Best restaurants in Pont-à-Celles

Le Chalet de la Forêt

★★ Michelin€€€€Creative, Modern French

Pascal Devalkeneer’s chalet is magnificently set on the edge of the Sonian Forest and the chalet’s terrace makes the most of this fantastic natural environment. The restaurant overlooking the chef’s cottage garden oozes luxurious elegance to which you should add well-oiled, slick service and, above all, chef Devalkeneer’s personal stamp on each dish. His blend of classicism and creativity reveals surgical precision, as well as a quest for subtlety and generosity. He scours the countryside of Belgium and France for the best ingredients from Aveyron lamb to abalone from the Brittany coast and ho

🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-14:00,19:00-21:00

Sir Kwinten

★★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine, French

Wine is central to Sir Kwinten, as you cannot fail but notice as soon as you cross the threshold of this imposing mansion. Flacons of wine are showcased in a display case, while Gueuze beer bottles escort you on your way to the restroom. Yannick Dehandschutter is a high-flying sommelier, who gets as much pleasure out of suggesting local beers and wine from the Dappeersveld estate as the production of a few daring winegrowers and even sakes. Now make your way upstairs to the elegant dining room, where wine also takes centre stage, thanks to food-wine matches made in heaven courtesy of a classic

La Paix

★★ Michelin€€€€french

A culinary landmark of Brussels dating back to 1892, La Paix was originally where the local butchers came for a bite to eat at the end of their working day. Chef David Martin has traded in the traditional brasserie score for a neoteric menu that is as impressive as the interior is lavish. La Paix now blends Brussels’ heritage with Japanese minimalism, embodied by a shimmering flock of origami birds suspended in flight from the ceiling and enhanced by soft lighting. This almost reverential setting provides the perfect foil for Martin and his team to add the final touch to their creations on the

Bozar Restaurant

★★ Michelin€€€€Modern French, Creative

Karen Torosyan is a genuine craftsman and an enthusiastic chef who, whilst respecting tradition, has developed his own culinary signature. In the company of his executive cheffe, Cassandre Ercolini, he raises ancestral culinary techniques to the rank of art. It is impossible not to be enthralled by his calm, high-precision gestures as he appropriates the mythical pâté en croûte and pithiviers recipe (by reservation only). This perfectionist seeks to communicate his emotions with each dish. His puff pastry creations are presented to the diner before going into the oven in this inclusive experie

d'Eugénie à Emilie

★★ Michelin€€€€Classic French, Traditional Cuisine

Éric Fernez inherited his love of cooking from his grand-mother, Eugénie, and he has passed on this passion to his daughter, Émilie. Premium produce, generous classical fare and the added dimension that wine can bring to a dish are the bedrock of this family’s values. Éric, a past master of old school cooking, crafts nostalgic food that reads like a culinary encyclopaedia. You can expect to sample traditional produce, like pigeon, pig’s trotters and sole (à la Fernand Point, no less!), courtesy of almost-forgotten recipes. The sauces are in a class of their own, illustrated by a consommé of be

L'air du temps

★★ Michelin€€€€Creative, Modern Cuisine

L'Air du Temps is in a world of all of its own and the square farmstead tucked away in the Namur countryside is a picture of present-day elegance. The stripped-back edifice blends in perfectly with the surrounding landscape and San Degeimbre’s immense cottage garden, where he finds much of his inspiration. A champion of the natural world, Degeimbre’s culinary repertory is coloured by his Korean roots. Fermentation and acidity are a common theme of his intricate recipes, as is his habit of serving each course in several small plates. For example, he may underscore Dieppe scallops with an intens

L'Eau Vive

★★ Michelin€€€€Modern French, Modern Cuisine

Imagine a romantic dinner on a lush green terrace with a stream and a waterfall softly burbling in the background! The dining room, refurbished in a trendy vein, and the chef’s table of this former 17C mill, also embody this idyllic portrait. Everything revolves around the diner in this establishment which is the epitome of friendly. The talent of Pierre Résimont shines through in a lineup of familiar flavours to which he adds an inventive spin characterised by delicate, generous craftsmanship. Examples include slices of lightly barbecued red tuna, served with a savoury shellfish seasoning and

Au Gré du Vent

★ Michelin€€€Farm to table

A meal at Au Gré du Vent offers a splendid opportunity to explore the magnificent Hainaut countryside. Stéphanie and Sébastien Thunus converted a former barn into a fantastic restaurant, whose floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a landscaped garden. The visitor is initially impressed by the venue’s elegance, before sinking into its all-embracing cosy cocoon. Chef Stéphanie Thunus is a perfectionist who aims to make each dish a work of art with a distinct fondness for local, seasonal produce, such as game from Ardennes. Her culinary creations are subtle, distinctive and generous and nothing leav

Maison Marit

★ Michelin€€€Classic French

Dimitri Marit represents the second generation of his family at the helm of the elegant Maison Marit, housed in a property brimming with character. The interior has been revamped with clean lines. The restaurant has its own sheep and deer, which can be seen grazing from the terrace. Foodies have been coming here since 1991 to savour classic French cuisine. Expertise and finesse are the hallmarks of this establishment, and nowhere is this more evident than in the rich, full-bodied sauces. When preparing his risotto, the chef removes some of the liquid and mixes it with a hearty poultry stock an

Philippe Meyers

★ Michelin€€€Modern French

Philippe and Valerie Meyers are sincere, warm-hearted folks, adjectives that also depict the interior design of their dinky eatery which showcases a magnificent collection of Michelin Guides. Valérie plays the role of hostess with great spontaneity and adores waxing lyrical about the chef’s passion for Walloon produce and his ability to tell a tale with just a few ingredients. Take for example his signature dish of speck, cooked for 17 hours, which he pairs with lemon-flavoured Eau de Villée, seared, still translucent langoustine tails and a gutsy sauce of hoisin and confit lemons. Alternative

Bistro Racine

★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine

Bistro Racine is proof that, contrary to popular belief, a MICHELIN star isn’t always about fancy fine dining. One immediately feels at home in this setting that mixes modern and authentic fixtures and fittings and in which the open kitchen plays the star role. Jimmy Collodoro regales diners with premium produce. The market-fresh, seasonal dishes, chalked up on a slate, change regularly, without forgetting firm fixtures, like beef grilled in a Mibrasa charcoal oven. The food is finely crafted and refreshingly straightforward. Unexpected details add a humorous twist, illustrated by a creamy ris

La Table-Lasne by Alain Bianchin

★ Michelin€€€€French, Creative French

Alain Bianchin is a genuine craftsman who sensitively blends his classical background with a modern outlook and a scattering of Asian-inspired influences. His versatility and delicacy are founded on textbook perfect technique and the kitchen is his playground. He may highlight the subtle harmony of tuna and foie gras with blood oranges and a jus of smoked oil and soy sauce, but he is also capable of executing melt-in-the-mouth, aromatic lamb flanked by Mediterranean sides and a gravy laced in Roscoff onions. The menu aims above all to allow premium ingredients to shout their name. The wine lis

Chai Gourmand

★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine

You can’t miss the Chai Gourmand (think ‘winery for foodies’), housed in a truly spectacular concrete, wood and glass architectural behemoth. Lush green countryside soothingly frames and underscores the warm, welcoming minimalist interior dotted with Scandinavian accents. A gifted cook, chef Pierre Massin unveils his know-how whilst managing to steer clear of fussy complexity and yet enable the modern appetising score to showcase his carefully controlled creative streak. He leaves his signature with just a few side dishes, for example, slow-baked whiting is coated in melt-in-the-mouth breadcru

l'Essentiel

★ Michelin€€€Creative French

A meal at l'Essentiel is an opportunity to explore an idyllic valley of the Namur countryside. A 17C tannery has been turned into an exquisite eatery dripping in cachet that boasts a romantic décor and a well-oiled front-of-house team. The establishment’s excellent value-for-money is another of its appeals. You should know that chef Raphaël Adam is nothing if not generous – you will have a choice of ten sorts of house-made bread, a huge cheese platter and a wickedly tempting lineup of fresh pastries to accompany your coffee at the end of the meal. Big-boned rich flavours are the hallmark if ch

La Villa in the Sky

★ Michelin€€€€french

Enter the IT Tower and take the lift up to the 23rd floor, before walking up two more flights of stairs. The unique view from this glazed Villa in the Sky commands a jaw-dropping vista over Brussels! The small open kitchen enables you to admire the precision of chef Alexandre Dionisio and his well-oiled team. The food is characterised by first-class produce underpinned by playful notes and subtle side dishes. Alexandre’s high-flying culinary skill is truly in the category of consummate. He may pair a juicy breast of quail and its crispy skin with shellfish for a briny note, a gutsy poultry sto

Kamo

★ Michelin€€€€japanese

Kamo is a slice of Tokyo in the heart of Ixelles. The wood-rich, pared back interior combines a contemporary feel with a serene vibe. From the bar you can witness firsthand the meticulous artistry of chef Kamo, who starts by inviting you to sample an appetiser to cleanse your palate. You are now all set to experience the finesse of Japanese culinary tradition. Chef Kamo's deceptively minimalist dishes showcase the extraordinary quality and freshness of his ingredients. He does not rely on luxury produce to wow his diners. Chazuke, a signature dish, consists of wafer-thin slices of seabream, en

l'Impératif d'Éole

★ Michelin€€€French Contemporary

While the impressive Chant d’Éole wine estate is particularly famous for its excellent sparkling wines, it offers much more than that. Namely a luxurious rooftop restaurant, where an ornamental gold-leafed tree and a glazed wine cellar immediately catch the eye. On your way into the restaurant, you will see the estate’s wines maturing in barrels. The wine list, which stars a few Belgian vintages, is perfectly paired with Benjamin Laborie’s cuisine. Laborie takes a fresh, new look at pedigree French recipes, founded on just a few ingredients that he savvily melds together. Flawlessly fresh fill

Humus x Hortense

★ Michelin€€€€Creative, Organic

Chef Nicolas Decloedt and Caroline Baerten, your hostess and sommelière, were championing plant-based cuisine long before it became trendy. Their sustainable ethos and creativity have been a source of inspiration for many, what’s more they publish a sustainability report that can be consulted online by all and sundry. We warrant that a meal in this stylish, street corner edifice, whose Art nouveau interior is adorned with frescoes of angels and gilded ceilings, will be an unforgettable experience. The micro-seasons are reverently respected thanks to close ties with botanist-farmer Dries Delano

🕐 Mo,Tu off; We 18:00-23:00; Th-Sa 12:00-14:30,18:00-23:00; Su off

Menssa

★ Michelin€€€€Creative, Organic

Take a seat at the undulating counter, beneath the striking carved wooden tree, a tribute to nature, and enjoy the show as you admire the handiwork of the painstaking kitchen team. Menssa offers an all-round global experience and Christophe Hardiquest endeavours to share his vision of sustainable gastronomy, respect for producers and nature with diners. The experienced chef harnesses his knowhow and inventiveness to promoting his region. His knack for pairing mushrooms with a subtle blend of bitter coffee, smoked and marinated egg yolk and a vegetable emulsion demonstrates both his ethos and c

Comme chez Soi

★ Michelin€€€€french

A meal at Comme chez Soi is like biting into a slice of gastronomic history. The emblematic Art nouveau Horta interior, appointed with stained glass and elegant details, is classy and characterful, while the wine cellar (Riwyne) offers a more contemporary “private dining” experience. The rich legacy of this establishment, founded in 1926, owes much to Pierre Wynants. The fourth generation, Laurence and Lionel Rigolet and their son Loïc, is now pursuing the story. Together they continue to serve the house’s signature dishes, like mousse of Ardennes ham or sole fillets in a creamy Riesling and s

Da Mimmo

★ Michelin€€€€Italian Contemporary

Da Mimmo is the epitome of Italian sophistication. As soon as you venture over the threshold of this stylish restaurant and meet the charismatic maître d', you know you are in good hands! Chef Louis Verstrepen and his team craft beautifully plated dishes that embody a creative approach to Italian culinary tradition, calling upon consummate technique and spot-on precision. The chef is not afraid to throw bold flavours together and uses diverse textures to forge unexpected notes. For example, he cooks guinea fowl to perfection so that it is succulent with crispy skin. Then he combines it with co

Eliane

★ Michelin€€€€fine_dining

Kobe Desramaults is on a permanent quest for renewal. This maverick chef, who hit the headlines at In De Wulf and Chambre Séparée, has begun a new adventure in the heart of Brussels. Eliane, which is named after his grandmother, exudes a smart lounge vibe. From the swish service and made-to-measure skillets to the open kitchen counter and funky soundtrack, chef Desramaults has fine-tuned every detail of his establishment.The food showcases Kobe’s creative streak and virtuoso technique. You can expect a festival of big-boned appetisers and dishes, in which he aims to highlight the essence and p

Agnes

★ Michelin€€€Modern French

Thomas Locus has restored this former presbytery in the picturesque streets around the church of Bodeghem-Saint-Martin whilst upholding its period character. Agnes fascinates by its casual charm and each detail bears witness to a sincere respect for traditional table arts, notwithstanding the odd modern touch. The lineup of outstanding ingredients is emblematic of this ethos: hop shoots, hare and Burgundy wines are showcased with love and passion.This is also true of the intense sauces and spot-on culinary technique, embodied by juicy turbot cooked on the bone and paired with a sauce choron th

Les Gourmands

★ Michelin€€€Classic Cuisine

Les Gourmands is run by foodies for foodies. The charming authentic interior is ideally suited to the classical fare of Didier Bernard, assisted by Lydia Glacé, who is in charge of the decadent desserts. The gifted duo, who were awarded their first Michelin star in 1996, are committed body and soul to celebrating premium produce. You may taste Burgaud duck, respectfully and delicately cooked to medium rare, flanked by a spicy duck gravy that is divinely paired with orange marmalade or a big-boned duck shepherd’s pie oozing with buttery flavours. Les Gourmands excels in the art of adding a cont

De Bakermat

★ Michelin€€€€Modern French

Leave busy Leopoldlaan behind you, venture over the threshold of this spruce white villa and bask in the charming welcome of Barbara and chef Kevin. The couple is proud of their stylish establishment, appointed in a more modern vein to the rear and which sports an eye-catching glazed wine cellar. Over the years, De Bakermat has become a firm fixture of Ninove’s culinary scene. The secret to good food resides in the quality of the ingredients, which isn’t as simple as it sounds. Chef Kevin not only sources top-drawer produce, like turbot, truffles and premium breeds of meat, such as Holstein, h

Attablez-vous

★ Michelin€€€Creative French, Modern French

Take a seat, as the restaurant’s name orders, and admire the ornamental tree that jazzes up the elegantly stylish contemporary interior, also home to an authentic cheese cave where all sorts of delicacies ripen slowly. Now let’s add attentive service and tips from the knowledgeable sommelier, who gets a kick out of suggesting unusual wines, and the scene is set. Chef Charles-Edouard Jeandrain mixes playful ideas with timeless classical flavours, conjuring up a fascinating repertory that demonstrates his respect for the ingredient and his quest for varied textures. He may prepare paella-style r

Pré de chez vous

★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine

Julien Malaisse pays frequent visits to the best Walloon producers, whose first-class ingredients he has been championing for eons. Meat from Sébastien Van Lommel and veg from market gardener, Régis, unveil all their nuances in the chef’s unorthodox cuisine. Malaisse takes the time to lovingly craft powerful sauces, lends a hand in the dining room and has a knack for concocting a wide range of varied yet coherent flavours by way of inventive side dishes. His apparently laid-back style demonstrates a weakness for floral notes and an ability to capture an ingredient’s vibrant essence. A few exam

't Stoveke

★ Michelin€€€french

Daniel Antuna and his wife Petra have been pampering their guests from the warm welcome on the doorstep to the final goodbye as they leave with a smile on their lips since 2005. An open kitchen ensures that you won’t miss any crumbs of the culinary show in this restaurant, which is also home to a chef’s table, where you will feel both at home and as if you are a VIP guest. Chef Antuna deploys state-of-the-art culinary techniques without betraying his classical training. His unique sense of flavour is superlatively enriched by Asian influences. For example, he may pair the delicacy of exception

🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-13:30,19:00-20:30; Tu,We off; Sa 19:00-20:30; Su 12:00-14:00

Atelier Noun

★ Michelin€€€Modern French, Fusion

You will immediately feel at home in Bert and Sandra’s workshop. No sooner are you over the threshold, than you are greeted by a warm, snug interior done up in soft colours. The venue’s serene Japanese vibe is framed by the view of the pretty garden and the splendid summer terrace. This calm extends to the plate, although the deceptive simplicity hides a fiercely structured technical composition.Chef Castermans pays a highly personal homage to the ingredient. Free of fussy frills, his food is uncluttered, occasionally complex and often dotted with sensitively balanced umami nuances that are hi

Le Beau Rivage by Curtis

★ Michelin€€€Modern French

Curtis Maquet has breathed a new lease of life into the Beau Rivage, a culinary landmark of Namur that is idyllically located on the banks of the Meuse. Relax in the stylish interior as you sample the repertory of a young chef who learned the ropes at the Table de Maxime. Delicate, expressive cuisine that revolves around the ingredient and is steeped in familiar, elegant and powerful flavours.The chef demonstrates his know-how with a breast of Miéral duck, cooked medium rare with a lovely crispy skin. This is flanked by a sweet, spicy Vadouvan jus and a medley of winter side dishes such as fin

Couvert Couvert

★ Michelin€€€€Creative, Modern Cuisine

Couvert Couvert is the ambitious story of Folmer and Folmer. Brothers Laurent and Vincent greet guests in a softly lit, airy venue of Scandinavian inspiration. The interior is stylish, the terrace peaceful and the service attentive, however the singularity of this restaurant resides in the brothers’ highly individual creative streak. Together they perform a culinary show of cutting-edge precision and strewn with daring. For example, they may pair a crispy skinned breast of guinea fowl with a warm salad of artichoke hearts, pistachio, sweet earthy vernal grass and hints of walnuts and hay, whil

EST

★ Michelin€€€€French

Chef Abel Demeestere and Laurence De Smet in charge of the front of house have chosen to write a chapter of their own in the illustrious story of the Arenberg house, whilst respecting its timeless traditions. The former Jesuit farmstead overlooking a garden and appointed in works of art is both smart and contemporary. The house classics continue to grace the à la carte menu in particular, exemplified by pork neck fillet.Chef Abdel cannot be rivalled for his skill with big-boned traditional fare, as his fascinating sauces and stocks bear witness, although he is not averse to slipping in the odd

Aux petits oignons

★ Michelin€€€Modern French, French

Every detail of Stéphane Lefebvre’s aptly named establishment has been endlessly fine-tuned, as the top-to-toe renovation demonstrates. Brightly welcoming, the contemporary interior mingles Scandinavian influences with discreet nods to the Seventies. The attentive table service and cosy vibe instantly make you feel at home. Chef Lefebvre has harnessed his creative talent in a bid to celebrate flavour and ingeniously balances a dish’s bitterness or acidity with a few well-judged side dishes. His attention to detail shines the spotlight on outstanding ingredients such as Piétrain pork and Ardenn

EED

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine, French Contemporary

EED is the epitome of minimalist. Philippe Heylen strips his dishes to retain only the most essential ingredients, so don’t expect fussy frills or superfluous fillers. The spotlight is on the quality of the produce and the veggie side dishes are as important as the main ingredient. Chef Heylen gets right down to business with lashings of originality. He manages to surprise us with familiar flavours, like a rib steak that is paired with Asian notes of sesame and caramelised honey. Or how about a yellow beetroot, coated in earthy tonburi, a sweet mango jelly and a kimchi of hispi cabbage? A subt

EssenCiel

★ Michelin€€€€Contemporary, Modern French

Established in a grand town house, EssenCiel is the lovingly created brainchild of youthful Niels Brants and Romina Charels. A smart contemporary style, mingling purity and elegance without losing sight of their casual hallmark vibe, sets the scene. A seat on the patio near the vegetable garden is heavenly in fine weather. Chef Brants rolls out the full gamut of his culinary know-how combined with a flair for unearthing fantastic ingredients. He avows a passion for vegetables and the intricate craftsmanship of his unorthodox recipes is part of his hallmark. Examples include a mind-blowing asso

Le Vieux Château

★ Michelin€€€Modern Cuisine

You will be conquered by Le Vieux Château and its drop-dead surroundings before you have even taken a seat. Once over the moat bridge and past the huge oak door, it is impossible not to fall in love with the interior which intelligently and tastefully marries authentic period details such as timber ceilings with a light, contemporary vibe, while the glazed extension commands unfettered views over the garden and countryside. Once you are comfortably seated, you can bask in the slick service and infinite creativity of chef Tanguy De Turck. The chef refuses to limit himself to a single style. The

Kelderman

★ Michelin€€€€Traditional Cuisine, Seafood

Charismatic Peter Van den Driesschen elegantly and effortlessly welcomes guests, thus setting the tone as he ushers you into a smart, fashionably pared-back dining room, bathed in light and hung with works of art, while overlooking a manicured garden. And that is only the beginning! Kelderman’s front-of-house team bends over backwards to make sure you lack for nothing as they spoil you rotten. Seafood enjoys the lead roles here, but meat-lovers needn’t fret as there is something for everyone. The chef allows the pure, unadulterated flavours of ingredients to shout their name rather than indulg

Le Camélia

★ Michelin€€Modern Cuisine

In this 19C château built in the brick and white stone that is typical in northern France, the spruce and welcoming decor charms with its blend of old and new: first, a cosy bar that leads on to a dining room flooded with light from the windows on two sides, and giving onto a wooded park. The à la carte menu features carefully selected ingredients and precise, flavourful cuisine, cooked to perfection. A whole lobster, shelled and roasted, is served pearly white in the middle: the tail firm and flavourful, the claws tender, with crunchy or melt-in-the-mouth vegetables, a fragrant sauce with her

Melchior

★ Michelin€€€€Modern French, Fusion

Melchior would be just the ticket for a fashion shoot. Old brick walls and high ceilings bear witness to the edifice’s historic legacy, while huge lamps and a Scandinavian interior design edge impart a trendy vibe, as does the graffiti on the terrace. It is here that Gilles Melchior showcases his high-flying skill and ability to fusion knife-edge Japanese techniques with classical finesse. The chef’s sauces, dressings and gravies are out of this world. A past master of traditional techniques, he knows just how to balance his creativity and is constantly broadening his culinary scope to incorpo

Vicomté

★ Michelin€€€Modern French

Vicomté begins to weave its magical date-night romanticism right from the first glimpse of the Arrondeau estate and castle, whose wrought-iron conservatory, elegant ornamentation and enchanting water feature bring to mind an Impressionist painting…. Quentin Gallopyn further enhances this appealing portrait with a culinary ode to premium produce.In addition to knife-edged precision, Gallopyn expresses a fondness for rich, fruity flavours and his distinctive cuisine is often strewn with bold touches. Examples include medium rare melt-in-the-mouth fillet of lamb paired with pumpkin and bitter bla

Tinèlle

★ Michelin€€€French Contemporary

The historic Het Predikheren served as a convent and military hospital from the 17C. Today it has morphed into a venue devoted to culture and fine dining. The left wing is home to this vibrant, modern eatery starring Jenny Callens in the unstarched, buzzy dining room, while veteran chef Ken Verschueren joyfully dusts the cobwebs off culinary tradition. Ideal to dig into Franco-Belgian grub, free of fussy, futile frills and at prices that make sense. It would be a crime to miss the lunchtime menu that changes daily. The chef demonstrates his love of fine produce, crafting dishes that bear witne

Centpourcent

★ Michelin€€€€Modern Cuisine

Veteran chef Axel Colonna-Cesari is at the summum of his art, and he and his charming wife, Anneleen, form a splendid team. Their contemporary establishment is a model of classy elegance, sporting soft colours and fashionable furnishings. Centpourcent is a blue-chip value, as is quickly apparent from the crowd of regulars. It is just the ticket for any occasion from a high-powered business lunch to a romantic dinner. Chef Colonna-Cesari’s consummate know-how and measured creativity can be tasted in light, exuberant cuisine, overflowing in fresh, delicately crafted flavours. Subtle nuances unde

La Grange d'Hamois

★ Michelin€€€Modern French, Classic French

Chef Grégory Gillain and your hostess, Hélène Fays, have set up shop in a barn that is over 150 years old. Ardennes materials such as local stone offset and enhance the modern decorative vein. Chef Gillain’s personal vision and love of regional produce have reached new heights here. A maestro of textbook techniques, his braised sweetbread has become one of the house signature dishes. However, his deep-seated understanding of the ingredient can also be tasted in recipes such as melt in the mouth confit of pork belly, served with bitter fresh kohlrabi, chanterelle mushrooms, dried cured ham and

Barge

★ Michelin€€€french, regional

Restaurant

il était une fois toi et moi

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine, Classic French

Looking for the perfect date night venue? Look no further! This restaurant ticks all the boxes, starting with the name! A shiny lounge vibe serves as the backdrop to an exciting culinary tale. The extensive à la carte menu, which you can compose at will, stars pedigree Gallic recipes and more contemporary creations. The food is both inspired and suave, yet remains reassuringly familiar. Impeccably cooked zander paired with an upside-down pie of Belgian endive in a gutsy thyme stock, followed by a knockout apple pie with thyme-flavoured ice cream and a dash of salted butter on the side. A quint

L'Entre D'Eux

Bib Gourmand€€French Contemporary

The restaurant of chef Caroline Druine and your master of ceremonies, Alexandre, is warm and inviting and exudes a lovely home-from-home feel. The small garden patio, near the pear trees, is ideal for alfresco summer dining. The culinary focus is on local produce, decadent flavours and painstaking craftswomanship. The chef may wrap a juicy ballotine of pheasant in a cabbage leaf, which she then stuffs with sweet chestnuts and pumpkin. A punchy cognac sauce and a few well-chosen side dishes add the finishing touch to this rich seasonal dish. The savvily curated wine list is definitely worth spe

dis-moi où ?

Bib Gourmand€€Modern French, Traditional Cuisine

Tell me where? Well, here! If you are looking for food that combines tradition and generosity, this upbeat eatery is the place for you (don’t forget to book). Chef Nicolas Michiels not only knows how to concoct good sauces and grill meat to perfection, he is also a dab hand at whipping up more elaborate recipes of great delicacy. He might mix a subtle quenelle of scallops and langoustine with a seafood jus, creating an exquisitely delicate balance. Choosing from the extensive menu may pose something of a conundrum. Why not try one of the excellent whiskeys suggested by the chef at the end of y

Maïnoï

Bib Gourmand€€Thai

Whilst refreshingly modern, Maïnoï nonetheless remains true to its traditional roots and the characteristic Thai interior creates a warm, welcoming vibe. The seasoned chef deftly crafts exuberant familiar flavours and cannot be rivalled for his way with sauces, as he peps up beef and vegetable side dishes with flair and talent. For example, his aromatic tom ka kai is a delicate blend of rich coconut milk with lemon grass, spicy pepper oil, juicy chicken and varied herbs. The bold, daring creative menu is a gold mine of pleasant surprises for the diner. We recommend the house signature dishes,

Vilain

Bib Gourmand€€Seasonal Cuisine

Vilain offers a choice of 10 to 15 small dishes to share that change weekly depending on what is available locally. Examples include carpaccio of red beetroot in a fruity shiso- and Japanese vinegar-laced dressing, or country pâté en croûte with gherkins and mustard. The accent is on uninhibited, intuitive cuisine, without forgetting the odd international influence. The wine list is a treasure trove of natural and organic tipples. The interior, which overlooks the garden, sports a fashionably upbeat vintage vibe, overflowing in good cheer with a jazzy soundtrack playing in the background.

Table et Vin

Bib Gourmand€€French

Shelves laden with innumerable wine bottles immediately catch the eye as you enter this inviting gourmet eatery-cum-wine cellar. Master sommelier Thierry Jacques welcomes you warmly before sharing the secrets of his lovingly curated selection. Next, chef Husson takes the stage, rolling out a spot-on, wholehearted repertory that is showcased in a set menu with a wide range of choices. Examples include melt-in-the-mouth pig's feet with a terrine of foie gras, lentils, a powerful stock and tarragon that adds an invigorating kick. Food from a bygone era, oozing with wholesome, big-boned flavours.

Cul de Poule

Bib Gourmand€€Modern French

A colourful, cartoon-inspired chicken adorns this small bistro, but the real draw is Arnaud Molle. This seasoned chef lets his creativity run riot in regularly changing menus. You may sample grilled stuffed quail or pheasant à la brabançonne (with bacon and endive). His score is flavoursome, original and geared towards showcasing fresh produce as he harnesses his culinary talents to enhancing each ingredient’s purity! The meat, from his parent’s butchery, is first class and the prices are truly eater friendly!

L'Embellie

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

Make your day that little bit better with a visit to this restaurant run by charming maître d' Géraldine and seasoned chef Pol. Grab a table at the front of the cosy dining space, or head to the back, where light pours in from the lovely garden – either way, you're in for a treat! When it comes to the quality of his ingredients, the chef refuses to compromise, a pursuit of excellence that is matched by his culinary expertise. This cuisine is incredibly generous, and it shows in every dish, from the rich foie gras terrine served with succulent pheasant to the rich miso jus that lends a subtle s

La Fermette des Pins

Bib Gourmand€€Classic Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine

“What you see is what you get” could well be the baseline of this lovely farmstead depicted by old oak rafters, bare brick walls and a terrace that makes the most of its idyllic rural setting. The seasoned chef has perfected the art of sourcing first-class local produce. Her eggs are perfectly cooked at exactly 62°C and garnished with a flavoursome espuma of mashed potato and crunchy chicory, unless you wouldn’t prefer a much-loved Belgian staple: steak, fresh fries and a pepper sauce? One thing is certain: everything here bears the hallmark of tradition. All that remains is to choose between

De Vous à Nous

Bib Gourmand€€Modern French

De Vous à Nous (From You to Us) sports a stylish interior, a lush green terrace to the rear and eater-friendly prices. Know-how and generosity are the defining traits of chef François Duvivier, who doesn’t hesitate to add a personal flourish to traditional recipes. Examples include pheasant fritters, glistening white cod stuffed with prawns and flanked by a powerful bisque or a Belle Hélène pear worth writing home about! The set menu with choices is first-rate, but if you’re in the mood for something exceptional, take a peek at the à la carte lineup which boasts items of the calibre of turbot

Wan Thai Food

Bib Gourmand€€Thai

A meal at Wan Thai Food is an education in just how irresistible authentic Thai cuisine can be. The decor featuring plenty of wood and bamboo, lanterns, Buddha statues and other Asian-inspired touches has a distinct street food feel. The extensive menu features all the classic dishes of the genre, freshly prepared by chef Wanna. Tempting options include handmade chicken gyoza served with an exquisite umami-rich soy sauce, as well as a rich fruity and spicy curry with perfectly seared scallops. The delicious sauces are definitely worth a mention! Why not add a refreshing cocktail to your order

Bagù

Bib Gourmand€€Seasonal Cuisine, French

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!

Monsieur V

Bib Gourmand€€Classic Cuisine

Jan Verhaert cooks what he likes to eat, which is nostalgic Gallic classics with the occasional nod to Italy. His cosy neighbourhood restaurant rolls out confident bistro fare of the likes of pâté en croûte or a succulent pithivier (pie) of pheasant, mushrooms and foie gras in a butter-rich puff pastry shell. And what about a decadent flaky pastry millefeuille with vanilla-rich crème pâtissière for dessert? The razor-sharp precision of the cooking and the chef's penchant for gutsy flavours are truly noteworthy. A champion of French culinary tradition, Monsieur Verhaert delivers exceptional foo

La Branche d'Olivier

Bib Gourmand€€french

With its old tiled floor and leather seats, patinated woodwork, plus the peaceful terrace overlooking Kinsendaal Nature Reserve, this charming bistro is full of character. The many regulars come here to feast on classics such as foie gras maison, cod fillet in a chorizo crust with a saffron white wine sauce, and chocolate mousse for dessert. It is not without good reason that chef Demurger is hailed as a great sauce maker and rôtisseur. This Bib Gourmand restaurant is all about craftsmanship and generosity.

🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-14:30, 19:00-23:00; Sa 19:00-23:00

La Petite Gayole

Bib Gourmand€€Traditional Cuisine, French

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

Au repos de la montagne

Bib Gourmand€€Traditional Cuisine

From the black and white floor tiles and bistro chairs to the enamel signs that adorn the walls, this buzzy neighbourhood bistro oozes character. What’s more, the slate menu (more concise lineup at lunchtime) will set your tastebuds drooling: melt-in-the-mouth country pâté of wild duck with fresh green peppers or stew simmered lovingly in a rich brown sauce and served with piping hot fresh fries. The predominantly Gallic score is rolled out playfully, as are the vegetarian dishes, and every bite is followed by a wallop of gusto. Splendid lineup of local beers and natural wines. Ideal for a hea

🕐 Tu-Th 18:30-23:00; Fr-Sa 12:00-14:30, 18:30-23:00

La Table du Boucher

Bib Gourmand€€Meats and Grills, Classic French

Luc Broutard avows a passion for top quality produce, red meat in particular, as you will immediately realise when you enter this buzzy brasserie. In a monumental interior that sports a painted wooden ceiling, the chef deftly rolls out spot-on, heart-warming, honest fare. The extensive menu leaves no doubt as to his weaknesses: tartare of Montbéliard beef, carpaccio of Jersey beef, Argentinean rib steak, Black Angus hanger steak or veal kidneys in mustard sauce… Carnivores will be in seventh heaven! The wine cellar is perfectly suited to the menu and vibe of this vibrant brasserie –a feel-good

Stone Dial

Bib Gourmand€€Chinese Contemporary

This venue is in a class of its own. Located on the Crabbegat path in the oldest building of Uccle, this slightly mysterious restaurant mingles vintage details, like the wooden ceiling and old wood-burning stove, with a subtle Chinese spin. You will find a jaw-dropping lineup of traditional delicacies in colourful, indulgent dishes. Succulent spring rolls stuffed with poultry and caramelised onions, noodles tossed with crunchy veg and Peking duck to die for… Authentic flavours that will set your tastebuds tingling showcased in a menu that is as varied as it is enticing.

Babam

Bib Gourmand€€fine_dining

Babam is the sort of neighbourhood restaurant next-door to which we would all like to live. Bistronomic cuisine is second nature to the youthful team of chefs, who all trained in top establishments. They might prepare shrimp fritters with textbook precision, flanked by a yuzu jelly and a light bisque. Alternatively, they might jazz up a wing of poached skate with an exciting contrasting touch of fresh acidity. Their crème brûlée dessert is to die for. Whether you pop in for lunch (concise menu) or the full works in the evening, we warrant you will wish you could take out a monthly subscription

🕐 Mo-Fr 19:00-23:00; We-Fr 12:00-14:00; PH off

Car Bon

Bib Gourmand€chinese

Don’t be fooled by the cliché of a tightly packed dinky neighbourhood eatery, a never-ending menu and a mainly Asian clientele, because Car Bon has plenty of other succulent appeals up its sleeve. The food is authentic, with a focus on the Sichuan region. Examples include a wonton of minced meat and langoustines in a spicy, highly aromatic stock, or a slowly cooked aubergine in a highly addictive yuxiang sauce. Gutsy, light and assertive all at once: Chinese cuisine that hits the spot every time. Don’t forget to book!

🕐 Mo-Su 12:00-14:30,18:00-22:00

Lune Siamoise

Bib Gourmand€€thai

The spicy scent of lime leaves and curry tantalises your nostrils as you enter this spruce, street-corner edifice, which sports soft lighting and a warm buzzy vibe. The name is a reference to the book written by the chef’s partner. Authentic Thai cuisine is crafted with an intelligent blend of spices, fresh herbs and noodles that are cooked on the spot. An example: spicy green curry of beef, bamboo shoots, spring onions and an impossibly tempting unctuous sauce of lime leaves and spices that are crushed just before serving so that they explode in the mouth to reveal their full flavour. A banqu

🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-14:30, 18:30-22:00; Sa 18:30-22:30

Maza'j

Bib Gourmand€€Lebanese, Middle Eastern

Maza'j serves dishes bursting with bold colours and exciting flavours. The tables here are decked with authentic Lebanese specialities that delight diners with their distinctive spiciness and generosity. Velvety hummus with pine nuts, barbecued minced lamb with a delicately sweet bell pepper confit, an array of vegetables elevated by a blend of aromatic herbs… You and your dining companions can look forward to sharing a real feast in a convivial atmosphere. Experience the richness of Lebanese culinary tradition!

Villa Singha

Bib Gourmand€€Thai, Asian

Villa Singha has been upholding and celebrating Thai traditions for over thirty years. A characteristic Thai decor and references to the mythological lion, Singha, set the exotic scene, further enhanced by an extensive succulent menu. Crispy Popiah fried spring rolls, Thai dumplings stuffed with ground pork or fried cod in a ginger chili sauce are a few of the generously crafted and spicy, yet balanced dishes. A word of advice – don’t forget to book, although, if the worse comes to the worst, you can always order a take-away!

La Charcuterie

Bib Gourmand€€Sharing, Country cooking

The retro charm of this former butcher's with its lovely vintage tiles and wainscoting is eminently friendly. Walk past the delicatessen counter and rows of wine bottles (available for purchase) and into the dinky bistro. Premium produce, wholesome, unpretentious cooking and heroic feelgood flavours, with an unexpected Mediterranean dimension. Fritters of pig’s trotters, rings of squid deep-fried in a spicy bagna cauda and a house-made pie of apples drenched in cognac are just a few of the forthright delicacies that can be shared with friends or loved ones, washed down with a glass of fine win

ÔNGBÀ

Bib Gourmand€€Vietnamese, Sharing

The hipster, cosmopolitan vibe of the Flagey district vanishes the instant you set foot inside this colourful eatery that will whisk you off to an equally trendy district of Vietnam. The knockout street food lineup, ideal for sharing, further reinforces this impression of exoticism. Take your pick from a wide range of dishes that will acquaint you with the cornucopia of traditional Vietnamese fare, albeit with the odd original twist. Dip your house-made nems into a sweet-sour dressing or sample a beef and carrot casserole slowly braised in a subtly spicy stock and served with velvety noodles.

ANJU

Bib Gourmand€€korean

Sang Hoon Degeimbre reveals his Korean roots in Saint Gilles. In a hip, minimalist interior, he has recruited a kitchen team that crafts an extensive range of dishes to share, ranging from gutsy stocks and hotpots to kimchi. You may taste melt-in-the-mouth confit pork belly, coated in a barbecue sauce that subtly combines sweet-sour notes with spices. This is paired with white rice, spicy spinach, crisp tangy kimchi and green shiso leaves in a banquet of legible, mind-blowing flavours. The antithesis of fussy with lashings of traditional generosity.

Nénu

Bib Gourmand€€vietnamese

It is neither its sober contemporary décor nor its casual vibe that set Nénu apart from the many restaurants in the Avenue Louise neighbourhood, but its anh nhau concept. This Vietnamese culinary tradition involves sharing good food and a glass (or two) of something with friends and family. Start by sipping a delicious cocktail as you discover how the team adds a modern twist to traditional flavours, creating a mouth-watering menu (choose at least three dishes). House-made lamb wontons in a rice wine and pimento oil sauce, with smoked eel, duck’s tongues in pimento and lemon, etc… Superlative

🕐 Tu 19:00-22:00; We-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:00

Appel Thaï

Bib Gourmand€Thai

Appel Thaï, a firm favourite with foodies, makes the most of its lush green oasis in Anderlecht. In addition to a buzzy, casual vibe throughout, the garden and terraces are sheer bliss in fine weather. The varied score is fully-fledged Thai, depicted by a fantastic mix of fresh, powerful flavours with a savvy blend of spices. For example: spring rolls stuffed with aromatic rice, cos lettuce, thin slices of succulent beef and soy sauce or spicy panang chicken curry with sweet-sour shallots and coriander. Affordable prices, lavish helpings and buckets of charm: it is just the spot to (re)sample

Émulsion

Bib Gourmand€€Modern French

Imagine a tastefully restored brick house in a peaceful neighbourhood. The stylish, minimalist interior sports an open kitchen, and the terrace is shaded by trees. François Côme rolls out a mouthwatering array of dishes on a set menu and a slate menu with a few daily specials, all of which bear witness to his love of no-nonsense, family favourites. A juicy beef Wellington hanger steak is served with crunchy seasonal veggies and a suave shallot sauce, while French toast is paired with vanilla ice cream in an exquisitely enticing match. A seasoned chef whose generosity and creativity are intelli

Le Tournant

Bib Gourmand€€french

The vibrant, bustling Matongé district is home to an equally buzzy neighbourhood eatery: Le Tournant. People drop in for a glass of ‘natural’ wine (trust the sommelier – he knows his job!) and to dig into unfussy, nostalgic dishes that whisk us back to our grandma’s kitchen, together with a sprinkling of creative notes. Examples include leeks vinaigrette with a miso cream and a marinade of pleurote mushrooms, or fork-tender lamb navarin stew, indulgently paired with mashed potato and seasonal veggies. Every dish is an authentic feast of flavour!

Osteria Bolognese

Bib Gourmand€€italian

Giacomo’s mission is to redress the hackneyed image of ‘spag bol’ and his mouth-watering tagliatelle con ragù alla bolognese does just that! All his ingredients are sourced direct from Emilia Romagna, ensuring an explosion of flavour in the mouth. Our inspectors were treated to taglioni with flash fried bresaola, a syrupy balsamic vinegar packed in bitter-sweet flavours and spicy rucola. A buzzy, vibrant vibe depicts this delightful osteria that will introduce you to the authentic cuisine of Bologna.

🕐 Tu-Fr 12:00-14:00,19:00-22:15

Alley Mian

Bib Gourmand€noodle

Gutsy stocks, house-made noodles and flavours direct from the Chinese city of Lanzhou. This buzzy eatery on the corner of the Théâtre de la Monnaie is the little sister of the Bib Gourmand Car Bon establishment. You can see the stocks simmering and admire the skill with which the noodles are kneaded, stretched and folded, before being added to vibrant dishes. An example: Chinese ravioli stuffed with beef and enhanced by a big-boned meat, spring onion and coriander stock. Rather than fancy fussy frills, you can expect full-bodied honest flavours and powerful generous aromas curated into an irre

🕐 Mo off; Tu-Su 12:00-15:00,17:30-21:30

Selecto

Bib Gourmand€€regional

This bistro is thriving in the chic, hipster vibe of the buzzy, authentic Rue de Flandre neighbourhood. Selecto never fails to deliver thanks to its unbeatable set menu and no nonsense bistronomic fare at sensible prices that hits the spot every time. The set menu offers a choice of two (44 euros) or three (52 euros) courses and there is also a slate menu, all of which characterised by big-boned flavours and the odd Mediterranean twist. A few examples: a summer salad of runner beans and prawns, with sautéed speck, crunchy croutons and a poached egg or gutsy slow roasted shoulder of pork with c

🕐 Tu-Th 12:00-14:30,19:00-22:30; Fr-Sa 12:00-14:30,19:00-23:00

Kline

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine

The brutalist concrete interior of the hip Kline restaurant is perfectly matched to the casual vibe. The ingredient-centric menu is sourced locally: veg, beer, even the miso. Chef Corbesier adds a personal spin courtesy of global inspirations. Examples: slow-roasted pork belly with crispy crackling flanked by an intriguing tangy cabbage and kimchi sauce. You can expect an eclectic range of confident, bang-on dishes. The dishes of the attractive à la carte lineup, which features numerous vegetarian options, are perfect to share. ‘Real food for real people’ is the leitmotif.

Strofilia

Bib Gourmand€€greek

This bustling eatery near the fish market epitomises Greek hospitality, as does the spot-on, welcoming front-of-house team. A long hall decked in a modern vein leads into a small, rustically appointed room with brick walls and wooden tables. Both provide a charming backdrop for a lively lunch or cheerful dinner with friends. Mezzes and other Greek delicacies set the culinary tone of the indulgent, full-bodied score. Examples: caviar of aubergine or squid ink-laced rice flanked by a tangy beurre blanc. Don’t miss the fine selection of Greek tipples (many of which are reasonably priced).

🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-14:30,19:00-23:00;Sa 19:00-23:00; Su off

De Maurice à Olivier

Bib Gourmand€€french

Amusingly, you have to walk past Maurice’s newsagents before reaching the Parisian-inspired bistro of his son, Olivier. Gallic tradition characterises both the service and the food. Dishes include fork-tender, juicy turbot cooked on the bone, with mushrooms, a light frothy mousseline with a hint of acidity and a white wine sauce. The chef may add the occasional original note, sometimes courtesy of exquisite plating, but he remains a diehard champion of traditional gourmet fare. A well-stocked wine cellar and a splendid choice of cigars and whiskeys round off this enticing portrait.

🕐 Tu-Sa 12:00-14:00,19:00-21:00, Mo 12:00-14:00

Yoka Tomo

Bib Gourmand€€japanese

A friendly restaurant in a residential neighbourhood with limited seating and a chef who crafts dishes from southern Japan in his open-plan kitchen. Rather than luxury ingredients, you can expect authentic craftsmanship and seasonings that stimulate the tastebuds. For example: dashi-flavoured chawanmushi, prepared to order, with crunchy veggies and shrimp marinated in sake, then steamed. Tomoyuki Ohara has no qualms about surprising us, whilst reverently respecting Japanese culinary traditions. The set menu ticks all the boxes, as does the savvy selection of sakes.

🕐 We-Sa 18:30-22:00

Le Faitout

Bib Gourmand€€Traditional Cuisine, French

Emilie Fernez’ modern brasserie, Le Faitout, is a hit with the locals as the permanently buzzy vibe that reigns inside illustrates. It does indeed tick all the boxes including an à la carte score of family favourites and more modern creations. Examples include home-made foie gras terrine and shrimp fritters or warm prawn and feta salad jazzed up with oriental spices. Everything is prepared to order from the silky bearnaise sauce that flanks melt-in-the-mouth red meat to the sabayon that rounds off your meal in style. Authenticity and generosity meet knockout flavours.

French Kiss

Bib Gourmand€€french

This bustling brasserie in Jette has been renowned for its warm welcome and first-class grilled repertory since 1988. By the the grill, the owner masterfully supervises the spot-on cooking of all types of meat. An example: rare hanger steak with a subtle shallot sauce and of course piping hot fresh fries. The enticing menu naturally stars a lineup of patriotic Belgian classics ranging from shrimp fritters to authentic Brussels waffles. A friendly vibe, generous helpings and a glass of wine in good company – hard to beat!

🕐 Tu-Su 12:00-14:30,18:30-22:00; Fr 12:00-14:30,18:30-22:30

La Marelle Café

Bib Gourmand€€Traditional Cuisine, Farm to table

Over 500 beers, an enticing menu and bargain prices: fans of old school cooking flock to this bustling bolthole in droves. Your first job on arriving will be to scan the establishment’s newspaper to get a proper feel for the place. Rather than fussy frills, you can expect hearty grub oozing in nostalgia: fritters stuffed in vol-au-vent; herring rollmops with house-made French fries; Belgium’s version of steak tartare and chips (with mayonnaise and horse meat)… or eels à la St Feuillien. La Marelle Café is a goldmine of vintage generous recipes.

Station 3

Bib Gourmand€€chinese

This tasteful establishment that sports a low-key exotic interior is renowned for its gourmet Chinese cuisine. An example: whole steamed seabass flanked by a rice vinegar sauce and soy sauce, delicately perfumed with ginger. In addition to a serious range of lobster delicacies, Station 3 also rolls out a splendid vegetarian lineup. The chef has a talent for precise cooking times and a knack for blending exuberant aromas, exotic spices and the occasional burst of sweet and sour flavours in an extensive menu. A golden opportunity to discover China’s culinary generosity in all its glory!

Au Phil des Saveurs

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

This modern, stylish establishment commands a panoramic view over the valley that immediately sets a tranquil tone. Chef Phil Garcia crafts a classical score, to which he adds the odd Mediterranean touch, always with an eye on the visual appeal and overall balance of each dish. An example: a colourful medley of courgettes and tomatoes, baked in the oven and scattered with Provençal herbs is further underscored by a furikake-laced mayonnaise and a velvety spinach and black pepper ice cream. Playful, whole-hearted and full-bodied depict the flavoursome score. The excellent set menu offers a rang

L'Espièglerie

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine, Creative

Since 1988, gourmets have been making a beeline for this romantic hideaway, whose old vaults and bare brick walls lend it masses of cachet and bags of elegance. Choose from the daily special or the menu to sample rich authentic food that has earned this eatery its fine reputation. How about a creative spin on a maki with gambas and smoked eel or cod in lemon breadcrumbs jazzed up with seaweed flavoured cabbage stock? The chef knows how to grab our attention and pamper our taste buds. Gloriously sensibly priced and a splendid selection of beers and Bordeaux wines.

Faraya

Bib Gourmand€€lebanese

The Harika family has morphed the Faraya into an elegant restaurant, whilst retaining its home from home vibe (songbirds included!). True to Lebanese tradition, the authentic dishes are piled high in the middle of the table to be shared by all the guests. Smooth hummus, labneh, mixed grills rich in spices and baklava dripping in honey… Don’t miss the buffet (Saturday evening and Sunday lunchtime).

Chez Chen Wépion

Bib Gourmand€€Chinese

The River Meuse is the star of Chen’s establishment and the low-key dining room stretches out along its banks allowing each table an unhampered view. The Chen family then whisks you off to China, specifically to Zhejiang province. The extensive menu ranges from house-made dimsum to start to tender, juicy lacquered duck with crispy skin flanked by traditional pancakes that further enhance the dish’s underlying umami. A festival of indulgent flavours and generous helpings. A blue-chip establishment that offers splendid value for money.

Comptoir de l'Eau Vive

Bib Gourmand€€Belgian

This trendy, buzzy bolthole is the epitome of a Bib Gourmand. Whether you go for one of the classics on the à la carte menu (like meatballs in tomato sauce or rib of beef with fries) or for the more modern set menu (with a dish like yellowtail flanked by red beetroot, goat’s cheese, mustard ice cream and a mustard and walnut dressing), everything tastes of something here. The wine list and the sommelier’s insights are greatly appreciated, as is the possibility of purchasing cheese and wine, amongst others, from the shop. One final word of advice: take a seat at the counter if you can - you’re

Michel

Bib Gourmand€€Classic Cuisine

Time seems to have stopped at Michel’s from the warm classy interior to the traditional, no-frills food that hits the spot every time thanks to recipes that star local produce. One of the house signatures is duck foie gras, prepared in a terrine with Maitrank (a local beverage) and served with home-made brioche bread and marinated veggies for a welcome fresh note. The chef also has a penchant for lobster, to which he has devoted an entire menu. A friendly, festive vibe and the guarantee of generous helpings of good food.

Le Sixième

Bib Gourmand€€Modern Cuisine

There is something for everyone in this modern bistro. Chef Clément draws his inspiration from top-notch ingredients, which he enhances with savvily devised sides. He enjoys playing with fruity notes, like a quince seasoning that adds a kick to wild boar or the subtle smoky flavours of his wood-fired Josper oven. He has a knack for balancing his recipes with delicious sauces in a bid to create harmonious dishes packed in character and generosity. A word of advice, ask for a table in the second room if you would prefer more intimacy.

Furbetto

Bib Gourmand€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Farm to table

Gust and Jasper have established their friendly eatery a stone’s throw from Heverlee railway station in a smart town house. Their love of unfussy Italian cooking shines through as you watch them wield their magic in the open-plan kitchen. Homemade is the name of the game here, underscored by a constant quest for superlative local produce. After nibbling on a delicious focaccia appetiser, dig into homemade pasta and subtle dishes such as beef tartare jazzed up with cream of anchovies. You can’t go wrong with French toast and buttermilk ice cream to finish. Choose your wine from the bottles on t

La Fermette

Bib Gourmand€€Modern French, French

Sarah Bohet and Michaël Vancraeynest are at the head of this authentic Ardennes stone farmhouse, where an open fire burns in the hearth come wintertime. To make the most of the experience, ask for a table in the farm’s historic section, although the more recent extension is brighter. The culinary score unveils a savvy blend of know-how and funky touches. Succulent red mullet might be paired with morel and vin jaune cream, while the chef consummately grills rib steaks on an open log fire, which are then served with a velvety béarnaise sauce. This exuberant lineup is further enhanced by Sarah’s

Mona Lisa

Bib Gourmand€€Italian, Modern Cuisine

Make no mistake, this modern eatery is light years from your run-of-the-mill Italian trattoria. The Mona Lisa is helmed by a couple of Sicilian parentage, who is proud of their first-rate produce and of lovingly and meticulously crafting old-fashioned recipes that uphold Italy’s impressive culinary legacy. The chef may sear a fine slab of pollock in a frying pan, flanking it with a creamy, rich potato mousseline and an intriguing combination of green and white asparagus, while a risotto ravioli unveils intense flavours and fascinating contrasts. You can trust your hostess to help you make your

Garde Manger

Bib Gourmand€€Farm to table

Picture a traditional Ardennes edifice in the Samson Valley whose interior is snug and homely… Garde Manger (“larder” in English) inevitably brings a smile to our lips, which is largely thanks to the inspired score of Christophe Durand, whose love of seasonal produce is paired with charismatic enthusiasm and consummate know-how. He subtly reinterprets authentic flavours whilst allowing their core character to shine through. Ballotine of guinea fowl is flanked by a powerful gravy and subtle sides. All that remains is to try and solve the dilemma of choosing between the enticing à la carte and s

Restaurant Coquo

Bib Gourmand€€French, Seasonal Cuisine

Corentin Lonnoy, affectionately known as "Coco," has realised his childhood ambition by transforming his family abode into a delightful restaurant adorned with nostalgic photographs of Bierwart. Having honed his skills alongside Pierre Résimont, his genuine enthusiasm for high-quality ingredients shines through in his culinary creations. One standout dish features Anjou pigeon fillet complemented by intriguing accompaniments such as potato millefeuille, confit beetroot, blackberries, and a robust jus. The tempting set menu offers the perfect opportunity to savour this approachable yet refined

Le Confessionnal

Bib Gourmand€€French

Opposite Leffe Abbey, this nostalgic neighbourhood bolthole provides a showcase for the owner’s passion for flea markets. Red and white checked tablecloths, decorative soup tureens and silverware set the friendly scene. The traditional fare oozes with the charm of yesteryear and the regularly changing menu offers an array of hearty, traditional dishes, such as duck leg à la bourguignonne or roast shoulder of lamb with garlic confit. Hunger obliterating food free of fussy frills and a treasure trove of French wines at prices that make sense.

La Broche

Bib Gourmand€€Farm to table

This cosy restaurant has been a culinary landmark of Dinant since 1998. The secret of its success resides in the cheerful, heartfelt welcome of your hostess and the indulgent French culinary score of chef Éric Fieuw. Éric enjoys adding an Asian spin and unexpected notes to a classical lineup. For example, he might prepare fillets of seabass in a crumble with sweet mint in a daring but delicious association. This dish is further enhanced by rich, velvety mashed potato, leeks and a creamy fish sauce. Save room for pudding - the chef is a trained pastry cook! One last word of advice: the lunch me

CCnomie

Bib Gourmand€€Country cooking, Farm to table

David Coisman adds his generous, committed signature to regional produce. The spotlight is on local, familiar ingredients, courtesy of flawless technique and savvy side dishes. In a restored barn of the family farm (1800), you will dig into a Bib Gourmand menu that is read out loud and which is deliciously sensibly priced, both at lunchtime and the evening. Vitello tonnato with tuna marinated in soy or lacquered pigeon with a crispy dumpling of thigh meat and an incredible blackcurrant-laced jus. Exuberant, authentic, spot-on cuisine. Prolong the experience and book a room in the hotel of the

Nulle Part Ailleurs

Bib Gourmand€€Regional Cuisine

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

Le Mont-à-Gourmet

€€€Modern Cuisine

Nicolas Tournay welcomes diners into his inviting neighbourhood eatery, which sports a warm, homespun feel. The chef crafts a score that is both creative and distinctive with produce from local farmers, as he draws his inspiration from both local traditions and Southern Asian cuisines. For example, he may mix glazed scallops with Chinese artichoke and salsifies cooked al dente in butter, a miso-flavoured beurre blanc and a coulis of spinach. Spontaneous, unencumbered cuisine, oozing in flavour.

Flacon

€€Seasonal Cuisine

“Shall we get a bottle?” is something of a recurring theme when Pierre Guérin and his mates get together. This idea of a fine glass of wine in good company is the keystone of this friendly bistro, to which the chef adds uninhibited bistronomic cooking, presented in an excellent lunchtime menu and à la carte in the evening. Deftly crafted, respectful of the ingredient and spot on every time. For example, the chef might add a kick to pork, spinach and purslane in crispy puff pastry courtesy of a red wine and wholegrain mustard jus, a blend of spices and chickpeas. Rather than unnecessarily compl

Divino Gusto

€€€French Contemporary

Despite the Italian name of this elegant restaurant, Marc Grislain’s style is far from restricted to the bel paese. He may be a fan of Mediterranean panache, but that doesn’t prevent him showcasing his mastery of classical techniques together with Asian notes. For example, he might flank a rare rib of steak with veggies such as cream of squash and ginger and a gutsy cooking gravy flavoured with smoky black tea. The sommelier and owner, Gaëtan Poels, can be relied upon to ply you with insightful wine tips to create the perfect pairing. Hats off to this establishment that is enjoying a new lease

Le Délice du Jour

€€€Seasonal Cuisine, Modern Cuisine

Fabrizzio Chirico, who needs no introduction in Wallonia, is back on the gastro scene. He has set up shop in this elegant villa adorned with tasteful decor in warm tones. The chef's passion for working with top-quality, local ingredients is evident in every dish, and the sauces are particularly impressive. Classically trained, he is nonetheless keen to embrace new techniques and likes to play with zingy and smoky flavours, as well as juxtaposing textures. Think raw scallop taken to the next level with a lacto-fermented sauce or black tea enriched with the scallop's coral. One thing is for sure

Le Pilori

€€€Modern French

Le Pilori stands out by its friendly vibe, which was already the case when the venue first opened as a cafe-restaurant back in 1917 and later when it became a jazz club. Today it is the haunt of discerning connoisseurs who come to study (and sample) the impressive wine cellar and dig into suitably traditional fare. The chef avows a weakness for foie gras, langoustines and game, to which his indulgent recipes bear witness. Examples include a rich oxtail terrine, a juicy, melt-in-the-mouth steak with a shallot sauce to die for or a wickedly addictive iced nougat!

L'esprit Bouddha

€€€Chinese, Organic

Light years from the clichés traditionally associated with Chinese restaurants, l’Esprit Bouddha is a modern establishment on a permanent quest for subtlety, but that hasn’t forgotten its roots for all that. Start your meal with beef gyoza, before digging into finger-licking tasty little house pancakes stuffed with crisp Peking duck, vegetables and a punchy hoisin sauce. The epitome of Asian generosity with an absolutely knockout wine list.

Céma Passion

€€€Modern French

Pauline’s infectious enthusiasm in the front of house and Cedric’s charismatic personality in the kitchen set the scene in this quintessentially laid-back establishment that pulls out all the stops to pamper youguests. You can expect premium produce (like black truffle brought back from France by Pauline’s brother-in-law) and the chef’s fascinating modern spin on Gallic recipes. Examples: truffles with steamed scallops, white wax beans with braised ham and a knockout beef consommé. Sincerity, generosity and commitment are the watchwords of Céma Passion.

Viticolo

€€€Italian, Mediterranean Cuisine

A stopover in this red brick edifice on the outskirts of Oisquercq will whisk you off to Italy. The interior and the peaceful patio are both stylish and comfortably cosy. The produce is local, illustrated by the garden-fresh herbs coating the pluma iberico. Juicy octopus is enhanced and underscored by a sauce featuring the subtle acidity of cime di rapa. The pasta is naturally fresh and home-made in this restaurant, determined to uphold Italian traditions.

Max & Moi

€€€Modern Cuisine, French

Max & Pina have set up shop on Place Baudouin 1er in a tastefully refurbished town house dripping in understated glamour and sporting a suitably tasteful colour scheme. The couple works with a talented youthful chef, Julien Hauspie, who prefers to work with local produce while rolling out his experience gleaned in worldclass establishments at home and abroad. The chef’s know-how can be tasted in the beurre blanc that flanks seabass or in his way with carrots, which he might pair with a béarnaise sauce and tarragon and lemon oil, also demonstrating his creative side and fun-loving personality.

Le Métro

€€€Italian

Le Métro in the heart of Bracquegnies displays discreet references to the saxophone, which is Giuseppe’s favourite musical instrument. In the company of chef Rita, the couple invite you to sample authentic recipes and produce from Italy and Sicily in particular. Rita stuffs al dente tortelli with fresh, slightly salty ricotta, which is then served with a heavenly buttery sauce flavoured with mint and sage, before a twist of lemon and Timut pepper add the finishing touch to this heroically satisfying dish, that fully exemplifies Rita’s hallmark of wholesome fare. Food with feeling is the name o

Chez Duche

€€Traditional Cuisine

You can expect unadorned dishes that throb with flavour in what is the epitome of a neighbourhood eatery: rib of horse meat with house-made fries, lavishly served cassoulet, piled high with duck confit and Toulouse sausage or a waterzooi of seasonal veggies. A patriotic pageant of French and Belgian classics prepared and served with textbook precision and generosity. Chez Duche has been feeding us well since 1993!

Toit

€€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Sardinian

The Boulemberg firm has opened this unusual restaurant on the roof of its manufacturing showroom. Floor to ceiling windows (their stock in trade!) and a terrace command splendid views of the lush green countryside, while a Mediterranean-inspired interior provides the perfect foil to extravagant, full-bodied Sardinian recipes underscored by French technique. Hence the contrast between steamed seabass and cooked sweetbread, paired with a lemon confit beurre blanc. The menu (renewed every six weeks) is rich in big-boned Mediterranean flavours and aromas.

TA-K Venir

€€Farm to table

Philippo Santangelo and his right-arm man John Oremans extend an invitation to discover a bistronomic lineup in their tastefully appointed townhouse and lovely adjoining garden. Pedigree bistro classics like duck shepherd’s pie are crafted with lashings of know-how and technique. The chef professes a distinct weakness for la cucina italiana, depicted by crispy fritters stuffed with rigatello and guanciale, or al dente taglioni with a velvety parmesan sauce and juicy mussels. The first-class wine list is yet another argument to encourage you to plan an excursion to Mont-sur-Marchienne.

Les Tilleuls

€€Home Cooking

The former village hall of Céroux-Mousty has been converted into a welcoming bistro. Marc Volkaerts throws all his enthusiasm into crafting his own version of classical cuisine, such as shrimp fritters, sole fish fingers or duck shepherd’s pie. He adds a personal and distinctive spin, courtesy of his extensive experience, creating dishes that stand out with crispy crunchy details or delicately, tangy touches. The market fresh menu changes daily and is chalked up on a slate.

Le Bouchon et l'Assiette

€€€Farm to table

This family-run eatery has been a hit with foodies for going on 25 years. The rural appeal of the brick-built farmstead and the surrounding countryside have most probably played their part, as has the picturesque interior. However, it is above all the healthy portions of classical fare, updated with the odd modern spin, that draw the regulars back. Examples include full-bodied rabbit and foie gras terrine, deliciously crispy calf’s sweetbread or fiendishly indulgent profiteroles filled with cream and coated in sophisticated dark chocolate at the last minute. Ask to see the market-fresh menu (w

Auberge de la Roseraie

€€€French, Traditional Cuisine

The inhabitants of well-heeled Ohain have adopted this 19C farmstead that is a bastion of French cooking served in a relaxed atmosphere. Rather than surprises, you can expect to sample deftly executed recipes by a chef who combines his deep-seated understanding of ingredients with subtle sauces. An example: juicy quail with a crispy skin, lightly seared veal sweetbread and a honey-flavoured jus. Nostalgic flavours of yesteryear!

Eddy Vraie

€€Classic Cuisine

Chef Eddy’s last name (True) is indeed emblematic of his powerful, honest cooking, free of pointless frills or fuss. Generous helpings of good wholesome nosh await the hungry diner. Examples include melt-in-the-mouth terrine of rabbit, speck and foie gras and the house signatures are salmon smoked on the premises and seared foie gras. A restaurant with a soul, both in the plate and the decor, both of which exemplify the establishment’s commitment to authenticity.

La Cuisine du Côté Vert

€€Classic Cuisine, Creative French

The restaurant of Le Côté Vert Hotel unsurprisingly bears the hallmark of nature. Natural materials adorn the interior, whose floor to ceiling windows command a splendid view of the garden. Vegetables are the stars of the show in the chefs’ updated recipes, without forgetting meat and fish. The focus is on allowing each natural ingredient to shout its name.

La Scarpetta

€€Italian

We warrant that you will fall head over heels when you set foot in this pleasant restaurant. Comfort, a warm welcome and generous portions – what’s not to like? Authentic Italian recipes, mainly from Marche, come to life in familiar dishes oozing with flavour. The chef might enhance fresh al dente calamarata pasta with salsiccia and a parmesan and truffle sauce. A banquet of Italian fare! The restaurant has rapidly become a favourite with the locals – booking highly recommended.