Whisper it quietly but vegetarianism really is vogue these days in Belgium.
For a country of unadulterated meat lovers that is saying something. But figures show that one in three Belgians has at least one day a week in which they don’t eat any fish or meat.
The country may have been a bit slow to join the vegetarian party but being a veggie is no longer a niche at all here and latest data shows that vegetarianism has firmly moved out of marginality.
Even so, the number of Belgians who count themselves as veggies is still only about 7 per cent of the whole population – and that is where one Brussels eatery comes in.
The Black Sheep is doing its bit to help foster yet more enthusiasm for vegetarianism by “upping” its veggie offerings.
On its own admission, it had previously “not been strong enough” in terms of the number of veggie dishes on its meat-strong menu.
But that has very recently all changed.
This popular pub/eatery has been open some 11 years and become a “must-visit” destination, just off the ever-bustling Place Flagey.
But, partly in response to rising demand from its loyal band of customers and also out of a desire to foster healthier eating, it has now introduced a much more “veggie feel” to its menu.
So much so, in fact, that a healthy proportion of the options are vegetarian ones.
The menu, which was changed a few weeks ago, still has the old “favourites” – the burgers and fish and chips.
But it now also features, for example, a veggie sharing platter comprising falafel balls, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, cauliflower winges and “loaded” Greek chips.
There are also veggie chips/frits which, as with the other vegetarian dishes, are cooked in vegetable oil.
The overall aim is to appeal to the growing number of veggies who look for healthy options on a menu when they eat out.
This terrific place also does its bit to support local producers in Brussel and Belgium by locally sourcing the vast bulk of the products that find their way to your plate. For instance, the meat for the burgers comes from a butcher in Waterloo and the bread used here travels an even shorter distance – just a few doors away.
In fact, there are only two items that are not sourced locally (the black pudding and Scotch egg, both imported from Ireland).
It has built up a reputation for serving good, wholesome food in what is a fantastic atmosphere.
Among the best sellers on the food front is that great old British tradition, fish and chips. While its done to a “secret” recipe, suffice to say that the batter here is super light and the fries are cooked three times, the first in beer fat, so as to enhance to taste of both.
All credit, then, to chef Declan Donnelly and his hard working team for creating some very tasty (and healthy) dishes.
Declan himself is highly experienced, having worked around the globe in the U.S. Australia and Ireland.
He is ably supported by Conor, the manager who first started out with Liam, the owner, when he was just 18. Completing the Irish trio is Sean, the assistant manager who previously worked in one of the most prestigious hotels in Ireland.
Over the years it has become a hub for the local expat community in Brussels, drawn by those excellent cocktails,creamy Guinness and super fresh food.
Aside from the nice food this vibrant place is likely to appeal to most tastes. It is not open at lunch time but, from 5pm (closed Sunday and Monday).
First through the doors are likely to include people from local workplaces who may to avail themselves of one (or more) of the estimated 50 Belgian beers on offer.
These include a range of wonderful Brussels-based beers, some from the “Brussels Beer Project”, together with a nice selection of cocktails which change every six weeks or so (the current choice has an “autumn” theme).
An aperitif may then be followed by a bite to eat from a menu that includes “small plates”, “sharing plates”, burgers, wings, chicken and “classics” such as warm goats cheese salad, burrata salad and nachos. Considering the quality, the prices are very reasonable with the “O.G” burger, for instance, just €14.90.
But this is unlike most eateries in Belgium because, after a drink and/or meal, you can then let your hair down and enjoy the rest of an evening that stretches all the way through to about 1am during the week and even later (3am) on Friday and Saturday.
It really does, then, have a bit of something for everyone – and that includes veggies.
And that is one reason why it is such a success (with expats and others) and a “must-have” venue, for example, for Christmas party bookings.
In fact, if you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the festive season (or any other time come to that) look no further than this fab place at Flagey.
The Black Sheep, Chaussee De Boondael 8, Ixelles
www.theblacksheepbrussels.be
02 684 3803
