It's been a few weeks since I went to Brussels with one of my best friends. I can understand why people both love and hate this city, because there can be moments when it's not inviting at all. But somehow I like its roughness and in the midst of it we found some wonderful places.
When it comes to food, Brussels has as many different restaurants as its people nationalities. So we had a lovely Ethiopian dinner at Kokob, and found a great place for 'le petit déjeuner' called Chez Franz. I loved the bookstores we came across, bringing us comfort as we walked the rainy streets. Shops like Ptyx and Tropismes are great and you could leave me in the children's department for weeks. Ever since art school I've admired Belgian and French children's book publishers for their artistic and liberal view on picture books.
One of the most inspiring shops has to be le typographe, a letterpress studio that sells handprinted products, revealing very clean design esthetics. And finally, as a lover of flea markets, the one at Jeu de Balle and the vintage shops at rue de Blaes are a must. Make sure you bring a big van.
