Comfortable Holiday Home With Private Terrace

The Corman brothers have been at the helm of this vintage looking restaurant for over 25 years. In the Absinthe bistro, the accent is on soul-warming fare such as Chimay-flavoured cheese fritters, duck cassoulet and veal stew. We also recommend the Bib Gourmand menu that is more polished, but equally Gallic in leaning. For example, the chef might pair salmon marinated in herbs with different textures of red beetroot, green apple, a gherkin mousse and a few dabs of balsamic vinegar. This delicate feast can be washed down with one of the fine bottles that come from the next-door wine shop. To fi

In this charming inn on the edge of the forest, the Basque Country – where the chef is from – meets fine produce from the Ardennes. The result is delicious, skilfully made dishes, such as piquillo peppers stuffed with cod brandade and fish soup, or lamb confit with piperade. Generous and indulgent cuisine awaits!

Whether you prefer classic cuisine or something more creative, Loïc Pierard has it covered with his à la carte menu. Whatever you choose, his dishes are built on high-quality (often local) ingredients and precise cooking techniques. Al dente spaghetti in a rich and creamy sea urchin sauce, paired with a spicy langoustine tartare, or barbecued monkfish with crunchy vegetables and an indulgent Choron sauce – the depth of flavour in these dishes is second to none. The charming blend of historical and vintage decor is also sure to impress. Contre Façon is the real deal.

This characterful establishment in the picturesque village of Thuillies has become a beacon for all self-respecting fans of traditional nosh. A soundtrack of French ballads, an attractive wooden counter and vintage posters on the walls set the nostalgic scene indoors. The menu stars a patriotic lineup of Belgian staples including vol-au-vent of crunchy sweetbread and fresh fries, juicy kidneys and a dessert of French toast that is the ultimate comfort food. Wholehearted, much-loved family cooking oozing in bountiful generosity and fantastic flavours. We recommend the specials chalked up on the

Fanny and Jérôme bend over backwards to nurture the warm cosy vibe of their establishment, which also offers a few convenient guestrooms. Fanny’s indefectible good cheer and Jérôme’s infectious enthusiasm in his open kitchen set the stage for this culinary performance. The chef shines the spotlight on regional and local producers, with a weakness for veggies. He adds a modern twist to recipes that pay tribute to the region’s traditions and generous character. For example, he might pair slowly cooked lobster with cucumber perfumed in sesame seeds, a buttery sauce of subtle wasabi nuances and a

Sophie in the dining room and Steven in the kitchen are at the helm of Bagù and are responsible for its enchanting home-from-home vibe. Bistronomic fare with a French accent sets the culinary scene, albeit with the odd Italian twang from time to time. A succulent crunchy fritter and unctuous vol-au-vent of pork might be jazzed up with a puntarella (type of chicory) salad, seasoned with anchovy vinegar. The chef has a knack for blending rich, refined flavours without falling into the trap of superfluous complexity. Create your own menu from the à la carte lineup – you won’t be disappointed!

A meal in this attractive eatery, amusingly adorned with a collection of hens, followed by a restful night in one of the guestrooms of the bustling country inn, are just the ticket to get better acquainted with the picturesque Semois valley. The chef is an unabashed fan of tradition and his region, as the menu demonstrates. How about Clamart pigeon in a gutsy gravy made from the bones? Or what about a fresh salad of lobster tail paired with velvety foie gras, grey shrimp and a herby dressing? Blatantly and indulgently generous to the delight of lovers of down to earth, rustic fare. You can’t g