Doing the business in Brussels

The Bruxellois talk about the latest and best restaurants like the Brits discuss the weather. It’s an obsession! Plan for a lengthy lunch break and be prepared; Belgians are not averse to a midday glass of wine (or two). Evening meals are enjoyed at around 7pm – even 7.30pm is considered late. If the service is excellent, tip ten percent.

Classic choice - Comme chez Soi
One of the best, if not the best French restaurant in Brussels, gourmet Comme Chez Soi hosts intimate banquets, perfect for discreet business discussions.
Website: commechezsoi.be

Blue sky thinking - Dinner in the Sky
Make an event of a business meeting or VIP event and dine at a table suspended 50 metres high.
Website: dinnerinthesky.com

Team building – Notos
This convivial, high quality Greek restaurant is a favourite with politicians. The whole Belgian Government dined there in early 2008.
Website: notos.be


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Of course the most classic and impressive hotel in Brussels remains the Hotel Amigo, with its prime Grand’Place location and palatial interior. But this town is renowned for its discreet designer hotels, blending business musts, such as wifi and sleek restaurants, with smooth service. If possible, avoid trips to Brussels during convention season, between April-June and September-November, when hotels fill up early and rooms can treble in price.

Close to the Gare du Midi - Be Manos
Close to the Eurostar terminal, Be Manos is a cocoon of comfort tucked away on an unpromising looking square. Inside, find a stylish restaurant, cocktail bar, spa and spacious rooms with wifi.  Find out more

Near the Grand’Place - Dominican
Centrally located, a short hop from the Grand’Place and the Opera House, this is one of the newest design hotels to spring up in Brussels.  Find out more

Less is more - White Hotel
This minimalist design hotel is very reasonably priced, and near the prestigious Avenue Louise.  Find out more


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Conference centres and meeting rooms featuring state-of the-art facilities abound in the capital of Europe. Make your choice: sober, quirky or intimate?

Sophisticated - Event Brewery
A super sleek, concrete and metal structure set over four floors, this converted brewery is a corporate temple to events, from intimate meetings to the wildest of PR stunts.
Website: eventbrewery.com

Jewel in your crown - Concert Noble
Built in 1873, this venue is a succession of lavish banquet halls. There’s also a sumptuous ballroom lit by crystal chandeliers.
Website: concertnoble.com

No nonsense - Federation of Enterprises in Belgium (FEB)
All rooms are equipped with the essentials; wifi, giant screens and flipcharts at this no-frills business centre near the Grand’Place.
Website: vbo-feb.be


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Compact Brussels is an easily walkable city.

A “ticket jump” allows you to travel on the metro, buses and trams for an hour from first use.

Taxi drivers won’t expect a tip but always round up the fare.

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