Monik

Monik? It’s a bit more fun than boring old Monique, the name belonging to Justine Milcamps’ grandmother, after whom she named her restaurant-deli back in 2021 (hardwood floors, cozy alcoves, white and navy blue tones – right down to the enamel tableware). There, you’ll find self-taught chef Marie de Radiguès in the kitchen, concocting a menu which rotates every two months. The day we went, it featured: pumpkin velouté; coconut milk ramen; endive gratin; and a mixed plate showcasing the deli counter’s offerings – plump meatloaf, tender endives, hummus, new potatoes, green beans, grilled eggplant and a herby yogurt sauce. And before setting sail, a slice of comforting peanut butter lava cake for the win. As for brunch: boiled eggs, AOP Comté cheese and charcuterie, homemade pancakes with seasonal fruit and maple syrup, brioche French toast with wild flower honey… // Timotea Persil

FEELING THIRSTY? Homemade lemonade or iced tea (€4), Zinnebir beer from La Senne brewery (€3.80), a few wines – an organic Rhône red from the Château de Montfrin estate (€5.50 a glass), a white Sicilian grillo from Villa Carumé winery (€22 a bottle), and coffee from Belga&Co in Antwerp (espresso, chai or matcha latte, €2.50 to €4.70).

PRICE: Soups €6.90, dishes €17.90, €11-16 and desserts €3 to €3.50 at brunch.