Over time, it has grown into a global food celebration, with cafés, home kitchens, and restaurants marking the day with fresh batches of waffles in countless styles.

Across countries, the ways of celebrating may differ, but the idea remains simple—enjoying waffles in all their forms. In the United States, it often means thick waffles served with butter and maple syrup for breakfast. In parts of Europe, waffles are treated as a snack or dessert, topped with fruits, whipped cream, or chocolate.

But when it comes to waffles, all roads eventually lead to Belgium.

Brussels vs Liège: Belgian Embassy Brings the Debate to New Delhi

In Belgium, waffles are more than just a treat—they are a matter of identity. For decades, the cities of Brussels and Liège have been engaged in a friendly but firm rivalry over whose waffle reigns supreme. Ask a local, and you are likely to get a passionate answer—though not the same one every time.

This long-standing debate recently found a playful echo in India. The Embassy of Belgium in New Delhi conducted a public poll, asking people to choose their favourite between the two iconic styles.

The result? A near-perfect split, with no clear winner—proving that the waffle divide travels far beyond Belgian borders.

Two Waffles, Two Personalities

The Liège waffle is often described as indulgent and comforting. Made with a richer dough, it is soft on the inside and slightly caramelised on the outside, thanks to chunks of Belgian pearl sugar that melt during cooking.

It is typically enjoyed warm, sometimes without any toppings, as the sweetness is already built into the waffle itself. While widely loved in Belgium, this version is still relatively rare in India, making it something of a hidden gem for waffle enthusiasts.

The Brussels waffle, on the other hand, offers a lighter and crispier experience. Rectangular in shape with deeper pockets, it has a delicate crunch and is less sweet by itself. Traditionally, it is served plain or with a light dusting of icing sugar, though it also pairs well with fruits, cream, or chocolate.

Its airy texture and versatility have made it more commonly available in international cafés, including those in India.

Photo: Unsplash

A Celebration Without a Winner

On International Waffle Day, the Brussels–Liège debate remains as lively as ever—but perhaps that is part of the charm. Rather than settling on a single “best” waffle, the day celebrates the diversity of taste and tradition that waffles represent.

Whether it is the soft sweetness of Liège or the crisp elegance of Brussels, there is no wrong choice—only different ways to enjoy a timeless favourite.