Le Phare du Kanaal

The story

Le Phare du Kanaal: A Historic Brussels Brunch Spot Along the Canal

A working boat turned local canteen

Le Phare du Kanaal serves as a beloved brunch destination in Brussels, drawing on decades of canal-side history. The structure once handled nineteenth-century freight before transforming into Les Deux Arcades and eventually adopting its current maritime identity. Claire Daliers added a sweeping mural titled The Drunken Ship to the exterior, signaling the shift toward community gathering. Inside the renovated hold, exposed beams and large portholes create a relaxed setting for everyday dining.

Seasonal plates from the hold

Chefs Sara Million and François Barry steer a menu built around local produce and mostly organic ingredients. Their straightforward approach earned the venue a spot on the Le Fooding roster, a recognition that matches the steady stream of regulars filling the porthole-lit space. Pan-fried Brussels mushrooms sit atop smooth celeriac purée alongside new potatoes and roasted leeks finished with Parmesan and herb croutons. The kitchen also turns out hearty Spek & Boonen beef kefta tagine served with bulgur wheat and winter vegetables.

Sweet finishes and canal views

Guests often save room for the house-made cheesecake, which arrives glazed with a bright red berry coulis. The afternoon rhythm shifts toward simpler bites like oil-packed sardines while workers share tables near the waterline. This steady flow of visitors keeps the canal-side brunch atmosphere grounded and distinctly unpretentious. Weekend crowds frequently claim the terrace seats to watch the light shift over the old quayside.