Brussels: Beyond the Grand Place, Delirium, and Manneken Pis

Looking for a fun day in Brussels that doesn’t involve the typical tourist destinations? Below is a walking tour that goes beyond the beaten path.

One of my favorite places to start is St. Catherine’s Place, a 10-minute walk from the center; it is a vibrant square full of life on a sunny Belgian day. St. Catherine’s Church, the focal point of the square, is surrounded by restaurants featuring Belgian and international fare. From sushi to crepes, any palate can be satisfied!

My top choices are Noordzee, a famous seafood counter where you can get fresh oysters, shrimp, mussels and more. With no indoor space, it’s best enjoyed on a sunny day with a crisp bottle of wine.

Fancy a great noodle bar?

Umamido, a ramen restaurant situated on the corner, is perfect for those rainy Belgian days. Do yourself a favor and order the Chef’s special!

Once your belly is full, stroll down Rue de Flandre for some boutiquing. You will find stores showcasing Belgian art, design, vintage clothing, Italian specialties and more. Urban Therapy, a boutique specializing in tea and terrariums, is one of my favorites. Sip and savor interesting combinations of tea leaves while browsing unique clothing, jewelry and plant selections.

What more could a girl want?

After all the perusing, stop and get something to quench your thirst. Head over to Via Via, where their drink selection is almost as impressive as their game collection. Grab a beer, a board game and just hang!

Or, if you’re in the mood for a caffeine boost, Café Velvet or Pipaillon-La Conserverie will do the trick. To note, Pipaillon is also a specialty jam and chutney shop.

You are now on Quai aux Briques. This street has some of the best fish restaurants in the city.“Quai” meaning wharf, was the location of the ancient port of Brussels. No longer an active port, it still holds the title of having some of the freshest fish in the city. Choose from one of the many restaurants lining the street and if you see mussels in truffle sauce on the menu, don’t hesitate…

To end the night right, I suggest stopping by Madame Mustache to see if there is a reggae band playing, swing dancing, or rock concert happening. This quirky venue is a Brussels staple that always entertains.

So put on your walking shoes and start exploring!

Until next time,

J.