Celebrated table
The story
Bar Billie anchors a quiet stretch of Rue Sainte-Catherine in Brussels, carrying forward a steady tradition of Belgian bistro cooking. After a decade under Filip Jans, the former Monk café recently welcomed new hands. Leentje Bruyninckx of Roskam, Dries Heyman, and Steven De Visscher now steer the daily rhythm while keeping the original kitchen crew intact. This measured transition preserves the neighborhood’s comfort.
The interior preserves the bones of the old establishment. Visitors encounter timeless floor tiles, dark woodwork, and globe-shaped light fixtures hanging above a polished counter. The layout encourages counter dining before guests settle at wooden tables near the windows. It feels grounded and unpretentious from the doorway.
The menu leans into straightforward Belgian cooking without chasing trends. Orders frequently feature spaghetti bolognaise smothered in a thick sauce and finished with a heavy layer of grated Orval cheese. Guests also rotate through chocolate mousse, speculoos cookie tiramisu, or brown sugar rice pudding for something sweeter. The wine list rounds out the experience with steady selections.
Leaning into its unflashy character, the spot secured a listing in the 2026 Le Fooding guide. Critics recognized how the new owners balanced fresh energy with the reliability of a long-running local staple. That practical approach defines every plate and pour.
Recognition
Location
