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 293 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
It has everything anyone with a little interest in art would want: photographs, exhibitions, coffee, cakes, and even some animals and farming activities.
by
Delicatesse Declerc will offer you all the cheesiness you've been missing in the heart of Ixelles. Soft creamy, old, blue, any type of cheese...
by
What I love about Perruche is that it caters to all needs. It is a place frequented by families, students and friends (big tables for your bday drinks!).
by
What I love about La Ferme Rose is that it brings together many artists from the neighborhood at the many markets it organizes on the weekends.
by
This cultural center organizes activities year-round from feminist conferences to cultural exhibitions. Check out their upcoming events before you go!
by
I love museums where I can touch and experience the things they're trying to show. At the Museum of Urban Transport Brussels you can do just that!
by
Le Chat is one of the most famous cartoons in Belgium for being cynical and very on point (and I think it perfectly embodies the Belgian way of life).
by
"Flamme" in Brussels keeps it simple: here you'll find an assortment of sausages prepared in front of you on the grill, above the fire...
by
"Brasseries Georges" is one of the veritable culinary institutions of Brussels. I like its shellfish and beef cuts and its long, continuous opening hours!
by
"Le Balmoral" Brussels started back in '89 as a milk bar and today it looks more like an American diner. I always feel like I've gone through a time warp.
by
"Station Brussels-Congress" is my favorite train station in Brussels. It is often dead. Except when an event is held! Then, the bar opens...
by
293 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 293 Insider Tips