Uccle
Charming neighbourhoods where shops and homes go side by side.
Avenue Winston Churchlll, at the entrance to the Bois de la Cambre, the sculpture "L'Accueil" by artist Olivier Strebelle seems to watch over the destiny of the Brasseries Georges. Its timeless Parisian brasserie decor, and the "banc d'écailler" (seafood counter) that made its fame will delight fans of sea-food and fish, while meats from the famous Luc butcher will cater to the appetite of meat-lovers. And everyone agrees that, with four different cooking modes on the menu, you are bound to try the traditional French fries. The ones fried in olive oil are simply divine.
Take the Avenue Winston Churchill. At the roudabout, turn into Rue Leo Errera, and discover the Van Buuren Museum. This Art Deco house, with its poetic gardens, was the home of art collecors David and Alice Van Buuren.
Rue Edith Cavell, and discover an old farm dating from 1627: Le Hoef, one of the oldest restaurants in Brussels. Go for the décor and its chargrilled steaks. Over the road you’ll find Arômes et Sens, a brand new boutique with 100% natural products, devoted to tastes and smells from around the globe. Next door is Botanica, a little shop packed with plants and flowers. Alain, the florist, is always happy to help you turning a lawn into a garden or an apartment into a flowers-filled home. Further down,Camille Albane, the famous parisian hairdresser has opended a hair and beauty temple. Next door, 5ème Saison is a gallery and events planner, where Daniel Camus exhibits the work of his favourite artists, as well as design furniture. Further down, right before the corner of Avenue de Fré, a good surprise for the chocolate lovers : the traditional chocolate maker Mary has just opened a store, full of delicious and tempting treats.
Turn left into the Avenue de Fré, and then left again onto Chaussée de Waterloo. At No 864, try Vini Cucina. In its beautiful minimalist décor, chef Claudio Damiano re-invents Italian cuisine on a daily basis. From the simplest pizza to the most complex dishes, everything is a hit and the antipasti are superb. In the summer, dining in the shades of trees in a beautiful terrace-garden with a holiday atmosphere, adds to your pleasure.
Make a half-turn, in direction of Waterloo. After crossing the avenue De Fré, discover the world of Twin, the ultimate funshop with a wide range of products to delight fans of surf, snowboard, and extreme sports. At the Vert Chasseur, on chaussée de Waterloo, the oldest hand-made candle maker Gommers carries on a family tradition that dates back to 1863. At No 950, Essentiel displays its range for women and children. Next door, the new and lovely Clair de Femme. This boudoir presents refined jewels by Cecile Clou, rare perfumes and sensual candles. Opposite, the boutique Vert Chasseur offers a good selection for both Belgian and international fashion names. Further down, Soho, a confidential address, where the hip clothes seen in fashion magazines are coveted by the happy few. On 1120 chaussée de Waterloo, the Thaï cuisine of a timeless classic that is still highly popular, the first ever opened Blue Elephant. Avenue Latérale, Wenda is for the young women who favours timeless style. Spend a moment with Jacques Weemaels, who displays his personalised tableware and latest artistic designs in a workshop/loft. Over the road you’ll find Bellerose, with its casual collection and unusual accessories. Opposite is Bruphils, where the whole collections is displayed. At Prince d’Orange on the Chaussée de Waterloo, Le Rallye des Autos is a brasserie where the young hip crowds hang out. Next door, the very exclusive gym and spa David Lloyd, helps you maintain a toned and healthy body in the surroundings of a magnificent castle. Next door, the Archimede boutique presents an adorable range of kids and babies beachwear, including the famous buoyancy swimsuit. Hungry ? Indulge yourself at the new Brasserie du Prince d’Orange, its stunning décor is worth the detour. Further south, on Avenue de Kersbeek, don't miss Aquamass : its exclusive collection of bathtubs and spas is making balneotherapy a new form of art.
