Bowie

In Flanders, there are countless brasseries, but unfortunately, their standards vary. Luckily, for the vibrant Boelaert neighborhood in Borgerhout, since April 2023, an excellent example has opened under the name Bowie. This eclectic dining venue is the brainchild of Bertrand Lekeux, an experienced hospitality entrepreneur, chef Toon De Bock, and freelance costume designer Ellen Blereau.

The interior has been thoroughly renovated, with a vibe clearly inspired by David Bowie. Notable features include the stunning marble bar, deep red walls, chairs upholstered in royal blue velvet, and stained-glass windows with lightning bolts. The result is timeless, high-quality, and has a quirky touch.

The main goal is to use seasonal and high-quality products. Chef Toon has crafted a menu with classics you’d expect in a traditional brasserie, but with a twist! Noteworthy dishes include the “Fernand Obb” shrimp croquettes with fried parsley and lemon, and the artisan-made marrow bone covered with panko, mustard, and parsley.

Other recommendations include the beef stew, braised with Magma beer from brewery Musketiers, the Bowie steak tartare, and the famous vol-au-vent ‘as it should be’. For lovers of well-aged meats such as côte à l’os Holstein, tender six-rib cuts, or perfectly cooked Scottish Aberdeen steak, Bowie is the place to be.

The ‘Banoffee Bowie’, a dessert with banana ice cream, banana chunks, cookie crumbs, toffee, and lime zest, is a favorite that guests keep coming back for.

A good brasserie is also known for an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with a special selection of beers, and this is certainly the case here.

For larger groups wishing to dine at Bowie, the upstairs area is the perfect spot.