When Pieter Ericx, a stalwart of the nightlife scene, and Terence McGarrity, a rising star in the culinary world (with experience in Dubai and South Africa), dropped Paroles Paroles near Ostend’s train station, sparks sure did fly! The concept? Sharing plates bursting with a thousand and one flavors, zig-zagging from the Mediterranean to Asia, via Africa and Latin America. And the buzz even extends to the decor, from the stunning chandelier that beckons you to the bar, to the restrooms tucked away in a chapel. Yes, a chapel! Vegetarians, carnivores and fish fiends alike will all find something to swoon over on a menu that’s constantly evolving. The day we went, we savored: Ostend oysters, lamb tacos and chargrilled mushroom skewers. But the real magic, however, comes in the seasonal dishes, where Terence works his culinary wizardry, pairing wild duck with winter carrots or venison fillet with parsnips. With plates this generous, sharing them quickly becomes a delicious challenge. · Anita Kane

FEELING THIRSTY? A wide selection of mocktails and cocktails (€10-14), in addition to an array of beers and beautiful wines with a penchant for France, Austria and Spain: verdejo, rosé from the Luberon, vermentino and a slightly red colheita from the Vinha Paz winery in Portugal.

PRICE: Sharing plates €15-24, sides €5-9.