LE PETIT RACINES
Brussels has plenty of Italian restaurants but there are those that get it just right. Over the years I have managed to find my favourite spots for Italian food in the city but there’s always room for more, especially when they’re as good as Le Petit Racines!
If you live in Brussels, you’ve probably already heard of Racines which has become a favourite amongst locals. The owners, Francesco Cury and Ugo Federico, have made a name for themselves with their meatless Italian dishes and now they’re opening nearby another spot focused on what they know best: fresh pasta and good wine (“pasta fresca e vino buono”).
Having tried a couple of dishes from Racines at the Eat! Brussels food festival, I arrived with high expectations. And luckily, Le Petit Racines did not disappoint! On the menu you’ll find charcuterie and cheese boards, homemade fresh pasta and a few other Italian specialties. I didn’t have to think twice before ordering – it was beef ragù pappardelle which I happily washed down with a Spritz, savouring every mouthful. It was as if an Italian nonna had invited me over for lunch – isn’t it the best feeling when you enjoy warm, hearty food?
Contrary to its big brother, Le Petit Racines serves meat which in this case, was perfectly cooked. I also liked the fact that several ingredients are locally sourced, like the eggs and flour for the pasta that come from the Ferme Censier and the Ferme de la Barré, respectively. Another thing I’m sure you’ll all appreciate is the size of the portions. There are two options, medium and large, so choose wisely and make sure to leave room for dessert. The tiramisu is hard to resist and a must-try. Light, with the right amount of cream and homemade biscuits, it’s one of the best I’ve tried lately.
The bill came at around 30€ which is certainly not cheap but then again, quality comes at a certain price. If you’re looking for a casual, yum place for pasta around Flagey, Le Petit Racines is your spot (and it’s open on Sundays too!). They don’t take reservations, so you might have to wait for a while but you’ll be rewarded. Enjoy and don’t count the calories – you can walk them off later around the Etangs d’Ixelles followed by a coffee at the spacious terrace of Cafe Belga.
| INFO |
| Address: Chaussée d’Ixelles 347, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium |
| Telephone: +32 2 6334303 |
| Website / Facebook page |
*UPDATE: Unfortunately, Le Petit Racines is now closed.*
