I’m a country boy who came to live in a big city. Sometimes, the wall of sound, the insensate concrete, the cars, the cars, the cars and their fumes in my lungs stir an indistinct yearning deep in my soul for an Arcadian outing.
Brussels’ routes for escape are many. For example, check the Dudenpark article, Josaphat park article, Woluwepark article or the Ter Kamerenbos article. Yet, the Rood Klooster (Red Cloister) is my favorite place to appease my country soul.
The pleasures are multiple. You can enjoy a long forest walk in the surrounding Zoniënwoud, along ponds, swamps and mushrooms. The domain has history as well. Some of the buildings date back to the 14th century of what was once an important, wealthy Augustinian priory. It has always been a place for artists to reside and find inspiration. The famous 15th century Flemish primitive painter Hugo van der Goes is one of them. 20th century painter Paul Delvaux was a regular visitor too. No wonder the Rood Klooster site today is home to an art center and Belgian artist ateliers. There is also a charming bio-brasserie – located in the old porter’s house – where you can have a yummy raclette (molten cheese) sandwich and a bio-beer. All products are organic and local.
But maybe my country craving finds its ultimate satisfaction in the farm animals such as horses, donkeys, dogs, geese and chickens running around on the site while a lovely dung heap steams in the winter cold.
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"Belga & Co" in Brussels is one of the city's great coffee places. Everything made in-house, friendly service, big window, no frills - just good coffee.
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Even though it's a little out of the route for most, Glacier Zizi is definitely worth the detour! Ice cream, waffles, crêpes, smoothies... Your pick!
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Come at any point of the day and have a fresh drink, a burger, salad or chill and let your kids/dogs run in the park while you chat with your friends.
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A simple but still refined style characterizes this café, which at night becomes a warm wine bar with small plates to share.
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I haven't yet been able to identify all the villages/churches marked on the small stone wall but I'm sure I will at some point!
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The Perché rooftop bar is on top of the JAM hotel, which is why not many people wander up here, but it's so worth it! It has a great view and comfy chairs.
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With a cozy interior and a pleasant scent of toasted coffee beans, Caleo offers different options for brunch, from viennoiseries to delicious pancakes.
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If you come with a group, I suggest taking the “Moriawase” (Japanese for “assortment”), a larger plate that is easier to share and to try different things.
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With an extravagant vintage decore, the bar takes its name from Queen Fabiola, a Spanish noblewoman who was a very beloved Queen consort of the Belgians.
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The name Nenu comes from the Vietnamese concept of “an nhau”, a style of drinking and eating culture, sharing small and large plates with friends & family.
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The stars of the menu are the homemade fluffy pancakes - an explosion of flavors, which come in different flavors, including a tiramisu and matcha version.
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295 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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