PEI ET MEI
Pei et Mei went straight on top of my to-do list as soon as I heard about its opening. Aside from the fact that I love trying new spots in town, the team behind this place is very promising to say the least. After working at top-notch restaurants in Brussels, chef Gauthier De Baere and wine expert Melissa Triantopoulos have created Pei et Mei (which actually means Man and Woman in the old Bruxellois dialect) in the beautiful Sablon.
Pei et Mei has managed to strike the perfect balance between modern and traditional both in terms of food and atmosphere. I immediately felt at ease upon entering: exposed brick walls, Scandic decor details and a handful of tables overlooking the open kitchen make the space cozy yet slick. Foodwise, there are various set menus to choose from for dinner but If you find yourselves around noon in the area, go for the lunch tasting menu, which includes 3 different dishes and a glass of wine at a bargainous price.
Being curious and rather hungry, my partner in crime and I decided to go for the full set menu and kicked off our meal with a glass of Greek wine and an appetizing amuse bouche, cucumber and apple salad with feta mousse and creamy endive soup. Our starters were as mouthwatering as they sound: lobster bisque, Nobashi tempura and three different sauces for me; pig’s trotter croquette with homemade vegetable pickles for him. Our mains were cooked to perfection and came in very generous portions. I went for the pan-fried cod and mashed potatoes with watercress while he had the braised beef cheeks with mixed vegetables – both highly recommended. By the time we had dessert, I knew I had found heaven in Brussels. Both the lemon tart and the “assiette tout chocolat” (chocolate ice cream, bitter chocolate mousse, macadamia nut brownies and Mikado crêpe) were the perfect ending to our dinner.
Considering the food quality, price and friendly service, Pei et Mei was probably the best meal I’ve had in Brussels lately and would definitely recommend it to all foodies out there. Make sure you make a reservation and enjoy!
| INFO |
| Address: Rue de Rollebeek 15, 1000 Brussels, Belgium |
| Telephone: +32 2 8805339 |
| Facebook page |
*UPDATE: Unfortunately, Pei et Mei is now closed.*
