There’s an old saying that Belgian food is served in the quantity of German cuisine, but with the quality of French cuisine. So when you dine at Buster’s, Sanford’s Euro-chic restaurant and bar specializing in Belgian cuisine, prepare to get more than you paid for…and then some.
First things first, Buster’s wouldn’t be a proper Belgian restaurant without that double-fried staple, Frites, the crispy, crunchy fries beloved by European palates…and Floridians, too! Contrary to popular belief, French fries as we know them aren’t actually French-the story goes that American soldiers stationed in the French-speaking region of Belgium during World War II initially believed they were in France, which is why North America still calls them “French fries” to this day. (There’s another theory that this name may be due to “frenching” the potatoes, or slicing them thinly, but I digress…) The only thing Belgians love more than their frites, of course, are the toppings, which can mean anything from mayonnaise to even mussels. But don’t worry, Buster’s has both American favorites and adventurous options alike on their appetizer menu; you can get your frites plain, with Truffles, Poutine (gravy and cheese curd topping), or if you’re feeling particularly Belgian, mayonnaise and curry.
Besides frites (although you’d be forgiven for putting the review down right here), the appetizer menu at Buster’s ranges from Steak Tips to nachos to some of the best Kettle-Roasted Brussels Sprouts you’ll ever try. That’s right. Set aside any unpleasant Thanksgiving memories and dig in-these fresh Brussels sprouts are coated with aioli and a crispy Parmesan that’ll just about rewrite the book on eating your greens. And if you balked at the “besides frites” line, your best bet is the poutine. Although poutine may not be Belgian, the twice-fried frites your curds and gravy will be served on most indubitably are-so you’re in for a treat.
While Buster’s more than delivers on quality, what about quantity? Budget-conscious diners, Buster’s happy hour menu is for you. It may read “appetizers”, but $5 to $7 can get you a veritable meal for two people (or one, depending on your appetite of course) out of one plate of food. There’s a reason Belgian food is said to have German quantity and French quality (as Belgium’s culture is a mix of Dutch, German, and French)-and you’ll know exactly what that means when you try the appetizers at Buster’s.
Nadia Bloom
Author, Artist, History Enthusiast
