The Fernand Cocq Square in Ixelles has undergone a major transformation in recent years. The square became almost entirely car-free, benches and greenery were added to the little central park and the footpaths were widened so that the bars and restaurants can install larger terraces to accommodate more customers.
It is here, on this square, that Frédéric Nicolay has opened his latest creation. Le Cocq, named after the square, is a bar, café and friterie with an adjoining self-service laundry. Frédéric Nicolay is the hospitality king of Brussels. Over the past 25 years, he has opened numerous bars, restaurants, an amusement arcade and a bio shop at various locations in Brussels. Nicolay has a nose for locations in need of a makeover. It's not just the location that's benefitting, but the whole neighbourhood. He has his own vision of hospitality, sometimes a bit stubborn, but most of the time spot on.
This former night bistro (you could eat all night here) with a lot of wood and a high ceiling has been transformed into a lively and soulful venue with a beautiful long counter that can serve both inside and outside. Nicolay likes to build living spaces where you can come for a coffee in the morning, lunch at noon, some drinks after work or a cocktail at night.
Place Fernand Cocq 12
€
no-price
Find your way with 295 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
My favorite is Spanakopita, a buttery & flaky phyllo pastry with a filling of cooked spinach and feta cheese. For dessert I recommend a slice of Bougatsa!
by
"La Boule d'Oro" is my personal no. 1 brasserie in Brussels. This corner cafe resembles my primary school cafeteria & has excellent Belgian food & beer.
by
The "Cemetery of Brussels" (opened in 1877) was designed as an English landscape garden - get lost among avenues and cobbestone streets here...
by
"Le Monts des Arts" is my favorite place in Brussels, as all my friends know already - especially the esplanade at the end of it. Just go at sunset...
by
At España Calidade they hang around twenty types of dried ham on big hooks around the store, in between the huge paella pans and spicy peppers.
by
They look at each other and then it starts right away, no time to think, they just do. What I love most is the conversations you have afterward...
by
I especially love their chicken lasagna because it takes away a little bit from the heavy pasta dish but still fulfills all of your carb cravings...
by
The Café Aa is a small place with amazing couches and a very charismatic owner who plays relaxing music and cooks one 'meal of the day'...
by
The "Hippodrome de Boitsfort" in Brussels is a historical horse track that's now a part of cultural heritage surrounded by beautiful nature.
by
"Buddy Buddy" in Brussels is a cozy, minimalist café with great coffee - but what makes them special is their delicious home-made nut butters!
by
"Place Brugmann" in Ixelles, slightly off the centre of Brussels, is reminiscent of Paris. I like the independent shops surrounding it & the Sunday market!
by
295 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 295 Insider Tips