Bij den Boer

Bij den Boer is a long-standing fish restaurant at Quai aux Briques 60, on the old fish-market quay in the Sainte-Catherine district of Brussels, Belgium. The quays here were once the centre of the city's fish trade, and a cluster of seafood restaurants has remained around the Place Sainte-Catherine. Bij den Boer belongs to that tradition, offering classic Belgian seafood cooking in a straightforward setting. There is no Michelin context to cite, and the restaurant relies on its reputation for fresh fish and traditional preparation.

The signature dishes include waterzooi of fish, the creamy Flemish stew of fish and vegetables; grilled sole, a prized fish in Belgian cooking; and mussels, served in the traditional style with fries. The menu follows the market and the season, and the focus is on simple preparations that let the fish speak for itself. Mains cost roughly €22-40, making it one of the more expensive casual choices in the district, with the price depending on the fish chosen.

The dining room is traditional and relaxed, with a quiet, unfussy mood suited to couples and groups who want a proper seafood meal. There is no strict dress code, though diners often wear smart-casual clothes. Noise is moderate, and service is attentive in the manner of a long-established house. It is a better choice for a leisurely lunch or dinner than for a quick bite.

The drinks programme leans on white wines and Belgian beers that suit seafood, with a straightforward selection rather than a specialist list.

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and weekends, as the restaurant is popular with both locals and visitors. Booking a few days ahead is usually enough for weeknights. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, but closing days vary, so visitors should verify the schedule before going. It is a short walk from the Place Sainte-Catherine, the Tour Noire and the Grand Place.