Oriental Restaurants in Brussels

If you’re craving something with a bit of fire, fragrance, or just a taste that’s different from the usual, Brussels has a surprisingly solid lineup of Oriental restaurants. And by Oriental, I mean the varied cuisines you’d find across the Middle East and nearby regions , think Lebanese mezze, Syrian grills, Persian stews, and North African tagines.

One of my go-to areas for this is around Sainte-Catherine, where you can pop into places like Le Méchoui or La Porte d’Orient. They’re not tourist traps but proper neighborhood spots where locals actually eat. Be sure to try the mixed grill or a rich lamb shoulder here. Oh, and the hummus that’s whipped fresh daily? It’s ridiculous how good it is.

Street-wise, you can’t miss the tiny falafel stands around Dansaert if you’re after something quick, but if you want to sit down and enjoy a soothing cup of mint tea alongside a fragrant couscous, head a bit further out to Ixelles or Saint-Gilles. Tip: some of the best Oriental places in Brussels get packed on weekends, so snagging a reservation or showing up early can save you a wait. Plus, many spots have secret specials or dishes that don’t even make the menu, so don’t be shy to ask the server what they recommend.