Its name might impart more the idea of a Scottish aristocratic restaurant than an American diner, but Le Balmoral is definitely the latter – and most probably pretty much the only one in central Brussels. It has the added advantage of being on Place Brugman, which is one of the nicest areas in Ixelles Brussels

It started back in 1989 as a Milk-Bar and you will be forgiven to think that you have gone through a time warp the moment you step inside and find yourself surrounded by shocking purples and pink, diner barstools, statuettes of Betty Boop and jukeboxes. But that is exactly the charm of this restaurant. That, and the food of course. For those expecting the full diner experience, the menu of ‘Le Balmo’, (as it is known by locals) does not disappoint. It has a range of burgers, hot dogs, club sandwiches, waffles and milkshakes plus some healthier Belgian additions, such as the Carpaccio club sandwich.

If you go on weekends and holidays, expect to be surrounded by plenty of children. In fact, Le Balmoral has a small kids-playing area at the back. The staff running the place is very young and every time I have been there I have found them to be extremely courteous.