Located on the corner of place du Béguinage, with its bistro chairs, leather benches and green metro tiles, La Guinguette en Ville cleverly plays with the codes of the typical Belgian bistro. The first thing we notice as we walk by is the big outdoor terrace, where we’ll come enjoy a glass of house white on the high tables, along with a homemade shrimp croquette (10€). But not just any croquette. A unique piece, worth at least three just by itself, served with the traditional fried parsley and lemon quarter. As soon as we dive into it, a tiny grey shrimp avalanche starts flowing in our plates. A real moment of joy, that we’ll rank with no hesitation among our top three of the capital’s best garnaal kroketten.

It’s definitely Belgian and most specifically Brussels food that we eat on one of the prettiest squares of Brussels. On the menu, timeless classics such as the américain and beef steak, served with homemade fries and sauces, and on the right page, a few more elaborate suggestions. Paul Delrez, after having made his way through Henri and Rouge Tomate’s kitchens, gives room to his creativity through quality and seasonal produce. Though he has a hard time labelling his cooking, we would define it as generous and refined, and centered around pleasure itself. Adjectives that work out great to describe the white asparagus with marinated salmon and herb juice (22€), and the pluma de lomo iberico with grilled veggies and sarladaise potatoes (27€). The team is young and relaxed, and led by Claire Delrez, Paul’s little sister. Definitely a family affair for this little Guinguette, which has now been running for more than three years.