Noordzee Mer du Nord

Noordzee Mer du Nord is a fishmonger and standing fish counter at Rue Sainte-Catherine 45, in the Sainte-Catherine district of central Brussels, near the Place Sainte-Catherine and the old fish-market quays. The district was historically Brussels's fish-market area, and this counter continues that tradition as a casual stop for very fresh seafood eaten on the street. Prices are modest for seafood, with items at about €10-22. There is no formal dining room. Customers order at the counter and eat standing at the pavement tables or against the walls, a format that gives the place its character and makes it popular with locals, office workers and visitors on a food walk. The menu is short and built around the day's catch. Signature items include fish soup, fried calamari and shrimp croquettes, the last a Belgian classic made with North Sea grey shrimp. Other fish and shellfish are prepared simply, grilled or fried, and the quality of the raw product is the main attraction. The atmosphere is informal, brisk and communal, with a steady flow of customers and no table service. Because there is no seating, the experience suits quick lunches and snacks more than long meals, and it works well as a stop between sights or as part of a Sainte-Catherine tasting route. No reservations are taken. Opening hours are limited, with service from late morning on most days and closures on Sundays and Mondays, so visitors should verify hours before going. Queues appear at midday and on weekend afternoons. Visitors wanting a seated seafood meal with table service can find several restaurants on the surrounding streets and around Place Sainte-Catherine, but the counter is the fastest and most affordable way to taste fresh Belgian seafood in the centre.