Dining

Recently, Brussels has experienced a restaurant resurgence of sorts. All of the sudden, there are numerous top-notch dining establishments to be found in the heart of the city. This is refreshing, and these great spots are being taken advantage of by locals and tourists alike. Villa Lorraine can be found at Chaussée de la Hulpe 28 (02/374-3163) and features outstanding cuisine that is devoured by countless American travelers who pass through Brussels. Some of the favorite items are quail, duckling, red mullet, and bread and meat combinations that are scrumptious. La Truffe Noire is located at Boulevard de la Cambre 12 (02/640-4422) and mixes extraordinary French and Italian cuisines perfectly. Accompanying the gorgeous restaurant is a fabulous garden. Two of the best dishes are the lamb covered with piecrust and a pigeon served with truffles.

Nightlife

Chez Moeder Lambic is located at Rue de Savoie 68 (02/539-1419) and is the premier bar for sampling Belgian beers. They claim to have 600 in stock at all times, as well as hundreds of other beers from around the world! Mirano Continental is located at Chaussée de Louvain 38 (02/227-3970) and is a flashy and stylish dance club that is quite popular.

Shopping

The shopping in Brussels is spectacular, and the best department store for Belgian style is Inno, located at Rue Neuve 111 (02/211-2111). Godiva (02/511-2537) can be found at Grand Place 22 and is the queen of fine chocolate. It seems no matter how many gift chocolate packages you buy for your friends back home, you will end up eating them all! So use discipline, but allow yourself a least a few fine morsels.