Cafe Brussels

- 1718 Houston Ave, Houston, TX 77007

In a city where barbecue and Tex-Mex reign supreme, finding an authentic taste of Europe is a delightful surprise. Cafe Brussels, nestled in a cozy spot in Houston's First Ward, is a true gem that brings the heart of Belgium to Texas. This women-owned restaurant, helmed by Belgian native Catherine Duwez, offers a culinary journey through traditional Belgian fare, from classic mussels and frites to a wide array of Belgian beers and wines. It’s a place that feels both romantic and casual, where you can unwind in a welcoming environment that's perfect for a quiet date night, a celebratory dinner, or a relaxed weekend brunch.

Cafe Brussels is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience. The interior decor, with its charming Belgian signs, pop art, and clocks, transports you to a European cafe, while the warm and friendly service makes you feel right at home. The menu is a comprehensive guide to Belgian comfort food, showcasing dishes like the hearty Carbonades à la Flamande, savory grilled sandwiches, and a variety of perfectly prepared omelettes. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in every dish, ensuring that both Belgian expatriates and curious Houstonians get an authentic taste of the country's cuisine.

What sets Cafe Brussels apart is its ability to create a consistent and memorable experience. Patrons rave about the amazing food and friendly staff, with one reviewer noting that the server "recommended the best dishes" and another feeling "so welcomed." This dedication to hospitality, combined with a menu of consistently delicious food, makes Cafe Brussels a beloved institution in Houston. It’s a place that has built a reputation for its great food, impeccable service, and a charming ambiance that's hard to find anywhere else.

Cafe Brussels is conveniently located in Houston's vibrant First Ward, making it accessible to both locals and tourists exploring the city. You can find this charming eatery at 1718 Houston Ave, Houston, TX 77007, USA. Its location provides easy access from downtown and other central Houston neighborhoods. The restaurant's charming, tucked-away feel adds to its allure as a discovery-worthy dining spot.

Accessibility is a priority for the restaurant, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests. Cafe Brussels features a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible parking lot, a wheelchair accessible restroom, and wheelchair accessible seating. This makes it a great choice for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, the restaurant offers both a free parking lot and free street parking. For those with furry friends, the restaurant is also pet-friendly, with dogs allowed outside in the outdoor seating area. The combination of a central location and excellent accessibility makes Cafe Brussels a practical and welcoming destination for everyone.

Cafe Brussels offers a variety of services to provide a flexible and accommodating dining experience. These services are designed to meet the diverse needs of its patrons, whether they're looking for a quick meal or a leisurely dinner.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full ambiance of the restaurant with a classic sit-down meal. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available, which is perfect for enjoying a nice day or evening.
• Takeout: For those who prefer to eat at home, the restaurant offers takeout service, allowing you to enjoy their authentic dishes on the go.
• Accepts Reservations: To guarantee a table, especially during peak hours, the restaurant accepts reservations. This is a great feature for planning a special outing or dining with a group.
• Table Service: The staff provides attentive table service for a professional and enjoyable dining experience.

These services highlight the restaurant's commitment to customer convenience and satisfaction, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Cafe Brussels stands out in the Houston dining scene because of its unique features and highlights. These elements go beyond the menu and contribute to its identity as a truly special place to eat.

• Great Beer Selection and Wine List: A major draw is the restaurant's extensive selection of authentic Belgian beers and a quality wine list. This makes it a prime spot for beer enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs.
• Authentic Belgian Cuisine: The menu features genuine Belgian dishes not commonly found in Houston, such as a variety of Moules (Mussels), Croquettes, and the famous Waterzooi.
• Great Coffee and Dessert: The restaurant offers a fantastic selection of coffee and desserts, including classic Belgian waffles and crepes. It’s an ideal place to end a meal or for a simple coffee and dessert outing.
• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is consistently praised as being cozy, romantic, and trendy. The decor and lighting create a perfect setting for a special date or a quiet evening.
• Family-Friendly and Inclusive: Cafe Brussels is noted for being family-friendly with a kids' menu and high chairs. It is also an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, fostering a welcoming environment for all.
• Live Music and Ambiance: The restaurant occasionally features live music, which adds to the charming and lively atmosphere, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

These features create a holistic dining experience that is both delightful and unique, setting Cafe Brussels apart as a must-visit destination.

For more information, to make a reservation, or to simply get in touch, here is the contact information for Cafe Brussels.

• Address: 1718 Houston Ave, Houston, TX 77007, USA
• Phone: (713) 222-6996

It is highly recommended to call ahead for reservations, especially on weekends or for dinner service, to ensure you get a table at this popular establishment.

When you're looking for a special dining experience in Houston, what makes Cafe Brussels the right choice? It’s the seamless blend of authenticity, hospitality, and an incredible menu. As one satisfied customer noted, the food is "absolutely delicious" and the experience was so positive that they would "definitely be returning and recommending to everyone." Another reviewer praised the Croque Madame for being "very filling" and the overall ambiance as "charming." These reviews, along with the detailed menu, showcase why this restaurant is a local favorite.

The extensive and authentic menu is a huge draw. For starters, the Escargots de Bourgogne and various Croquettes offer a true taste of Belgian cuisine. The Moules, which come in a variety of delicious preparations like Moules Diable and Moules au Roquefort, are a standout and a must-try. The main courses, from the classic Chicken Marsala to the authentic Carbonades à la Flamande, are a testament to the chef's skill and commitment to tradition. And let's not forget the incredible dessert menu, with authentic Belgian Waffles and Crêpe Suzette, which are a perfect finale to any meal.

In short, Cafe Brussels is more than a restaurant; it's a culinary escape. It's a place where you can discover new flavors, enjoy a great selection of Belgian beers and wines, and feel completely at ease in a welcoming environment. The commitment of its owner, Catherine Duwez, to bringing a slice of her home country to Houston is evident in every detail. It's a true neighborhood gem that is perfect for a variety of occasions, and it's well worth a visit for anyone seeking a truly unique and delicious dining experience in Texas.

Cafe Brussels

1718 Houston Ave, Houston, TX 77007, USA