Fugazi

Fugazi? That’s the word Johnny Depp’s character uses to describe a fake diamond in Donnie Brasco. Don’t worry, we’re not taking you for hamheads, as this bistro / counter-dining spot is only a Fugazi in name! There’s nothing inauthentic about this place from Gabriel Caridi, who had the audacity to alchemize Parisian, Italian and American influences for the perfect mix of flavors executed by chef Vincent Lauwers. And on the plates, the boldness is contagious with Milanese-style breaded chicken served with white cabbage, mortadella, tarragon sauce and mustard seed pickles, so too for the cos lettuce salad jumbled with garlic, anchovy, Parmesan and croutons… Other options that day included octopus carpaccio with pomegranate seeds, and a chocolate hazelnut tart for a sweet touch. This is neither Rome, nor Paris and not even Manhattan, but the melting pot of flavors sure hits the nail on the head! // Mireille Flocon

FEELING THIRSTY? Martial Goffin, founder of Blaes Bar, provides a thirst-quenching selection of beers (including Hazy Pale pale ale from Brasserie Norm at €5.50 for 330 ml) and naturist wines at (nearly) friendly prices: Kei, a Piedmontese sparkling wine from Cascina Elena (€39 per bottle), Bovin, a Loire red blend from Hervé Villemade (€39 a bottle)… Otherwise, there’s an alcohol-free Martini with tonic and citrus juice (€9).
PRICE: Sharing plates from €11, sides €4-6.