Frank

The story

Frank Brussels Brunch Institution: Australian Breakfasts and Art Deco Space

Frank anchors the Brussels brunch circuit, operating two locations where owners Mathias Smet and Marianne Renders serve generous Australian-style breakfasts alongside specialty coffee.

The architect turned chef behind Frank.

Mathias Smet followed an unconventional path from photography and architecture to the kitchen, refining his skills at Humus & Hortense before launching this family-owned venture. Partner Marianne Renders contributes deep knowledge from Seven Seeds in Australia and the OR coffee bar franchise. They named the establishment after the historic Belgian coin, referencing its location near La Monnaie where currency was historically produced. The couple prioritizes short supply chains and makes nearly everything from scratch, including yoghurt, pesto, and their own sourdough bread.

House-smoked bacon and seasonal vegetables.

The menu updates monthly to spotlight produce sourced directly from Belgian farmers, placing vegetables at the heart of the kitchen's output. Standout plates include the Brasvar Bacon Benedict, featuring house-smoked pork shoulder, thick-cut bacon, and poached eggs dressed with carvi vinaigrette. Plant-based options feature the Francine dish, which layers miso-glazed aubergine, roasted capsicum, and red beetroot cream over an English muffin. Sourdough toast offers versatile bases for toppings like seaweed sour cream with Norwegian salmon or roasted seasonal vegetables.

Specialty coffee and Australian influences.

Renders' professional background shapes a focused beverage program that pairs organic apple juice and precise espresso preparations with the food. Australian inspiration surfaces in the generous scale of dishes and the texture of their fluffy double-stack pancakes accompanied by poached pear and white chocolate mascarpone. Sweet selections span a fresh fromage blanc bowl with honey lemon syrup to a tiramisu-filled pain au chocolat. Even savory pastries like the cheese croissant blend Emmental and Cheddar from local makers.

An art deco space near La Monnaie.

The La Monnaie site fills a large room highlighted by an art deco glass roof that introduces color to the dining environment. This location functions as a daytime brunch venue, while the neighboring evening operation adopts the name Francine to maintain distinct service identities under shared organic principles. The restaurant accommodates families and provides outdoor seating when weather permits. Management utilizes fixed time slots to organize table flow efficiently throughout service hours.