Kom Bij Ma in Brussels, Belgium... traditional Belgian food where the locals like to eat!

After enjoying a few hours of window shopping and walking the beautiful cobblestone streets in the center of Brussels, I stopped by an English Pub and asked to see the menu.  The young bartender told me they only serve burgers.  I asked him if he could recommend a great place for mussels and he suggested I check out an area where the locals like to dine.  He was kind enough to take me outside, point me in the direction I needed to go, and said it would be about an eight minute walk. He said to look for the big church (Saint Catherine's) and that's how I would know I'm in the right place.

There are several restaurants in this particular locale, but I felt drawn to Kom Bij Ma (traditional Belgian food) after reading the entree choices on the outside menu. 

Owner, Eric Dosogne

Eric was the first person to greet me when I walked in the door.  His warmth and charm made me feel like I walked into his home.  I noticed he genuinely greeted all the customers, seated them, and served their meals too. He did the work of at least three people by himself, without skipping a beat. It was obvious he takes great pride in his restaurant and making people feel welcome. He told me the name of the restaurant, Kom Bij Ma, is Flemish and means "come with me".  The standard form of Dutch used in Belgium is almost identical to that spoken in the Netherlands, but is called Flemish.  

The walls are decorated with photos of actors, celebrities, and politicians well known in Belgium.  The restaurant is very modern, clean and cozy. 

The chicken stew in a vegetable and cream sauce (17 Euro) is under the "Belgium in your Plate" section of the menu. There is a hearty sized piece of chicken buried underneath the vegetables, potatoes, and light cream sauce.  I wondered if the chicken had been simmering in a slow cooker all day since it was so tender and falling off the bone... no knife needed!  This dish is excellent and I'd gladly come back for seconds.  There were several entrees on the menu I'd love to try. 

The majestic looking Saint Catherine church is located right across the street from the restaurant and was open until 8:00 pm.  I had enough time for a quick peek inside after dinner. 

Divine!

The Baroque tower, built in 1629,  is separate, yet adjacent to the church. 

I hope others enjoy their experience as much as I enjoyed mine!  

Salukes!  

Restaurant T Kelderke in Brussels, Belgium - November 2014

Grand Place or Grote Markt is the central square of Brussels and is considered one of the most beautiful places in the world.  

This Belgium restaurant has a strong French influence and was highly recommended by my flight attendant friend, Anne, who has dined here at least ten times in the past five years.  She said it's her favorite go-to restaurant when she's in Brussels. And the location is ideal since it's right in the Grand Place square where you're surrounded by beauty! 

Anne said her friend (living in the USA) grew up in Belgium and told her she loves coming to T Kelderke when visiting so she can experience the same kind of food her mother made at home. 

Cozy ambiance with arched brick walls and open kitchen in the background.  We  made sure we arrived early before the crowds. 

Fish Waterzooi (stew with vegetables and cream)   22,90 Euros. 

Anne ordered this popular dish which includes mussels, fish, and potatoes.  She said she prefers a tomato based seafood, however, she was eager to try something new and different. 

This is the French name of my lamb stew with potatoes, carrots and leeks. The lamb was tender and tasty, plus one of the special meals being offered that evening.  Very filling, indeed!

Even though the chef was busy cooking, he kept a watchful eye on the patrons, even leaning over and inquiring about our meals.  After dinner I told him about my blog, so he invited me in the kitchen for a photo.  Very friendly staff!

Magnificent view of the square as soon as we stepped out of the restaurant!  

Beautiful cobblestone streets lined with the best shopping!

Anne in front of the famed Godiva store!

We couldn't resist a little chocolate before heading back to the hotel!  

Tips:  

No advance reservations

Credit cards are accepted

A menu in English is available