Brussels’ cultural landscape keeps reinventing itself, and these new venues are perfect proof. Right in the heart of the city, the Frietmuseum pays homage to one of Belgium’s crispiest icons. Learn the secrets behind the making of the perfect fry, discover the history of our Belgian chips… and enjoy!

A little further on, in the Toots Jazz Club, it’s all about saxophones and harmonicas. This intimate venue, dedicated to the memory of Toots Thielemans, offers a musical journey from Brussels to New Orleans and back.

Brussels also serves as a playground for artistic experimentation. Reset Atelier, a buzzing, temporary venue, dedicates 6,000 m² to young local and European talent: exhibitions, debates, concerts, theatre… all set in a heritage building in the city centre. The same spirit lives on at Bodies in Space, an artistic incubator that offers emerging talents the freedom and space they need to create.

Finally, two major Brussels institutions have had a makeover. The KBR Museum invites you into the world of Franco-Flemish polyphony and the artistic richness of the 15th and 16th centuries. It houses an impressive collection of manuscripts from the Dukes of Burgundy. Meanwhile, the Art & History Museum, in Cinquantenaire Park, celebrates Art Nouveau and Art Deco with two stunning new galleries that were highly anticipated. 

Fancy treating your taste buds? Brussels is cooking up a five-star feast! At The Baron’s Bar x Refoodgees for instance, hidden in the sumptuous Villa Empain, Oriental brunch and Syrian dishes take you on a delicious - and socially conscious - journey! At Mimi, on Avenue Louise, Italy is reimagined every season: a menu that changes every two weeks and a cosy, intimate vibe - perfect for discerning foodies.

In the Marolles neighbourhood, Fish Tank revives an old fish shop as THE new seafood street food hotspot. Shrimp croquettes? Highly addictive. Fish burger? A delightful flavour bomb. Try it before or after a visit to the flea market. Searching for a Belgian twist? Head to Kartouche, where a former vet (yes, really) dazzles as a chef: “bitterballen” (a type of beef stew croquette), snazzy sardines, an incredible savoury waffle… In short: an authentic feast with vintage décor to boot.

In Saint-Gilles, at Charivari you're treated as family. What do they bring to the table? Well, natural wines, a sunny terrace and a next-gen bistro vibe. Cheese and charcuterie lovers, Le 17.45 is your temple: create your own platter and melt with happiness (especially on Mondays - all you can eat fondue night!).

And if you’re a true epicurean who spares no expense when it comes to fine dining, head to Eliane, Chaga or Le Petit Bon Bon. Both establishments offer exceptional menus, dreamy interiors and flavour explosions. Brussels definitely has great taste. 

Yes, window shopping here is a lifestyle! Let’s start with an icon: Filigranes. The famous Brussels bookshop has found new life inside the ultra-chic Mayfair Department Store on Boulevard de Waterloo. Nearly 150,000 books, inspiring literary events, a comforting food corner. Filigranes has become a paradise for culture lovers and design aficionados alike. For a pop and arty touch, head to Flash Capsule, a colourful concept store packed with eco-friendly design objects by over 100 Belgian and French creators. Bonus points for their tasty homemade snacks.

Close to the city centre, Psyché offers a curated selection of 100% Belgian fashion and beauty finds, while in Flagey, Hallyu immerses you in Korean culture: cosmetics, snacks, K-goodies… a one-way ticket to Seoul, no passport required!

Brussels is brimming with charming, stylish places to sip a drink (or two... or three…). Start with Nuage, in Ixelles, a cosy haven for comfort food. Snuggle into a soft armchair and sip a latte while leafing through a childhood photo album. Also in Ixelles, The Wayne Café channels an arty vibe: minimalist décor, local exhibitions and creative coffee… the perfect spot to philosophise between gallery visits.

For a delicious and design-savvy break, head to Café Modelé, a ceramic workshop where brunch meets creativity. A brunch, a hand-painted cup, and voilà - you’re an artist.

In the mood to dance while sipping a Spritz? Try GIMIC in the Marolles: a Brooklyn-style radio bar with daytime DJ sets. Prefer chic calm? Café Costermans, at the Sablon, welcomes you to a discreet gem with an elegant terrace, vintage décor and homely atmosphere.

And to end your day on a high note, climb up to Casa Alta, a rooftop perched above the Grand Casino VIAGE. Boho-chic vibes, sun-soaked playlists and a menu that smells like summer holidays.