Brussels South Charleroi Airport

Charleroi Airport is a no-frills operation, and the dining scene reflects that honestly rather than apologetically. The main airside area beyond security houses a handful of cafés and grab-and-go counters, with the most reliable being the Exki outlet, a Belgian chain beloved for its fresh salads, warm soups, and decent sandwiches made with real ingredients. It's the kind of place where you can eat something genuinely wholesome without overthinking it, which is exactly what you want before a flight.

For a taste of Belgium proper, keep an eye out for the waffle and chocolate kiosks scattered through the departure hall. Belgian waffles here are the Liège variety — dense, caramelised, and utterly satisfying — rather than the tourist-trap Brussels style you'd find elsewhere. A few spots also stock Côte d'Or and Neuhaus chocolates, so last-minute gifting is entirely sorted. The brasserie-style café near the central seating area pulls a decent Leffe or Jupiler on draught, which frankly feels like the right send-off from Belgian soil.

Manage your expectations and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Charleroi isn't trying to be a culinary destination, but it does enough right to keep you comfortable. Arrive a little hungry and grab a croque-monsieur or a warm tartine at one of the counter bars — simple, buttery, deeply satisfying. Coffee is reliably strong and espresso-forward, as it tends to be across Belgium, so you won't be suffering through weak filter brew before your early departure. Time it right and the airport does its job just fine.