Tom Marchant
Trying to define Brussels is pretty impossible but that’s a part of its charm, if you ask me. From the historic to the hip, plus all those different languages and cultures – there isn’t one ‘type’ here. There’s the ornate Grand Place, the winding cobbled streets and cosy wood-panelled beer halls for that almost medieval feel, plus cutting-edge design hotels and chic nightspots that keep it firmly in this century.
Great food is a must if I’m going to like a place, and Brussels has definitely not let me down. La Quincaillerie, a former hardware store with amazing design, like the huge rail station clock, and compartments, once full of tools and gadgets, now brimming with my favourite cocktail ingredients. The shellfish bar is entertainment all in itself and its dishes completely delicious.
For some art deco style cocktails, ring the doorbell at L’Archiduc on Antoine Dansaert Street – be sure to check out their live music during ‘Tell Me Why I Do Like Mondays.’ When your sweet tooth kicks in, it’s hard to think of Belgium and not think of chocolate, so a favourite chocolatier of mine is the family-run Wittamer. They’re the official suppliers of the Court of Belgium, so you know these guys are good.
When I’m travelling, I like to pick up new kit and Brussels is the perfect to do just that. There are a couple of out-of-the-way vintage shops which I head to in the city before jumping on the Shopping Express (saves navigating if you’re new to the city) out to Maasmechelen Village. You’re a bit spoilt for choice here so taking an extra bag always does the job. Gastronomia Cellini at Maasmechelen Village is my favourite for post-shopping stop-off.
I love the small-city feel and tri-lingual (at least) population of Brussels. The huge number of foreign residents means this is a Mecca of international delights as well as that always dependable Belgian flavour. Yes, they even have waffles. It seems around every corner there’s an edgy atelier, antique shop or café cooler than the last...You won’t struggle to discover your own favourite bolthole; just take a stroll and you’ll find plenty, trust me.
06-03-2011