We had a short drive from Ypres to Brussels. It was an easy drive until we drove into Brussels tunnels and the gps wouldn’t work. It was easy enough to find our way out though once we came out of one and could see the exit on the gps before it was lost again.
We had an Airbnb this time so we could chill and get some washing done. Which is exactly what we did.
We went out for a quick lunch which was a waffle burger restaurant called Hashtag. Waffles as buns with grilled chicken, lettuce, red onion and spicy mayo. It was good! And we had our first Belgium frites.
While there we discovered that we were back to speaking French, the waitress explained that the north of Belgium was Dutch speaking while the South is French. Apparently it’s an ongoing controversial subject.
On the way home we found a supermarket for some supplies. We were craving a simple meat and veg dinner. We had that simple dinner, watched TV and went to bed. Just like home.
The next day we had a food tour which we find is always the best way to see a city.
Our guide took us through many cobble stoned streets to some amazing and yummy food stops.
It was then time for dessert.
The last stop was my favourite. A hot waffle. It reminded me of a hot cinnamon donut. It was a special type of waffle made in the town of Leige. I think the difference is that they are made from brioche dough and the sprinkle of icing sugar on both sides before cooking in the waffle iron. Soooo good.
After the food tour we were so full we needed to walk off the food coma.
One of the things to see is the symbol of Brussels – the Manneken Pis. It is a small bronze fountain sculpture of a naked little boy urinating. There was a huge crowd looking at the naked little boy who today was dressed up in what we think was a Haitian farmer? It is regularly dressed up and has around 1000 different costumes. It would be something to watch him being dressed!
After the little naked boy we needed beer. We went to The Belgium Beer World Experience! This small country has more than 100 breweries and produces more than 1000 different types of beer!
So we now know how to make wine, champagne and beer!
On our last day we had nothing booked so we had a day to explore. We went walking around the Dansaert and St Catherine areas. It had a real local downtown feel to it with lots of murals and arty shops.
Steve googled local treasures and found La Bellone. It was built in the early 18th century and has a very interesting and impressive facade. It is hidden in behind a modern building with a domed glass roof over it. The house is now dedicated to the performing arts. The courtyard space is beautiful and where performances are held.
When we emerged from looking at La Bellone the streets were starting to come alive getting ready for lunch. We were recommended to go to Noodzee a seafood place which was closed being a Monday. But maybe that was a good thing because we found the most amazing seafood tapas place right across the road. If you are ever in Brussels you must go to ABC Mateos Poisonnerie.
The kitchen was at the front. A bbq and a deep fryer.
It was the best octopus we’ve ever had and Steve had his Moules. (no frites but that was ok because we had already had plenty.)
After lunch we went back to Grand Place to get some souvenirs and enjoy the sun.
And on the way home we checked to see if Manneken Pis had a new outfit.
We had a wonderful time in Brussels. It was nice to slow down after a busy few days.