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BELGA QUEEN

Sometimes you want to treat yourself to a night out combining good food, great company and – why not? – a slightly more formal attire than usual. Let’s face it, Brussels is quite relaxed when it comes to dressing up for a night out in the city, so whenever an opportunity to get all dolled up and go out comes my way, I go for it!

When it comes to such special occasions, Belga Queen is always a good idea. This high-end restaurant in downtown Brussels is housed in a former 19th-century bank building that’s absolutely stunning. As you enter, you’re tempted by the fresh seafood served at the Oyster Bar on your left handside and a wide selection of beers and cocktails at the bar on your right. A marble columned passage leads you to the spectacular main dining hall with its stained-glass high ceilings and quirky works of art. And then there’s the old vault on the basement which has been transformed by interior designer Antoine Pinto into a cigar’s club. 

Another reason to go to Belga Queen apart from the decor and overall ambiance is the food – Belgian with a modern twist. My favourite dishes remain the same: For starters, I always go either for the foie gras with crunchy Belgian chocolate leaves 80%, Liège syrup giclée and grilled brioche or the salmon tartar with olive oil and radish cream. As for the main dishes, I would recommend the roasted “coucou de Malines” (Belgian poultry) which is accompanied by gingerbread with pear syrup, homemade chips and a mixed salad. Portions are generous, but make sure you leave room for dessert. Last time I tried the trio chocolate mousse and absolutely loved it!

As you might have guessed by now, Belga Queen is a popular spot so a reservation beforehand is advisable. Last but not least, an odd-sounding tip (I promise, it will make sense as soon as you experience it): Check out the ladies’ room, you are definitely in for a surprise! 

INFO
Address: Rue du Fossé aux Loups 32, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Telephone: +32 2 2172187
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*UPDATE: Unfortunately, Belga Queen is now closed.*belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_01 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_02 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_03 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_04 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_05 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_06 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_07 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_08 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_09 belga_queen_brussels_smarksthespots_blog_10

Sandy (@smarksthespots)