French fries, or "frites" as they are known in France and Belgium, are one of the most beloved and ubiquitous side dishes in the world.

While the origins of French fries are often debated, with both France and Belgium claiming to have invented them, there is no dispute about their global popularity.

Let's explore some of the most famous restaurants around the world that have elevated the humble French fry into a culinary masterpiece.

1. Maison Antoine – Brussels, Belgium

When it comes to French fries, Belgium is often considered the gold standard. Maison Antoine, located in the heart of Brussels, is a legendary establishment that has been serving fries since 1948. Known for their double-frying technique, which creates a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, Maison Antoine's fries are a must-try for any fry enthusiast. The fries are traditionally served in a paper cone with a variety of sauces on the side, including the classic mayonnaise, ketchup, and more exotic options like andalouse and curry ketchup.

2. Pommes Frites – New York City, USA

Pommes Frites in New York City offers an authentic Belgian fry experience right in the heart of the Big Apple. This small, cozy eatery specializes exclusively in fries, making them the star of the show. The fries are hand-cut, double-fried, and served with a selection of over 30 dipping sauces, ranging from traditional options like aioli to unique flavors like wasabi mayo and peanut satay. The dedication to quality and authenticity has made Pommes Frites a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

3. Bintje – Paris, France

Located in the chic 9th arrondissement of Paris, Bintje is a restaurant dedicated entirely to the art of the French fry. Named after the Bintje potato, a variety particularly well-suited for frying, this Parisian gem offers a gourmet fry experience. The fries are cooked to perfection and served with a variety of house-made sauces. Bintje takes the humble fry to new heights, offering toppings such as truffle oil, Parmesan, and even foie gras for an indulgent treat.

4. Frietmuseum – Bruges, Belgium

While not a traditional restaurant, the Frietmuseum in Bruges deserves a mention for its dedication to the history and culture of the French fry. As the world’s only museum dedicated to fries, it offers a unique experience where visitors can learn about the origins of fries, their preparation, and their global journey. At the end of the tour, visitors can enjoy a serving of freshly cooked fries from the museum’s café, making it a must-visit for any fry aficionado.

5. The Original Hot Dog Shop – Pittsburgh, USA

Affectionately known as “The O” by locals, The Original Hot Dog Shop in Pittsburgh is famous not only for its hot dogs but also for its massive servings of French fries. Opened in 1960, this iconic eatery has been serving heaping portions of thick-cut fries that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The fries are served in quantities so large that they often spill out of their containers, making them perfect for sharing (or not!). The O’s fries are legendary in the Pittsburgh area and are often cited as some of the best in the United States.

6. Fritland – Brussels, Belgium

Another Brussels gem, Fritland is a must-visit for any French fry lover. Located near the Grand Place, this iconic fry stand has been serving up delicious fries for decades. Fritland's fries are known for their golden color, perfect crunch, and rich potato flavor. The line at Fritland is often long, but the wait is well worth it. Be sure to try the fries with the local specialty sauce, “samurai,” a spicy mayo-based sauce that adds an extra kick to the fries.

7. Max’s Restaurant – Manila, Philippines

Max’s Restaurant, a popular chain in the Philippines, is known for its fried chicken, but its French fries have also gained a loyal following. Max’s fries are thin, crispy, and often served with a side of banana ketchup, a sweet and tangy condiment unique to the Philippines. The combination of Max’s flavorful fries and its signature ketchup offers a distinctive take on the classic fry experience.

8. La Petite Maison – Nice, France

Located in the sunny city of Nice on the French Riviera, La Petite Maison is a chic eatery known for its Mediterranean cuisine. Among its many offerings, the restaurant's French fries stand out as a highlight. These fries are thin, crispy, and perfectly seasoned, making them an ideal accompaniment to the restaurant's array of seafood dishes. The fries at La Petite Maison are a testament to the French ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

French fries are a universal comfort food, enjoyed by millions across the globe. These famous restaurants have taken the classic fry and turned it into something truly special, offering unique flavors, techniques, and presentations that celebrate the simple yet satisfying pleasure of French fries. Whether you prefer your fries thick or thin, with ketchup or aioli, there’s a perfect plate of fries waiting for you at one of these iconic eateries. So, next time you’re craving fries, consider embarking on a culinary journey to one of these renowned establishments and indulge in the world’s favorite side dish.