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/