Café des Minimes: A Relaxed Haven for Good Food and Drinks

Tucked between the vibrant Sablon and Marolles neighborhoods in Brussels, Café des Minimes is a relaxed restaurant where patrons come to enjoy good food and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. Founded in 2018 by Léopold and his friends, Jean and Charles, the café has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its focus on seasonal, local produce and its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for both staff and guests.

A Passion Project

Léopold, 32, and his friends, Jean and Charles, dreamt of opening a place that combined their shared love of good food, drinks, and music. After two years of planning and overcoming challenges like securing a location and navigating brewery restrictions, they finally opened Café des Minimes. Initially, the café hosted live music and DJ sets, but due to neighborhood complaints, they shifted their focus primarily to food, offering a Franco-Belgian menu crafted by their Alsatian chef, Régis.

Seasonal and Local

The menu at Café des Minimes changes regularly to reflect the seasons and showcase the best of local produce. Dishes range from vegetarian options to meat and fish, with an emphasis on respecting the origin and seasonality of the ingredients. Prices are reasonable, with main courses averaging between 20 and 25 euros. The café also boasts a wide selection of beers from local microbreweries, natural wines, and other beverages.

A Relaxed Atmosphere

Café des Minimes prides itself on its relaxed atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a meal or simply unwind with a drink. The café's beautiful terrace is a popular spot during warmer months, and the diverse clientele reflects the neighborhood's mix of cultures and ages.

Challenges and Successes

One of the biggest challenges the café faced was establishing itself in a location with limited foot traffic. However, their perseverance and dedication to quality paid off, and the café is now thriving. Léopold is particularly proud of the positive work environment they've created, with staff retention being a testament to their success.

Looking AheadLéopold's vision for the future of Café des Minimes is simple: to maintain its current success and continue to delight customers with quality food, drinks, and service. While acknowledging the ever-changing nature of the hospitality industry, he believes that staying true to their core values will ensure the café's longevity.