(Temporarily closed. Bistro Racines moves to Place de la Station 3 in Braine-le-Château by mid-January) This laidback bistro is proof that a MICHELIN star isn’t always synonymous with luxury. In fact, why shouldn’t it simply be a friendly establishment that serves good food, as is the case at the buzzy Bistro Racine? Jimmy Collodoro regales his guests with painstakingly sourced, premium produce. The market-fresh, seasonal dishes, chalked up on a slate, change regularly, without forgetting the house classics, such as beef grilled in a Mibrasa charcoal oven. The food is finely crafted and a tad unconventional, yet refreshingly straightforward. Unexpected details add a humorous twist, illustrated by melt-in-the-mouth mackerel marinated in beetroot juice, flanked by slow-roasted beetroot and whipped horseradish cream to jazz things up. Or you might taste a crunchy meringue, smothered in vanilla custard and topped with chestnut purée and a sweet potato cream. 100% authentic food that surprises and hits the spot every time, whilst remaining blessedly free of prissy, play-it-safe food. Don’t miss the lunchtime menu, which is a steal!