Plek

Hidden away in the Sonian forest, in a barn reincarnated as a new-age chalet in the Groenendael priory, Plek checks all the boxes for an eco-chic retreat. Running this little corner of paradise decked out with raw wood and soft lighting, is a trio with refined taste: the multi-talented artist Lucie Mosneron, architect Xavier Houben and naturopath Lara Van Cauwenberghe, who is also the co-founder of Bambino, the Brussels-based café network. In the kitchen, chef Caroline Stevenart (ex-Tero) cooks the seasons, resulting in simple and effortlessly put together dishes. The day we went for lunch, served at the loooooong communal table: a fragrant and comforting celeriac, cauliflower and tahini soup; a hearty grilled cheese with Comté, ramps and roasted chard, crispy on the outside, oozy on the inside, served with pickles and homemade ketchup; or beef goulash cooked low and slow in a flavorful tomato sauce like you’ve never tasted before; and for dessert, chocolate cookies or melt-in-your-mouth tarte Tatin. Also worth noting are the sweet and savory snacks available throughout the day, like olives, sardines, ice cream and cakes. In short, Plek is our new happy place! // Pepi Pachov

FEELING THIRSTY? Something for everyone: filter coffee (€3), Chouette Canette mate (€4.50 for 330 ml) and amber ale or IPA from the De Ranke brewery (€4.50 for 330 ml).
PRICE: Dish of the day €19, grilled cheese €15, savory snacks €4-9, sweet snacks €3-6.