Brussels is rich in Art-Nouveau and Art-Deco jewels and it is really exciting to walk around and discover always new architectural details. It is however more difficult to visit the interiors of these buildings since most of them are open to the public in special occasions only. Musée Van Buuren is a private house that has been turned into a museum, it is therefore open all year round, just like the Musée Horta, a masterpiece of Art-Nouveau. So, if you wish to learn more about both styles in Brussels, visiting these two museums is an excellent choice.
The external architecture of Musée Van Buuren, which was built in 1928 for a banker and arts patron, is not typically Art-Deco, but once you walk across the threshold, everything reminds you of Art-Deco! Furniture, luminaires, tapestry, staircase…it is a true example of “total art”. Apparently, nothing's changed since the owners left, which gives the place a real feeling of intimacy.
I love the wonderful stained-glass windows and luminaires with geometric motifs as well as the coloured rugs throughout the house. There are also paintings of great value and just out of curiosity, in the music room stands the piano of French composer Eric Satie which I had once the chance to listen to during a concert organised by the museum.
What makes the visit of Musée Van Buuren even more pleasant is its gorgeous gardens which are considered masterpieces of landscaping. This a quiet place to relax after a journey in Art-Deco!
Find your way with 292 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
With an extravagant vintage decore, the bar takes its name from Queen Fabiola, a Spanish noblewoman who was a very beloved Queen consort of the Belgians.
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With a cozy interior and a pleasant scent of toasted coffee beans, Caleo offers different options for brunch, from viennoiseries to delicious pancakes.
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The name Nenu comes from the Vietnamese concept of “an nhau”, a style of drinking and eating culture, sharing small and large plates with friends & family.
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If you come with a group, I suggest taking the “Moriawase” (Japanese for “assortment”), a larger plate that is easier to share and to try different things.
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Peaking at my neighbors' plates, I decided to try the bass with garlic oil, ginger, and furikake, and the tartare de boeuf with pepper mousse and pickles on the side.
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The stars of the menu are the homemade fluffy pancakes - an explosion of flavors, which come in different flavors, including a tiramisu and matcha version.
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As a meat lover, I absolutely enjoyed the dishes based on Iberic pork, including the spare ribs and the Jiang Rou Bao, which literally melted in my mouth.
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At Piola the specialty of the house is the “Siciliana o’ Cornicione” pizza, but it is only for the bravest: it comes with a ricotta cheese stuffed crust.
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Mexican dishes with popular central American influences. But be ready to share: the options are way too many (and delicious) to just get one dish.
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One bite and you will forget all about your next day’s meetings or other adult-life tasks. Crispy fries and fried chicken come as an extra...
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If beer is not your cup of tea, and you fancy some charcuterie boards, then Etiquette is the place for you with its vast selection of wines from all over.
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Kaiju are giant monsters featured in Japanese fantasy and science fiction films and television programs. Once I stepped into this place, it all made sense.
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