Brussels has Michelin stars in its dining universe

Brussels is for foodies. There are fine restaurants for all tastes and budgets, and new ones keep opening. Discover a sampling of this city's discreet culinary pleasures.

Bon-Bon: Chef Christophe Hardiquest describes his restaurant, which boasts a Michelin star, as a "salon d'artisan cuisinier," or an artisan chef's workshop. The Contemporary French gourmet fare is surprising, and the menu is created from what produce is available and the chef's imagination. Savor such wonders as a bloody-mary sorbet, a scallop carpaccio or a luscious mound of line-caught sea bass covered in oysters. It's located on a leafy avenue, and the evening crowd is elegant. In fine weather, it's wise to reserve for lunch on the patio garden. bon-bon.be

Canterbury: This chic brasserie is one of the best places to sample Belgian specialties, including shrimp croquettes with crunchy deep-fried parsley, and waterzooi, a creamy chicken and vegetable stew. The portions are generous, and the service is politely efficient. The interior is all chrome, wood and leather, while the large, shaded terrace is besieged in summer.

Jaloa: This Michelin one-star restaurant is housed in a 17th-century building, but its decor is modern and the cuisine contemporary. Chef Gaetan Colin composes daily tasting menus of four, six or nine courses that may include delicacies such as king crab open ravioli with crunchy leeks and coriander in a shellfish broth or veal tartare prepared with herbs, flowers, sour cream and caviar. restaurantjaloa.com

La Truffe Noire: A shrine to the truffle. This is classic dining in a luxury setting, with a staff that aims to pamper. For those who can splurge, don't resist the whole Perigord truffle cooked in its juice and Port wine. Go overboard and order the creme brulee filled with apples and truffles and served with vanilla ice cream flavored with even more fungi. truffenoire.com

Midi Station: Located in a train station, this cavernous complex with a brash, postmodernist decor features several dining areas, a seafood bar and a cigar lounge. Sample the hearty dishes based on regional produce, such as Ardennes ham with mustard sauce and seasonal vegetables. The beef, free range and grass fed, is provided by star local (Irish) butcher Jack O'Shea. midistation.eu

Odette en Ville: This stylish restaurant is located in a boutique hotel. The dining area consists of a long room in subdued grays and whites with mirrored walls and the kitchen at one end behind glass. The cuisine is French, featuring classics such as Tartare de Boeuf au Couteau and roast cod. Chez-odette.com

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