Umā

The story

Umā: Bistronomique Fusion in Brussels | Michelin Recommended

A Name That Means Delicious

Umā takes its name from the Japanese word for “delicious,” “appetizing,” “intelligent,” and “joy”—a fitting description for a restaurant that defines itself as cuisine without borders. In Brussels’ Rue de la Reinette, chef Jules-Antoine Beugniez runs a kitchen built on the idea that food can be a voyage. The concept is bistronomique: the comforting soul of a bistro meets the precision of contemporary gastronomy. It’s a style that has earned the restaurant a Michelin Recommended distinction, a quiet nod to the quality of what happens here.

A Chef’s Journey from Property to Plate

Jules-Antoine Beugniez did not start in the kitchen. After a first career in real estate, a round-the-world trip with his wife became the catalyst for change. He enrolled at Ferrandi in Paris, then sharpened his skills under chef Karen Torosyan at the two-star Bozar in Brussels. During his travels, he discovered Nikkei cuisine—the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian traditions—which resonated deeply and now shapes the restaurant’s identity. His cooking is personal, creative, and rooted in the cross-cultural influences he encountered.

Local Products, Global Techniques

Umā’s kitchen relies on short supply chains and local producers, but the techniques are anything but provincial. The menu changes regularly, reflecting what’s available and the chef’s evolving ideas. Diners can expect a progressive experience where a classic bistro ingredient might be treated with avant-garde precision. The space also accommodates private events for up to twenty guests in a comfortable, dedicated room. Whether you come for lunch or dinner, Umā delivers an international, fusion-driven meal that feels both grounded and adventurous.