Toukoul Brussels
An Ethiopian restaurant with a twist
Although it really is too cool, this restaurant is actually named after a traditional Ethiopian adobe hut, where conviviality and atmosphere are the order of the day. Reincarnated in a permanent brick building on Brussels' gritty but gentrifying Rue de Laeken, the owners have succeeded in capturing the dreamy ambiance of the exotic. The ubiquitous dark wood, in various shades, creates a cosy vibe, which is reinforced by the friendly staff and intriguing music.
If you're familiar with Ethiopian food, you will already expect the hefty portions, served up on deliciously fermented injera bread. If it's your first experience, be prepared for unusual and delicious flavor combinations, a touch of spice and a communal eating experience. Just be sure to wash your hands and don't look for your missing fork; you're not supposed to have one. A touch of magic will send a wet cloth to your table before you tuck in. You'll see what I mean...
Go hungry and be prepared to leave full: Injera is heavy stuff. I recommend starting with a drink of Tej, a traditional Ethiopian honey-wine, to get the party started.
Toukoul is also a bar and cultural venue and regularly hosts concerts by upcoming local musicians. See their website for details. In case your Ethiopian evening leaves you wanting more of the country, fortunately Brussels can also boast a fantastic Ethiopian coffee house (see Aksum article).
About this spot
Find your way with 294 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Brussels
Crèmerie Saint-Guidon
Buy back in time
At Crèmerie Saint-Guidon all the delicacies are personally selected: Brussels salted cheese and the famous ‘pottekees’; large eggs and delicious bread...
by
Davy
Verbeke
The Wild Lab
Healthy vegetarian breakfast
“The Wild Lab” in Brussels makes perfect vegetarian breakfasts for those lazy mornings…
by
William
Mertens
Chicago Café
My go-to brunch spot
"Chicago Café" is my favorite brunch spot in Brussels! They offer all-day breakfast & brunch and I recommend coming with friends - the portions are huge!
by
Charlotte
Mewis
Le Conteur
Middle-Eastern Flavors
Dishes come with bold and rich flavors, which blend different cultures and cuisines. Our choices fell on some mezze, including a tasty paprika hummus...
by
Emilia
D'Ettorres
Nightshop
Natural Wines in Sainte-Catherine
Standing in front of what looked like an open garage, a busy wine bar like no other was waiting for me. Looking at it, I was mesmerized...
by
Emilia
D'Ettorres
Jardin des Sculptures
My zen place in Brussels
"Jardin des Sculptures" in Brussels is a little green oasis that forms a perfect combination of nature and arts. A true hidden gem...
by
Charlotte
Mewis
Cement Truck
Not your average piece of art
"Cement Truck" by Wim Delvoye is a unique piece that's a scaled-down model of a cement truck constructed in the Flemish Baroque style. An ode to opposites!
by
Charlotte
Mewis
Place Sainte-Catherine
Vibrant square in Brussels
"Place Sainte-Catherine" is one of Brussels' most characteristic zones, and although tourists love it, locals love it even more for its versatility!
by
Charlotte
Mewis
Monk Bar
Bar with a surprise in the back
"Monk Bar" Brussels has it all: a very wide selection of beers, cocktails, a nice terrace, live music on Saturdays AND a spaghetti restaurant out back!
by
Charlotte
Mewis
Heading to Brussels?
294 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 294 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Brussels
Our team loves Brussels
Get to know our other Spotters from Brussels
As featured on:
