Sablon
It is the heart of the historic city.
At the bottom of the Place du Grand-Sablon is a pedestrian : Rue de Rollebeek. It is lined up with charming little boutiques, including a few antique shops, the famous biscuit maker Dandoy, as well as Charlotte aux Pommes, for its flair for the best fashion designers in women clothes and accessories: Jean-Paul Gaultier, Prada, Jill Sander. It is often said that Belgian chocolate is the best in the world... On the place du Sablon, you are spoiled for choices. There are the traditional chocolate maker Neuhaus is constantly developping new recipes while maintaining its quality and a 150 years old tradition. Pierre Marcolini, has the favour of the media and presents his creations in a spectacular concept store. And Wittamer, not only a chocolate maker but also and foremost one of the best pastry and ice-cream makers of the capital. The Wittamer family operates since 1910, has built an international reputation, and been appointed Royal Court supplier.
On Place du Sablon, the antiques district, do not miss the famous Sablon antiques market on weekends. This area is an ideal place to stroll. Le Vieux Saint Martin, is the restaurant to be seen in and taste the typically Belgian "americain-frites" : is is rumored to be the best in town. On the same side of the street, the restaurant Lola is also a sure bet. In-between the two is Flamant’s new flagship store, a whole universe of interior design with its own restaurant. If you are looking for a gourmet dinner think of the l’ Ecailler du Palais Royal. Ideally located, overlooking the Sablon antiques market, the NH Hotel du Grand Sablon is perfect for business trips or those "antiques and chocolates shopping" week-ends. Next door, Royal Boch, the oldest Belgian manufacturer of traditional earthenware, presents its timeless collections as well as limited editions, including creations of Belgian artist Piet Stockmans. Close to the magnificent Notre Dame du Sablon church, Le Pain Quotidien invites you for breakfast or lunch. Next door, the Brussels boutique Val Saint Lambert will introduce you to the know-how of its crystal manufacturers. On the Petit Sablon, stroll in the gardens and admire its statuettes which represent the various corporations of Brussels.
Go up the Rue de la Régence towards the Palais de Justice, whose presence dominates over the city. In a XIXth century building with halfmoon windows, the restaurant Sister Act serves an epicurian and cosmopolite cuisine. On the first floor, the lounge bar will attract you with its flattering lights.
On Place Poelaert, discover its superb panoramic sight overlooking the city. Admire one of the most extraordinary restorations of Brussels: the old Jacqmotte coffee house buildings. The panoramic lift will take you to Rue Haute. At number 146, Easy Tempo is a fashionable Italian restaurant . Their truffles ravioli are a delight.
On Rue de la Régence, take time to visit the Musée d’Art Ancien and the Musée d’Art Moderne whilst stopping by The Museum Café. For a sophisticated meal, opt for the MuseumBrasserie. Its menu was overseen by Peter Goossens, the Chef at the Hof van Cleve, which boasts three stars in the Michelin guide.
Place Royale has impressive views over Mont des Arts and you’ll also find the superb Old England building, an Art Nouveau masterpiece, which today houses the Museum of Instruments. When the weather is fair, stop at MIM, a restaurant with sublime views over to the Grand’Place located on the top floor. The oldest pharmacy in Brussels is now home to Arômes et Sens, dedicated to natural products, perfumes and delicacies from all over the world. Lower down, the Palais des Beaux Arts/ Bozar designed by famous architect Horta, offers remarkable shows and exhibitions. A paradise for the art and design lover : the Bozar Shop. Open 7/7, it offers more than 10.000 art books, CDs and DVDs, an vast selection of art magazines, and orgininal gifts and gadgets. For a moment of relaxation, walk through the Parc de Bruxelles, opposite the Palais Royal. Next door, visit the Dynasty Museum.
Rue Royale, after the Rue de la Loi and its ministries, you will be won over by the shop of the most famous Belgian florist, Daniel Ost. On Rue de la Croix de Fer is Le Poulbot de Bruxelles, a delightful little restaurant whose chef is full of promises. A little further is the fine chocolate maker Mary, a tradition that dates back to 1919. A few steps away, the superb Astoria Hotel is an architectural delight. Undergoing extensive renovation, it will reopen its doors in 2010. Further on, discover the Botanique the Botanical Gardens and its superb greenhouses transformed into an exhibition space. Next to it is the Hôtel Bloom, with its bright and modern decor. Frescoes by young designers carry the floral theme in each room.
