Vibe: The space is small and cozy, with no more than 10 tables and most of them set for two. The open kitchen, bright decor and friendly staff create the ambiance of a lively living room. 

Who’s picking up the check? You’ll face an agonizing choice between two menus: a €32 menu that includes a main dish, a side and two veggie plates; or a €40 option that also includes an “extra” and a dessert (the additional plate of squid with citrus and coriander was worth the splurge). The drinks menu is reasonably priced, with beers from local brewery Brasserie Illegaal, a selection of natural wines and sake by the glass or bottle. 

Spotted: A casual mix of locals, couples on dates and friends catching up. An ideal spot for an unfussy, relaxed dinner experience. 

Insider tip: If the restaurant is full, you can ask the kitchen to serve you at Dynamo, the bar next door. 

How to get there: The tram stop Albert is a three-minute walk away. To get there from the EU quarter, take the metro to Porte de Hal, then change onto the 3 or 4 tram in the direction of Churchill. From Ixelles, take the 97 tram from Place Stephanie to Lombardie — it’s a five-minute walk from there.

— Review published on February 8, 2024. Illustration by Dato Paruvala for POLITICO.