Best Soda City Vendor: Belgian Waffle Truck

The Belgian Waffle Truck has been a Soda City staple since 2014 — so winning Best Soda City Vendor for the fifth year in a row doesn’t come as much of a surprise.

Originally from Liege, Belgium, the owners, Chef Jean-Louis and Yvette Ledent, have brought authentic Belgian waffles to Columbia. Their waffles, made from scratch, are a chewy, fresh staple for everyone. Whether you like your waffle topped with fruit, extra pearl sugar or chocolate, the Belgian Waffle Truck will give you a taste of Belgium. “Fluffy and thick yeasty waffles are very popular in Liege, our hometown,” Jean-Louis said. “People there eat a waffle at any time of the day, from little shops along the streets, where they cook your waffle from scratch.” 

Jean-Louis and Yvette wanted to recreate that atmosphere and culture within Columbia, and the Belgian Waffle Truck was the way to do it. “Quality, consistency, good service, authenticity are our most important priorities in our business,” Jean-Louis said.

The Belgian Waffle Truck serves a variety of freshly made and authentic waffles to the students of USC and the people of Columbia who support the business. 

They serve more than just traditional waffles. You can also order Sandwich Waffles, which come with your choice of protein, cheese and topping like gravy or bacon. 

The plain warm waffle is Yvette’s favorite menu item and also happens to be “the way most people like them in Belgium.” However, their most popular menu items are the Strawbwaffle and The Breakfast Waffle.

The Strawbwaffle is a warm waffle topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It is a signature menu item that can be topped with Nutella for $0.50. 

The Breakfast Waffle is a savory version of the waffle, which includes a pork patty, fried egg and white gravy.

If you want something simple, you can grab a “Sweet,” which is their authentic pearl sugar Liege Waffle. These can be topped with whipped cream, Nutella, warm chocolate, peanut butter or homemade caramel for just $0.50. 

With their most expensive item being just $10, the Belgian Waffle Truck offers everyone an inexpensive taste of the authentic Belgian sweet treat. Being located in Columbia makes the prices of their items reasonable and affordable. 

“Our prices are based on the fact that we are able to keep our food cost low by preparing most of the items ourselves and, of course, on the quality of waffles we sell,” Jean-Louis said.

After being a Soda City staple for almost 10 years, all Columbia residents should try the Belgian Waffle Truck.

“If you want to taste a delicious, unique and authentic Belgian delicacy served with a big smile at an affordable price, then come try The Belgian Waffle Truck!” Jean-Louis said.