FOOD: A Bite of Belgium in Boston [Harvard Square]

Let's take a minute to consider the Belgian waffle. That big, fluffy breakfast food that beats frozen waffles any day with its deep pockets perfect for storing butter and syrup. Now, forget that and consider actual waffles from Belgium, a somewhat different breed. What most in the US know as a Belgian waffle would be totally out of place in the streets of Brussels. But, close to one of the most-renowned universities in the world, you can get a thorough waffle education at Zinneken's in Harvard Square.
Started by two Belgium natives, the small waffle house aims to fill a waffle pocket in the US with traditional recipes from across the sea. Zinneken's serves up Liege waffles, made with a denser dough that incorporates pearl sugar for a caramelized finish, and Brussels waffles, crispy on the outside with a light, soft-as-a-cloud inside. Then there's the toppings; mix and match between whipped cream, fresh fruit, Belgian dark chocolate, Nutella, and Speculoos, or check out their menu for some favorite combos. For anyone that ever claimed a waffle wasn't a meal, Zinneken's is here to prove you wrong.
The petite establishment is peppered with Belgian paraphernalia, from Belgian flags to Tintin lunchboxes to several statues of a urinating boy (it's a confusing, kind of cute legend), but remains a sophisticated spot for a continental treat. Located just outside the bustle of Harvard Square with large windows in both seating areas and a full coffee bar, it's the perfect place for a decadent Sunday morning snack or anytime the waffle urge hits you. You might even, for a minute, forget you're in Boston.
Zinneken's
1154 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02138