The story
Jolly Sailor in Oostende specializes in Belgian bistro cooking along the historic waterfront. Owner Muriel Teetaert manages the floor while chef Hilde Defurne oversees every preparation in the open kitchen. This steady commitment to honest plating secured a place on the 2026 Le Fooding list. Critics noted how the team balances speed with precision during busy lunch services. Guests simply pass the bright white facade and azure awning to find a dining room that prioritizes flavor over decoration.
Golden fried cod tail arrives alongside crisp fries and a thick layer of homemade tartar sauce. The kitchen treats this Belgian bistro staple as a daily benchmark, adjusting batter thickness to maintain crunch. Grey shrimp croquettes offer a dense river of seasoned meat that pairs well with light green salads. Skate wings rest in melted brown butter beside whipped potatoes, while sautéed sole fillets provide a cleaner finish. Every meal concludes with a dense chocolate mousse that tastes like it came from a family pantry.
Reaching the dining room requires a short boat ride along the west bank of Oostende. Passengers watch the harbor slip away until the vessel docks near the restaurant entrance. The interior opens directly onto the quay, letting salt air mix with frying butter and toasted bread. Wooden tables sit close together, creating a lively pace that matches the rolling tides outside. Guests return year after year because the short crossing saves time and sets a relaxed tone.
Recognition
