Holy Smoke
This is the second time I’m writing about Holy Smoke. Why? Because they’re freakin’ awesome. I have a soft spot for smoky BBQ flavours. The kind that instantly pulls you back in time. For me, it’s childhood memories of camping trips along the Eastern coast of the United States, where my parents somehow always found the best smokehouses. Holy Smoke does exactly that. Their finger-licking ribs and juicy brisket hit that same nostalgic note. Proper smoke, real patience, and meat that speaks for itself.
Matto
On a quiet Tuesday night in January, you ring a doorbell near Place Flagey and wait to be buzzed in. No sign shouting for attention, just a maison de maître that keeps its secrets well. Once the door opens, you step into Matto, a calm, elegant space that instantly slows you down.
Sojubar
On a rainy January evening in Brussels, the kind where you crave something warm, easy and comforting, we found ourselves at Sojubar. One of those evenings where you don’t want anything complicated, just good food, a relaxed atmosphere and a place where you can settle in without overthinking it. We slid into a booth, shook off the rain, and immediately felt at ease.
BoaBoa Records Café
Boaboa Record Café is a place where sound, food and atmosphere move in harmony. Built around a deep love for vinyl and high-fidelity listening, it pairs warm, immersive soundscapes with light, daring sharing dishes designed to complement the mood rather than compete with it. Borderless in spirit and generous in flavour, the food enhances the cosy, laid-back rhythm of the space, making Boaboa a café, listening room and social hub where you naturally want to linger.
Chicago
After eleven years, Chicago has given itself a fresh start, not by changing what people love, but by making space for it. A new interior, a bigger kitchen, a strong focus on great coffee, and the same generous brunches that made the place a favorite in the first place. From a comforting English breakfast to cinnamon French toast for sweet teeth, this is Chicago as you remember it, only better.
Volle Gas
Today, Volle Gas feels once again like a true Brussels institution, the menu celebrates Belgian comfort classics. From americain and carbonnade to mussels and smoked trout from Anderlecht, paired with solid Belgian beers, including Cantillon and Brasserie de la Senne. The beautifully preserved interior, with its oak bar, marble tables and historic details, carries a rich past that still quietly inhabits the room, making Volle Gas a place where Brussels’ culinary and cultural memory remains very much alive.
La Table du Boucher
Imagine your favorite local butcher shop opening a restaurant just a few doors down the street. The place where you get your meat every week, now grills, seasons, and serves the best cuts to you with pride. That’s exactly what La Table du Boucher feels like, a natural extension of the neighborhood's trusted boucherie, only now you get to sit down, relax, and taste the story behind every piece.
Le Flore
Nestled right in the middle of the Bois de la Cambre is Le Flore. This magical spot is surrounded by trees, garden lights, the soft glow of candles, and an inviting interior. Its fairytale setting makes it the perfect place to embrace the changing season. Although it’s deep in the forest, a road leads directly to the entrance — ideal if walking through the forest trails isn’t an option. Discover the Wednesday tapas nights, chesse raclette Fridays or the weekend brunch.
Le Pilea - Brasserie
When you walk into Le Pilea Brasserie in Uccle, you quickly feel the mix of tradition and new beginnings. The owners, David San, born in Cambodia, and his wife Dorothéa, with Belgian and Italian roots from the Amalfi coast, opened the doors on June 1st, 2024. The dishes change regularly with the seasons, but always stay rooted in the spirit of a Brussels brasserie—fresh, generous, and made to comfort. It’s a perfect excuse to step away from the office or enjoy a relaxed midday meal on their sunny terrace.
Kaiju
Whether you’re the sharing type or usually guard your plate, Kaiju is the kind of place where you’ll want to make an exception. Nestled on the ground floor of the Jam Hotel in Saint-Gilles, this lively spot serves up street food like you’ve never tasted before. Drawing inspiration from Japanese and Korean cuisine, the kitchen blends bold Asian flavors with top-quality local and European ingredients.
Gringo
Last week, I got a message from Gringo:
“Hola! Do you want to try our tacos?”
Of course I do. Taco is a magic word—the kind that makes me instantly happy.
The place has a youthful, energetic vibe—think club‑style music, chatting and laughter, tables full of friends out for a fun night. It’s casual, vibrant, and buzzing with life.
Boukan Boukan
Boukan Boukan — Summer Fire and Afro Flavour at Flagey. The well-known Liège-based restaurant Yaka Afrotoria has brought a serious dose of summer heat to Brussels with its brand-new pop-up: Boukan Boukan. Nestled in the former space of Chez Marie near Flagey, this vibrant temporary spot is all about fire, flavor, and Afro-diasporic soul.
Karma Kitchen
As many of you already know, I’m a die-hard fan of Indian food—especially when it comes with a British twist. I’ve been known to plan entire trips to the UK with one thing in mind: curry. There’s just nothing quite like that rush of heat, the explosion of spices, the depth of flavor that lingers long after the meal is done. My love for it goes far beyond the classics like chicken tikka masala and garlic naan. This is a full-blown, weekly craving.
StrEat Fest 2025
From May 16th to 18th, 2025, expect mouthwatering street food, free masterclasses and workshops, and a StrEat Market packed with local artisans.
I had the chance to get a sneak peek at what’s planned for this year — here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss, along with all the practical info to make the most of your StrEat Fest 2025 experience.
Mumtaz
Just a stone’s throw away from the busy streets of Matonge, there’s a place that has been quietly serving authentic Indian cuisine for over four decades. Mumtaz first opened its doors in 1982, making it one of the earliest Indian restaurants in the area. The story behind it is one of family, tradition, and genuine hospitality.
Old Boy
I'll admit it — I've always had a bit of a crush on Old Boy. They were one of the building stones when I started my blog. One of those places I had to tell everyone about, scream it from the rooftops.
They played hard to get over the past four months, being closed for renovations. But they’re back in business now, and I think it's safe to say — we're ALL happy about it.
Bistro Nazionale
Sunday is a sacred moment in Italy—a time for family gatherings, sharing stories, and cooking glorious food for loved ones. To welcome us into this tradition, Bistrò Nazionale opens its doors every Sunday for Domenica, offering not just incredible Italian food but also the warm hospitality that comes with it. They’ve lovingly named their Sunday brunch Giro Pasta. This is not your typical Sunday brunch. It’s generous, abundant, and comforting—everything you’d expect from lunch at Nonna’s house.
Ciccio
Ciccio's culinary focus is on Roman-inspired dishes, particularly their signature sourdough painza. Crafted with their own natural yeast and Belgian artisanal flour, these oval-shaped creations boast a crispy exterior and airy interior. Toppings are contemporary and seasonal, reflecting a commitment to local products. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging guests to explore a variety of flavors together.
Racines
A steps away from Place Flagey, Racines is one of those places that quietly earns a loyal following. No flashy signs, no over-the-top marketing—just an honest focus on good food, good wine, and a deep respect for ingredients. This is Italian cuisine at its most authentic, prepared with a sense of place and purpose.
Feta & Oregano
Feta & Oregano is a true testament to family, heritage, and hard work. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Marsani Ayrton and Maria Moukas, both born in Brussels to Greek parents, their restaurants bring the authentic flavors of Greece to Ixelles.