A DAY OUT IN BRUSSELS

Being so close to Brussels we thought it would be rude not to have a day out there. Such an easy trip from Dendermonde to Brussels, half an hour on the train for only €6.50 return each. Might just be a bit more expensive in UK. Most of the day was just a bit of bimbling with a few tourists sites thrown in. We came across a great lunch spot De Noordzee in Sint-Katelijnestraat. Razor clams with garlic butter, parsley and chips, what a delight! With mayon(n)aise of course, spelt in the Belgian manner. Scampi and chips were good too, really large freshly fried prawns.

Razor Clams at De Noordzee.

A very well known Brussels speciality is of course waffles. They were never my favourite. That's not to say I don't like them it's just they never hit the spot. However......there seems to be a competition raging in the more touristy areas for the largest, most gross and Chantilly creamed offerings. I think they look disgusting. Poor little humble waffle buried down below. They are however very popular with certain ethnic groups.

A few of the many 'waffles' for sale.

Walking back to the train we passed through the Grand-Place which was arranged as a concert venue for the French festival. They have two each year one for the Flemish speaking and a quite separate one for the French speaking. No division in the population there then! Unfortunately it was not starting until later that evening. But!! a bit of a warm up was about to happen and our favourite French singer Zazie came on for a couple of numbers. We have her music but never seen her before. What a bonus. Unfortunately she was headlining so would not be on until virtually midnight. If you want to try her music find the track 'A Ma Place'.

Zazie in the Grand-Place.