The Ones We Keep Going Back To
A fire-driven South-East Asian grill tucked into Ixelles. Grilled meats, bold spices, natural wines and one of the best atmospheres in Brussels. Book ahead — it fills up fast.
A Brussels institution. Order at the counter, take a spot at a high table across the street and wait for your name to be called. Fresh seafood cooked simply and brilliantly — the shrimp croquettes and razor clams are unmissable. A glass of white wine is non-negotiable.
A Brussels institution on the Grand Sablon. Classic Belgian brasserie food done with real care — the filet américain was actually invented here. Sister restaurant Au Savoy is in Ixelles if you prefer something closer to home.
Proper Neapolitan pizza in a lively corner spot just off Châtelain. Wood-fired, generous and very good. One of the best Italian restaurants in Brussels and always busy for good reason.
The Finest of Their Kind
Some places do one thing and do it better than anyone else in the city. These are those places.
Arguably the best frites in Brussels. Queue, order, eat standing up. The service is famously gruff, which is very much part of the experience. Worth every second of the wait.
The best smash burger in the city, full stop. Black Angus beef smashed on a plancha, buttered potato bun, American cheese. Simple, unpretentious and absolutely worth the queue. Do not skip the loaded fries.
Korean comfort food done properly — bibimbap, fried chicken, kimchi and local craft beers. Friendly, relaxed and great value. The best Korean food in the city.
The first rule of Fight Club is that you tell everyone about Fight Club. Giant New York-style pizza slices, vermouth cocktails and Brussels craft beer in one of the coolest spots in Saint-Gilles. Order the pepperoni.
A Good Cup
One of the most distinctive cafes in Brussels. Nut butter infused coffees, beautiful pastries and an interior that is genuinely unlike anywhere else. The hazelnut mocha is the one.
One of the best specialty coffee spots in the city, with a rotating selection of beans and homemade pastries. The chocolate chip cookie is not to be missed. Beautifully designed and well worth a detour.
A Nice Night Out
A tiny, packed natural wine bar on Rue Lesbroussart that spills out onto the pavement most nights. Brilliant rotating guest chefs, great small plates and some of the most interesting wine in the city. No reservations — arrive early or be patient.
A cocktail bar and late night venue hidden beneath TheMerode mansion on Place Poelaert. Serious mixology, great music and one of the most interesting spaces in the city. Free entry before 10pm, reservation recommended.
A Brussels staple on Place Flagey — relaxed, unpretentious and perfect for a long evening with good beer and good company. The definition of a great cheap and cheerful night out.