Flipper’s, stop flipping out! The latest branded arrival on rowdy Rue Lesbroussart has nothing to fear: its burgers hit with a McDonald’s-level craving that, until now, only a trip to L.A. could satisfy. Behind the grill is a trio with serious chops: Julien Van Espen (former head of operations for Liège-based burger chain Huggys), Basile Stein (ex-friterie owner) and Mardeen Benjamin (son of restaurateurs). Dressed in blue shirts, red aprons and crisp, starched pants, they flip patties in a full-on American setting (think two-tone tiles, palm tree photos, backlit menus, neon pendant lights and lagoon-blue lino floors – a perfect match for the cetacean house mascot). Despite having to place your order on a slightly temptation-inducing, impersonal self-service kiosk, this joint more than makes up for it with personality: a toasted brioche bun hugging two beef patties (sourced from a cooperative of eight farmers near Brussels), not too oversmashed and layered with cheddar cheese, Magic Sauce, iceberg lettuce, sliced pickle and – alas – tomato, all coming together in a satisfyingly plump package; fries standing proudly at attention (also available loaded); and sides which include rather dispensable jalapeño-spiked cheese croquettes, nuggets or onion rings – plus vegetarian and kids’ options available. A taste of America that makes you want to rush back for more! · Laszlo Dela

FEELING THIRSTY? Coca cola and friends (€3 for 330 ml), Stella (€3.50), diner-style filter coffee (€2.50) and homemade iced tea or lemonade, as sweet as they come (€3.50).

PRICE: Set menus €10.50 to €16.50, burgers €6.95 to €12.95, fries €3.50 to €6.70, sides €4.50 to €11.80 (4 to 12 pieces), ice cream and cookies €3.50 to €4.50, kids’ menu €9.