Ploegmans
You can’t get more authentic Brussels than in the Marolles, and their is no more “Brusseleir” than Ploegmans. This institution has existed since 1929 when it first opened as a tavern. Then, in 2006, they started offering mouth watering beef stews (carbonnade à la flamande / stofvlees) with freshly made fries and meat balls in tomato sauce. They pride themselves on their veal kidneys in mustard sauce (rognons de veau à la moutarde / kalfsniertjes in mosterdsaus), which they say are made with lots of care and listening to the owner describe them almost made me brave enough to try them next time I’m there.
All the classic Brussels dishes are present here and since it’s currently hunting season, they also has wild meats as suggestions on the menu. We tried the wild boar stew and the classic boulettes de Liège. Both were perfectly made. The stew still had a hint of red wine coming through and the boulettes de Liège were not too sweet, just right! I couldn’t help myself and went for a childhood favorite, a Brésilienne. Basically moka ice cram, caramel and nuts, but so devilishly good!
The interior is still it’s original wooden walls, tables and chairs. It’s so cozy, we could’ve stayed all evening chatting with Ali, one of the owners, a very friendly man who loves his business.
I do recommend reserving. It can get very busy, especially now that the cold is coming in, and we’re all craving a little warmth and soul food. I recommend Ploegmans without hesitation. A perfect place to chill out after a good walk in the Marolles or visiting the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle.
They’re open from Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sundays for lunch only.
