Zotte Mouche

A relative newcomer to the restaurant scene in Brussels is Zotte Mouche which will go down a storm for those who hanker after a bit of nostalgia.

As they could not celebrate when they opened due to the pandemic, the owners decided to celebrate their first anniversary instead. To mark the first birthday, the owner held a musical fanfare on Brussels' Grand Place followed by a Belgian beer tasting and live music at the bistro/bar.

The setting

With its retro style Zotte Mouche, part of the Ricotta & Parmesan group and located just round the corner from the Grand Place, is a "revisited" Belgian-style bistro which oozes ambience.

Music is particularly important at this authentic Brussels bistro with songs, especially by the likes of Brel, Brassens and Annie Cordy, from the 1960s to 1990s adding to the atmosphere. There's also live music on Thursdays, Friday and Saturday evenings under the auspices of a resident DJ.

Look out in particular for the walls which are full of an incredible collection of LP vinyl covers while the tables and stools have been built with beer bins, all designed to add to the friendly atmosphere in this old-fashioned pub.

This place tries to offer something for everyone and, because Belgium is rich in brasseries, each month a different brewery (and its beers) will be honoured.

The food

When it comes to food, it is once again Belgium and some typical recipes of yesteryear that come under the spotlight. Dishes include cheese fondue, homemade Herve cheese, stoemp and old-fashioned veal blanquette. As you'd expect there is also a great range of Belgian beers.

A spokesman said, "Zotte Mouche wishes to immerse its customers in an authentic atmosphere, where nostalgia and sharing take on their full meaning. We want it to be a place where life is good, where you can laugh and relax, around a good beer and a comforting dish. The perfect place to remember all the richness of the Belgian terroir."

Practical information

• It is open 7/7, from 10am to 10.30pm.
• Address: Zotte Mouche, 47 rue de l'Ecuyer, Brussels
• website

Article by Martin Banks

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