The first Belgian cookery writers regularly described the Ilôt Sacré as the “Belly of Brussels”. Nowadays, opinions are more qualified. The district’s touristic implosion has not enhanced its reputation of times gone by. And yet...

And yet, establishments working for culinary rehabilitation, even if few and far between, are indeed to be found there. Among them, one can without the slightest doubt mention the Vieux Bruxelles: one of the Institutions of Belgian cuisine in Brussels. Kitchens open on to the restaurant. Produce of exceptional quality. Refined dishes worthy of the “greatest” houses.

And the menu is not short of opportunities for convincing you: a shucking bench worthy of the fishmonger stands of the coast, meat that merely awaits your preference in terms of cooking, produce prepared with respect and inventiveness and finally some of the great classics.

As many delights which, if they charm the tourists, also enchant Brusselers, fans of banquets, and those who appreciate the joys of other culinary get-togethers.