Exki

Another chain of Belgian imaginative cafés are the natural, fresh, ready Exki establishments. All the food is pre-prepared and is available for take-away or eat in (at an additional cost). They also focus on bio (the European version of organic), and everything down to the obligatory square of chocolate which accompanies the café is certified organic. The faire ranges from pasta salads, sandwiches on crispy baguette, pastillas and quiche. The coffee is wonderful and they even have some varieties flavored with syrups. I always like indulging in a dessert, since the variety of pot au crèmes are perfect portions of sweet to accompany a cappuccino. The place is incredibly popular on a weekday lunchtime, interestingly the time they decide to fill the self-serve case.
http://www.exki.be/

Frederic Blondeel

Frederic Blondeel wins the prize for the most creative chocolate combinations. The cafe is the perfect stop for a coffee&chocolate boost after a day of shopping or sightseeing downtown. It's located at the old quay near St. Catherine's cathedral amid the neon flashing fish restaurants. I love this area for its combination of gritty city ambiance - there is still an old pissor next to the church - and refinement - you can get a plate of oysters with a champagne chaser right across the square. Frederic Blondeel was given high marks in the Bulletin chocolate competition this year for his unique chocolate flavors. I especially liked the cardamom and milk chocolate and the Szechwan chili was good too, but the fresh mint topped them all - hard to find in Belgium. I've noticed that the flavors change periodically so you can't always find your favorites. Frederic Blondeel has fresh roasted coffees which are served with a praline or two on the side. The ice cream also is a treat. Kevin's mom declared it the best she's ever tasted. I love the decor as well, minimalism is punctuated with beams and flourishes from Indonesia. This is becoming a stop on our visitor tour of Brussels, because although Frederic Blondeel isn't traditional Bruxelles he's an example of how some Belgians are taking a classic idea and refining it with a modern twist.



http://www.frederic-blondeel.be/