The story
On a quiet street in Ixelles, L'épicerie Nomad opened its doors in early 2023 and quickly became a neighbourhood favourite. The restaurant’s name hints at its spirit: a welcoming spot built on a love of good food and good company, with a menu that draws on both classic French and Mediterranean cuisine.
The kitchen is led by Chef Jean, whose cooking is described by guests as simple, savoury and well-executed. The menu changes regularly and includes vegetarian options, with dishes that have drawn particular praise for their grilled octopus, beef tartare, and a roasted tomato and burrata appetiser. The wine list is thoughtfully chosen, and the service is warm and attentive.
The atmosphere is cosy and relaxed, with outdoor seating for warmer months. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, making it a versatile choice for everything from a casual lunch to a private dinner. The interior is characterful and unpretentious — the kind of place where you can settle in for an evening with a good bottle of wine.
L'épicerie Nomad earned a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide, a recognition reserved for restaurants that offer high-quality food at reasonable prices. In a city with no shortage of excellent tables, this Ixelles address stands out for its honest cooking and genuine hospitality.
Recognition
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History
good quality, good value cooking
Ceci n’est pas une épicerie… at least it’s not an épicerie anymore. Within these walls, you’ll now find the latest restaurant from Jean Callens, a chef who has cooking in his blood, and who reestablished himself in the Ixelles neighborhood after leaving his Callens Café. Located a few meters from Audrey Hepburn’s birthplace (an anecdote to sprinkle into the conversation at your next dinner party), the chef has preserved all the warm features of a neighborhood épicerie (a big counter, a timeless Berkel scale) to welcome customers in as he would to his own home. And the plates are a journey: tuna tataki with a sesame crust, which almost felt meaty, served with peppers, leeks and soy beans cooked in a wok, all of which could have used a little more seasoning; burrata pimped out with truffle cream, arugula and eggplant, plus fried leek tops, which was also a little on the timid side; but some truly beautiful braised octopus with potato and chorizo mash; and for dessert, coconut rice pudding infused with lemongrass, as lovely as it was generous, with a caliente chili coulis and crispy sesame crumble topping. // Bobby Lapinte
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