Behind the organized shelves and colorful displays, you will find Alice Chen, the shop manager of this family-run Asian supermarket and a passionate food lover with a clear vision: bringing people together through food.  

In Leuven, food markets often do more than stock ingredients – they carry memories, traditions, and stories from home. Al Taj and Mediterranee Markt are two shops bringing Middle Eastern flavors to the city, offering everything from fresh produce to cultural staples.

Julio and Koula are the intercultural couple behind Griekse Deli. He is originally from Cuba, and she is from Greece, specifically Laconia in the south of the Peloponnese. One thing is certain to them: Belgians have a strong love for Greek food – a love they are happy to share with the community.  

Have you ever gone out to eat at a restaurant and thought to yourself: “If I had these ingredients, I could cook like this at home”? You have the chance to test if that could be true with Gigi, the Italian delicatessen store right across the street from the restaurant Zoff.

For decades, Thai House has been a familiar name in Leuven’s food scene. What started as the city’s first Thai restaurant has grown into a beloved spot that blends tradition with convenience. Today, it continues to serve authentic flavors while staying true to its roots.

In the heart of Leuven, Bethlehem Supermarket offers a journey through the flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean. Behind it all is Marwan, who has quickly turned the shop into a beloved addition to the neighborhood.

Juliet hasn't always loved food, but from early years spent helping in the kitchen, to extravagant meals cooked with friends at university, it has become her go-to way of getting to know others and building friendships. Whether it's simply over a pot of tea and a biscuit, or a meal that got out of hand with too many dishes, it's a way she loves to connect with others.

Far from home, a familiar taste can mean everything. In Leuven, food has become a way for people from all over the world to reconnect with their roots - and with each other. What began as Aishwarya’s search for the flavours of India has grown into the Leuven Cooking Club: a vibrant community where recipes, cultures and friendships are shared around one table.

Núria has never been the kind of person who loves cooking - in fact, she’d probably rather leave that to someone else. But what she does love is what comes after: gathering around the table, sharing stories, laughing too loudly, and staying for hours. Through aperitivo and sobremesa, her story reveals why, in Spain, the table is where life happens.