Racines, Brussels

One of the best Brussels addresses for enjoying authentic Italian cuisine, made with top-quality products that are very often imported directly from the boot itself. The first part of the restaurant actually doubles as a delicatessen - wine shop … a way to prolong the pleasure once you're back home. The commitment to the Slow Food movement, finally, confirms this concern for working only with what's good and genuine. The pasta is fresh, divine and obviously homemade. The recipes, rather traditional, are executed with talent, rigor and precision. The wines are mainly natural and of course from across the Alps. To top it all off, the setting is pleasant and spacious, the service very professional and friendly at the same time … and the Place Flagey neighborhood absolutely perfect if you want to extend the evening a bit. In short, a really lovely restaurant with a budget that's a touch "special occasion" but where pleasure is guaranteed to be on the menu.