Food lovers, coffee junkies, locals or newcomers — discover the spots worth lining up for in beautiful Brussels. As a cosmopolitan cradle of a culture shaped through various influences, Brussels could be described by its citizens as a ‘zinneke,’ i.e. a person or animal from mixed roots. Despite its size, do not assume Belgium is lacking in terms of culinary treats. Here are 10 of the best and most unique food joints to visit when in the city.
Tram Experience
This success story started in 2012 and has since become a Brussels classic due to its unique gastronomic experience that includes a two-hour tram ride by night. The Tram experience relies on luxury and quality cookery that is situated in a fast-paced and trendy environment. This year, the organization altered its usual selection to recognize women in the culinary profession, with a six-course menu that promises to satisfy the finest palates.
Contact details on place of departure: boxoffice@visitbrussels.be
A saloon dedicated to French artistic culture that is unusual enough to be interesting but not considered freaky —welcome to the world of Goupil Le Fol. Guests can enjoy French music while taking in the vast number of paintings, sculptures and unexpected objects decorating the interior. At the crossroads of a museum and a trendy bar, this venue is definitely a cultural experience you won’t want to miss.
La Cantina
La Cantina is like a direct ticket to Brazil — with its bright atmosphere and flavorful food and aromas, you’ll forget you’re still in Brussels. They offer table service at dinner, but during lunchtime, you can select a number of different foods and pay for your meal based on the plate’s weight. Whether you opt for a quick meal or a variety of dishes, La Cantina offers a full package that makes for a great culinary experience.
Located near Brussels University, this establishment is known for its wide selection of drinks and daily two-hour happy hour. The back of the building leads to a quaint terrace – a little piece of heaven, especially during those rare sunny days when you’re in the mood for a chill outdoor atmosphere. Waff is the place to go when looking for a bit of fresh air and a delicious cocktail.
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Kokob
Mixing the simplicity of a trendy design with typical African decorations, at Kokob eating with your hands will be as close to noble as a complete ‘back-to-nature’ change of scene. Enjoy listening to an ambient concert while trying out the Ethiopian culinary delicacies on offer.
Bonnefooi
Psychedelic, musical, dark and traditional are all terms to describe Bonnefooi’s identity. Add to that a vibrant music playlist that will transport you to one of those endless summer nights, a photo booth at the entrance, and a second floor with an indoor balcony filled with couches and vintage wallpaper and you’ve got yourself the perfect late night haunt. Don’t take our word for it, go and experience what a late night at Bonnefooi is like.
La Maison Du Peuple
For your morning breakfast, hangover brunch, lunch, dinner or going-out mood, La Maison Du Peuple is one of those places that make you feel at home.Whether you are alone with your computer or in the company of your friends, Maion Du Peuple could soon become your second home.
Le Loft does not feel like picking a label between being a restaurant and an after work trendy bar, and we are certainly not going to complain about it. With its ‘happy hour’ from 6-8pm and Wednesdays dedicated to gathering the expat community in Brussels, dressing up might not be optional, but your cocktail selection most definitely is.
Les Super Filles Du Tram
Restaurant, Pub Grub, Vegetarian, American
Les Super Filles Du Tram is the result of a surprising collaboration between two women who were both willing to balance a full time career with full time motherhood. This lovely cafe and outside garden is a relaxing spot to go for brunch, a homemade burger and salad. If you are looking for a place to relax that also tailors its menu to your needs, this place should definitely be on your list.
This is a bar scene that defines the Brussels lifestyle as much as ‘Manneken Pis’ himself. Situated near Ixelles’ ponds and the Flagey square, once you enter Café Belga, you should be ready to expect the unexpected – from students, Eurocrats, employees or celebrities, you never know who will show up here. Stylish but not over the top, popular but not too crowded, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to try out this classic Brussels bar.
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