Senza Nome

In Italy, they don’t joke about the notion of ‘family’. Nadia and Giovanni Bruno are living proof of this, having taken on their parents’ place. And they have whipped up for them nothing less than one of only two Italian restaurants in Brussels with stars. Sometimes the badge leads to a stilted establishment... but not in this case. Even the location makes a statement against any suggestion of food format, tucked as this venue is behind the royal church of Sainte-Marie. It’s a real family enterprise, and Giovanni Bruno has an unerring instinct for the best produce and complete confidence in his choices.
The evidence of this spontaneous approach can be seen in the menu – relatively short and guided by the seasons. His variations on the risotto are exemplary, as are the sardines beccafico or the way he works with meat, respecting its nobility. We are lucky to find – on this side of the Alps – such culinary authenticity, matched by the intimate décor which is in no way haughty. The soft tones and smooth materials invite total relaxation.