Head’s up, there’s hidden gem on the horizon! Down a stress-inducing alley bordering the Strombeek-Bever ring road, here simmers one of the most legendary bolognese spots in the kingdom. It owes its fame to its longevity (more than 40 years of activity), its humongous portions (the maxi bowl would be enough to satisfy the local football team), its zany owner (Jean-Pierre Bate, alias Pee Klak), its hemp-paneled walls covered with posters of old films (including one for Les vécés étaient fermés de l’intérieur), its waiters in embroidered waistcoats… as well as its peppery bolognese sauce, made with just the right amount of mince. That evening, arriving in a plastic dishwasher rack before being placed on the table next to a Baleine salt tub, a “normal” portion (LOL) of the iconic bolognese, as well as a more modest dishful of spaghetti doused in a rich cheesy bechamel sauce and topped with chunks of ham, which is no less worth a detour. With a doggy bag in a plastic tray under your arm, you leave happy, stuffed to the brim and armed with plenty to eat the next day. A vanilla-mocha tartuffo for dessert? No, thank you… // Rosa Poulsard

FEELING THIRSTY? Basic liquid assets: Primus pilsner (€3.20 for a half), Mort Subite gueuze (€3.80) or pricey still water (€2.90 for a small glass!).

PRICE: Pasta €13.50 (small €9.50, maxi €18), extra grated cheese €3.90, extra sauce €7.50 to €10, desserts €7.50.