Poules Moules

Poules Moules is a casual mussels restaurant at Simon Stevinplein 5 in Brugge, in the Flemish Region of Belgium, on the small square just off the Markt that is also home to The Chocolate Line. It specialises in the national dish of Belgium, mussels served with frites, and the menu is built around the pot: moules marinières steamed with celery, onion and white wine, and mussels in white wine and cream are the signature versions, with other sauces and flavourings offered as variations. Each pot arrives with a portion of crisp frites and mayonnaise, and a pot is generally enough for a full meal. The mussels are in their best season from autumn to spring, and the kitchen follows the Belgian convention of avoiding them in the summer months when quality is lower, though menus change by supplier. Alternatives for non-shellfish eaters include chicken, steak and fish plates. The drinks list covers Belgian beers, white wines suited to mussels and soft drinks. The dining room is casual and informal, with tables inside and outdoors on the square; it is practical, quick and friendly rather than romantic, and noise is moderate. Main courses cost about EUR 18-30 (about $21-35). Lunch and dinner are served daily. Walk-ins are normally accepted during the week, while booking is recommended on weekends, in summer and for larger parties. The square is a few steps from the Markt and the Burg, making it handy for a straightforward meal during a day of sightseeing in Brugge.