North of Brussels

The world is getting smaller and Saint-Joost-ten-Noode is a great example of this. Some 60 languages are spoken in Brussels’ smallest commune. Saint-Josse is also an architectural wonder. Its prestigious squares, lined with Art Nouveau gems, are now very popular with officials from the nearby European Quarter. Another gem in the landscape is Friterie Saint Josse chip shop on place Saint Josse. The shop has been a family business since 1931. Recently, Martin, the captain, passed the reins to Palma to enjoy a well-deserved retirement. It was a huge challenge, but Palma rose to the occasion: Saint Josse's chips never fail to delight.  

Increasingly popular with Brussels locals because of its country atmosphere and green spaces, Jette more than holds its own compared with its cousins in the south of the capital. And this breath of fresh air in the north-west of Brussels has more than a few tricks up its sleeve. From the Magritte studio house, which immerses you in the painter’s surrealist daily life, to an authentic reconstruction of the Lourdes grotto, Jette takes you off the beaten track. And for those who like their chips chunky and their locals welcoming and authentic, head to place Cardinal Mercier for the generous chips of Big Moestasje.  

Want to combine culture, entertainment and nature? Then make your way to the Heysel! Just a stone's throw from the Royal Estate, you have a choice: take a tour of the continent at Mini-Europe, fly through the stars at the Planetarium... or climb into the giant spheres of the Atomium. Between sights, the lawns of the many parks in the district offer an irresistible invitation to kick back and relax, or even to have a picnic... which will be all the more delicious with some golden chips from Vandervaeren chip shop, conveniently located at the foot of one of Brussels’ iconic monuments: the Atomium!  

A tour of the chip shops in Brussels would not be complete without a visit to Neder-Over-Heembeek. This tiny commune, or rather village, is part of Brussels yet already feels the countryside. To get there, head north, where your little ones can (re)discover life at Nos Pilifs’ educational farm.

And at Peter Benoit Square, you can satisfy your craving for chips. Jef and his daughter Manu, who run the chip shop together, welcome you with their generous smiles and their legendary chips... Close your eyes and enjoy!