Brussels
You may think the city that houses the European Union headquarters doesn't sound particularly romantic but, once into the historic centre, you will find a fascinating combination of Flemish and French culture, architecture and gastronomy.
The centre of Brussels is perfect for those who like a leisurely stroll between intimate coffee houses, with the occasional stop at those irresistible shops specialising in mouth-watering Belgian chocolates. And the gastronomical delights don't end with the world-famous chocolate; you will find an abundance of restaurants in and around the Grand Place (Grote Markt), that are equal to those anywhere in the world, arguably even neighbouring France. Place Sainte-Catherine, known as the fish market, is an ideal location for sampling local fish, such as sole and turbot, inventively prepared by superb Belgian chefs. The Sablon, another part of the city renowned for its delicious cuisine, also boasts countless antique shops, as well as numerous café's, taverns and wine bars.
Wherever you go in Brussels, however, you will keep coming back to the Grand Place, the visually stunning square of Flemish buildings that house many of the finest restaurants the city has to offer. It's not just at the heart of the city; the Grand Place really is the heart of Brussels.
And where better to sample one of the gastronomic delights Belgium is famous for...beer! Here's what you need to know...Gueuze or Kriek Gueuze and Kriek are two essential elements of Brussels' 'zwanze'. The former, slightly acidy and mellow, is the most popular of Brussels' beers. A Brussels' brewer by the name of Gueus is said to have given it its name. Kriek is made in July by adding 60 kg of Schaerbeek flat-top cherries to each 250-litre barrel of Gueuze.
Article courtesy of cloudnine