A number of Belgian-based Italian restaurants have made a name for themselves in renowned international competitions.
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At the 50 Top Italy ceremony held in Milan that ranks the 50 best Italian restaurants in Italy and beyond, four Belgian eateries were selected for a spot on the 2026 list.
Just like last year, the Senzanome gourmet restaurant in Brussels' Sablon district retained its 15th place, as did Antwerp-based Materia, in 38th.
Two other establishments showcasing Italian gastronomy also featured in this year's rankings. Mona Lisa, located in Yvoir, near Namur, was placed 42nd, and the Brussels-based Racines restaurant entered the rankings in 49th place.
For those wishing to discover the competition's top 3 restaurants, they'd have to visit DaNico (3rd) in Toronto (Canada), Il Carpaccio (2nd) in Paris and Ristorante Hotel Cipriani (1st) in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).
Belgium's pizzerias also appear to be popular with Italian taste buds.
At the European Pizza Show, a prestigious competition held in London, a small pizzeria in Brussels was awarded the title of "Best European Pizza Maker" in the contemporary category. Biga, a small pizzeria based in Schaerbeek, won over the jury with its dough made from ancient grains and wholemeal flours, matured for long periods to reveal their finesse.
Meanwhile, GIGI Pizza in the Liège region won the prize for best pizzeria in Belgium at the World Pizza Championships held in Italy, which brought together over 850 competitors.
It's clear that Belgium's culinary expertise extends to more than just fries!
