Ghislaine Arabian, childhood impressions and Belgian emotions
During the induction ceremony at the Cercle des Périgourmands, the ex juror of Top Chef shared a few memories of her childhood in Belgium. Exclusive confessions!
Why is Belgium so trendy right now?
The French are rediscovering Belgium differently than the series of jokes, beer drinkers or mussel eaters. It always bothered me because it was slightly demeaning, and Belgians enjoy the good life. So what a pleasure when one is lucky enough to enjoy « l'École des Sept », incredible fashion designers or watch the runway show of « Defilé des Petits Riens »!
Please give us your addresses dear Ghislaine…
As soon as I arrive in Brussels, I feel like going to eat fries at Antoine's. Using my fingers! They are not necessarily the best in the world, but the place is a must-go. And to think of those peaceful and happy moments of my childhood, it's the best beauty cream. I also like going to the Chalet de la Forêt d'Olivier, run by Pascal Devalkeneer, for the person, whom I like a lot, and the cuisine. It's a magical place. I also drop by Bonbon because there is always someone there I know. In the country, I still go back to Sihpon in Damme, near Bruges. We used to go there with my family for the lobster and the Mystère, a fabulous frosty cake.
Amongst the best tables in Brussels, the Chalet de la Forêt is surrounded by greenery. © DR
A pleasant life style midtown and a wild beach, the seaside resort of De Haan has many fans. © DR
I am lucky, I have Belgian origins"
Ghislaine Arabian.
On which Belgian beach will you be seen this summer?
There are two seashore resorts I like a lot, plus Ostende for the ambiance of its harbor. First, there is De Haan, for its vivacity with pretty old fashioned houses and then, there is Knokke-le-Zoute. And I like to go there for the galleries and its couturiers—it's a great opening on Europe.
3 good reasons to go to Belgium?
It's a very pleasant parentheis, attaching, a country to discover and appropriate. The welcome is always very friendly, without ever been judged, but with a certain kindness and of course laughter saves everything. It is also important to visit Gand, where my mother comes from—there is still a manufacturer where you can buy mustard, and in town, time seems suspended…
What's Belgian in your restaurant les Petites Sorcières ?
Many things! À la carte, all year round there are shrimp fritters, dishes concocted with beer, Potjevleesch, Waterzooï, Hochepot, and even waffles in Winter. Clients call me and come to find these specialties they adore.
In Gand, the animation revolves around its canals, bordering typical buidlings. © DR
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