Hot, salty chips served with a bowlful of garlicky moules (mussels) are a Brussels
specialty. Try them and other Belgian fare at the atmospheric Restaurant
Vincent, where beautiful tiles decorate the walls. Authentic seafood restaurants
line the Quai aux Briques near Place Sainte-Catherine.
Michelin stars shine throughout the city. If you're out to impress, make a
reservation at Comme Chez Soi. For international cuisine, head to Rue des
Bouchers or Petite Rue des Bouchers. The chic area around Grand
Sablon square is also popular with affluent diners. Lola brasserie
is a pleasant choice for a business lunch or casual dinner.
Shopping
Rue Neuve, home to many boutiques and department stores, is a popular shopping
area. The upscale Galeries Royales St-Hubert, which opened in 1847, is one of
Europe's oldest malls. The Italian neo-Renaissance style arcade houses chic
boutiques and cafes. Designer boutiques line Avenue Louise. If
you're after an old-fashioned bargain, visit Grand Sablon's
weekend antiques market.
Don't leave Brussels without some top-quality chocolate. Chocolatier
Mary, Wittamer and Neuhaus are amongst the best places to buy
handmade treats. Brussels is also famous for lace. Pick up a pretty piece from
Maison Antoine, Victor Hugo's former home.
Things to do
Number one on your list should be seeing the Gothic Grand Place, one of
Europe's most elegant squares. Within it stands the asymmetrical medieval
Town Hall. Nearby is the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate, where you
can learn the history of Belgium's favorite export and watch it being made.
Art Nouveau fans love the Horta Museum, at architect Victor Horta's
onetime home, and the Musical Instruments Museum. The 335-foot-high
(102-meter) Atomium hosts exhibitions by day and illuminates the
city's sky by night.
