Friture René isn’t exactly a friterie. And René, who founded the place in 1932, actually passed on a while ago. Yet visiting Friture René with its red-and-white checkered tablecloths and classic wooden bar accompanied by red leather stools, does feel like a trip down memory lane. Owner and chef Dirk Polion has made a name for himself, cooking up mouthwatering traditional Flemish dishes in a restaurant that breathes authenticity at every turn.
Friture René, Place de la Résistance 14, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 523 28 76
A way off from the center of Anderlecht, I Panciuti is the kind of place that’s packed on weekend evenings because of its regulars and good word of mouth. Let the relaxing and warm Italian atmosphere envelop you as you wait a little while longer than usual, eventually assessing the fresh pasta al dente to be well worth your time.
I Panciuti, Rue des Vétérinaires 93, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 520 77 85
Contrary to what its name might have you believe, meat lovers aren’t the only ones getting theirs at BarBQ Café. Vegetarians will leave equally content having feasted on one of the restaurant’s signature big helpings, often after enjoying a round of the boisterous laughter frequently emanating from the brasserie.
BarBQ, Square de l’Aviation 21, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 524 56 66
Few would expect that the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium has more to boast about than the success of its acclaimed soccer team. Even so, a fine French dining experience awaits the Burgundian inside this massive building as it houses restaurant Saint-Guidon, whose elegant and private dining chambers are a far cry from the shouting matches between soccer supporters during game time.
Saint-Guidon, Avenue Théo Verbeeck 2, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 520 55 36
Belgium is hardly overflowing with decent places to get traditional Greek food. Therefore Le Parthénon, a restaurant whose title and imposing interior leave little doubt as to its origins, is even more of an Anderlecht find. Perfect for those craving Greek specialties and who are happy to dine amid monumental statues of the ancient Gods.
Le Parthénon, Chaussée de Ninove 303, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 410 99 28
Concert au restaurant parthenon avec Mr. Epolo! #concert #epolo #music #onymangebien #brendaoulalaaa A photo posted by Barra Johan (@barrajohan) on
Specializing in seasonal and local dishes, In Den Appelboom offers up the ideal comfort food to hikers streaming in from a chilly walk in the green area of the Anderlecht Neerpede. The old farm with a 1900s interior (think red velvet wallpaper and golden chandelier) has only increased in charm throughout the decades, giving visitors a real feel for the Belgian countryside while still technically in the metropolitan city of Brussels.
In Den Appelboom, Rue du Pommier 401, Brussels, Belgium, + 32 2 520 73 03
Often described as something between a snack bar and a full-on brasserie, the unpretentious Le Nouveau Matin has been an Anderlecht lunch staple for over 18 years, with a steady stream of loyal customers. If you’re short on time, Chef Marc also takes orders to prepare by a specific time.
Le Nouveau Matin, Route de Lennik 806, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 527 55 40
A sandwich shop devoted to healthy eating, I Love Food della mamma does indeed cherish a love for everything mother nature has to offer. They prefer to keep it simple and let the flavorful ingredients do the talking instead. Their organic bread, homemade soups and artisanal desserts can be taken out as well, making sure you have the option to treat yourself to a healthy and fresh meal during your precious lunch hour.
I Love Food della mamma, Rue Eloy 12, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 527 93 97