Brussels, once dominated by traditional French restaurants frequented by diplomats in gray suits, has undergone a vibrant transformation. A new wave of young chefs, driven by innovative ideas about flavor and sustainability, has turned the city into one of Europe’s most exciting and affordable dining destinations.
These visionary chefs are revolutionizing Brussels’ old-fashioned bistros and cafes by incorporating spices from around the world, such as Korea, Latin America, and Morocco. They are infusing a modern twist into classic local comfort dishes, utilizing local produce like cabbage, carrots, endives, and brussels sprouts.
Brussels now exudes a gastronomic vibe akin to Brooklyn or Marseille – casual, creative, and multicultural. The city embraces a diverse culinary landscape, seamlessly blending cuisines like bulgogi and duck breast into innovative dishes.
Here are five must-visit restaurants in Brussels that showcase the city’s culinary evolution:
Anju:
Located in the St.-Gilles neighborhood, Anju offers a fusion of South Korean and Belgian cuisine in a minimalist setting. The menu features dishes like pajeon, stir-fried octopus, samgyetang, and duck breast bulgogi. Anju also serves a selection of rice wine, Soju, and a unique Korean beer brewed exclusively for the restaurant.
Aster:
Aster presents a plant-based and seafood tasting menu in a casual setting with an open kitchen and handmade ceramics. The menu changes regularly, offering inventive dishes like North Sea squid, smoked eel mille-feuille, langoustines prepared three ways, and hazelnut ice cream with Belgian blue cheese.
Kline:
Kline, located in the Dansaert district, serves contemporary Belgian comfort food with a global twist. The menu includes dishes like brussels sprouts guacamole, braised pork belly with kimchi, and North Sea scallops with Belgian saffron. The restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and sustainable farming practices.
Nyyó:
Nyyó, run by the son of Vietnamese immigrants, blends Belgian, Vietnamese, and American influences in its menu. Highlights include beef tai chanh, bahn mi burger, Linh’s Tacos, and a Liège Ca Phe Cafe – combining espresso, condensed milk, and Cognac. The restaurant’s minimalist decor complements the fusion cuisine.
Klok:
Klok, helmed by chef Florent Ladeyn, focuses on regional French-Belgian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The menu features dishes like sea-snail croquettes, quail à la Brabançonne, and sweet-potato churros. Vegetarian options are available, showcasing grilled turnips, celeriac, and beets.
Brussels’ dining scene has evolved into a dynamic mix of traditional and innovative flavors, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of the city’s culinary renaissance.
