Olivier Poels: my top addresses in Brussels

Who is Olivier Poels ?

Born in Brussels, in 1971, Olivier Poels dreamt of France, with admiration and envy, as others dream of America. Coming to Paris always seemed obvious to him. Just like Jacques Brel, whom this francophone identifies with, this is where he would end up one day, even if he has kept family ties in Louvain-la-Neuve, located in the Wallonia region. A dream come true, since this Belgian, who does not take himself seriously, made the right connections that enabled him to joing the gang of Laurent Mariotte in the radio talk show "Les Bons Vivants", on Europe 1, as well as in the editorial offices of La Revue du Vin de France and the Parisien, where each week it is possible to share his passion for gastronomy and wine.

His favorite restaurant in the Belgian capital

La Taverne du Passage, in the Galerie de la Reine. "I feel nostalgic about this very old typical institution where I used to go with my parents. There I enjoy eating a deep dish pie called vol au vent, shrimp croquettes and mousse of ham from the Ardennes in a bistro-style ambiance." www.taverne-du-passage.be

Between its landmark skylight and tempting menus, the Belga Queen is a cultural and gourmet attraction of its own. © DR

Where to go for a drink in Bruxelles ?

At Belga Queen. "Surmounted by a majestic skylight, this brasserie is installed in a former 18th century bank. While it's not the best cuisine in town, the place is great to come meet up with friends, nibble on tapas and roguish seasonal dishes." www.belgaqueen.be

For tea time, it's Maison Dandoy, of course

Maison Dandoy. "It's not very original, but I like to go right near the Grand Place, at Dandoy. Impossible to resist their hot chocolate, waffles and spéculoos covered with black chocolate—it epitomizes my childhood and my youth. I'm wild about all this!" maisondandoy.com/fr/

For Olivier Poels, it's out of the question to miss the waffle and chocolat rendezvous of this iconic house. © DR

His gourmet market to cook at home

Rob. "It's the equivalent of the Bon Marché Epicerie in Paris, with perfectly well sourced products. Spanning 1400 m², all the food trades, incuding wines, are represented here, Belgian and French. I like to pick up my supplies from the shelves when I am cooking in Brussels." www.rob-brussels.be

All the appellations in the world and the most prestigious tags are featured in the racks of this famous cellar. © DR

His wardobe shopping address!

Bouvy. "For a little wardrobe renewal, I go to Avenue Louise, the chic artery. All the Belgian designers, the leading French and international designers are there, but also Bouvy, an elegant, relaxed and multibrand menswear boutique." www.bouvy.com

Pullovers, shirts, suits, this is where the animator comes to dress in Brussels. © DR

His favorite strolls in the streets of Brussels

At Parc Josaphat and the Atomium. "When I was a kid, I used to feed bread to the ducks in the pond of the capital's green lung and had a lot of fun at the foot of the Atomium, a very spectcular building on the outskirts." visit.brussels/fr/place/Parc-Josaphat - atomium.be

Museum, cultural center, receptions space, restaurant, the Atomium is the n°1 touristic attraction on the outskirts of the European capital. © DR

Where to spend the night in Bruxelles

Hôtel Métropole. "At the heart of the city, its unique decor has a real soul. Its wood paneling tell a story. It's a little over the top, but it has a special feeling—and since it's located Place de Brouckère, in my ears, it immediately has a Jacques Brel connotation." www.metropole.com/fr

Marble columns, piano bar, superb service, the living room of this 5 star hotel is an ideal afterwork rendezvous. © DR