When I first came to Brussels as a trainee I often googled for places to eat lunch. Since the cafeteria in the European Parliament was a bit expensive and not that delicious, outside alternatives needed to be looked at.
Back in 2018, I did not find anything good. I remember there was one kebab place with a decent kebab and some food trucks, but that is it. Only now, once I started working as a full-time employee I finally found a good place to have lunch. It is delicious, it is a bit cheaper than the in-house option and it is Italian.
Enough said.
I have not always been an Italian coffee enthusiast. I like Chemex filter coffee more. Also, espresso was not my preferred choice when I lived in my home country. However, that all has changed. And in part that is due to Caffè Italiano. It has great coffee. From what I hear it is authentic. Italians living and working in Brussels tend to come for their espresso to this particular place. I would tend to believe that is a sign of quality.
I must admit that I often order a cappuccino when I go there for lunch. Why is this such a big deal? Well, recently I have been told numerous times that ordering a cappuccino after 11 AM is a bad practice. It would be okay in most places, but definitely not in an authentic Italian café. But I like cappuccino. I am not yet completely sold on espresso.
And then there is the food. The food is great. Lasagna, penne, parmigiana and various sandwiches. And all of it is delicious. All of it is authentic Italian food. I love it.
Desserts as well. Did I mention desserts? Italian desserts.
This authentic Italian place is located at Rue d’Arlon 27, 1050 Bruxelles. It serves good food, and great coffee, you pay with cash, it is almost always full and you must come early to get something to eat. Owners are lovely people to whom you give your money with joy.
See you there.
Kind regards,
Olaaf
