The blue — Restaurant in Brussels

Buckle up, fellow foodies and travelers, because this restaurant review is going to be a wild ride! Last Friday evening, my friends and I decided to try out a restaurant that had been getting rave reviews on Google Maps. With high expectations and growling stomachs, we eagerly entered the establishment, only to be met with a series of disappointing surprises.

First up, the toilet. Oh, the horror! As a self-proclaimed germaphobe, I couldn't believe my eyes. The toilet was not just unclean, but downright unhygienic. It looked like it hadn't been cleaned in ages, and the smell was enough to make my nose hairs curl. Needless to say, that was not a promising start to our dining experience.

As we sat down at our table, we couldn't help but notice that the staff was also lacking in the hygiene department. Not only did the chef touch money with their cooking gloves, but we also caught some of the waitstaff smoking in front of the restaurant. And to top it off, one of the servers was wiping sweat off their brow with their bare hand before handling our plates. Yikes!

We decided to order some French fries, but unfortunately, they were a letdown. They were neither delicious nor salted, and seemed like they had been sitting under a heat lamp for way too long. The disappointment continued as we perused the menu and realized that the prices for both the food and drinks were exorbitantly high. It felt like we were paying for the location rather than the quality of the food.

At this point, we were scratching our heads in confusion. How could this place have such good reviews on Google? Were we missing something? The only redeeming factor was the meat, specifically the goulash. It was rich, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. It was the saving grace of an otherwise lackluster meal.

Overall, our experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. While the goulash was a standout dish, the unhygienic toilet, staff's lack of hygiene, subpar French fries, and steep prices left us feeling disappointed. Despite the positive reviews on Google Maps, we couldn't overlook these flaws, and we left with a sense of regret. With a heavy heart, I have to give this restaurant a 2 out of 5 stars. My advice to fellow travelers? Proceed with caution and lower your expectations, or better yet, explore other dining options in the city that offer a more satisfying experience for your taste buds and wallet....

The Blue in Brussels is nothing short of a culinary gem. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers an extraordinary dining experience that perfectly encapsulates the rich and diverse culture of Brussels. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by an inviting ambiance that is both cozy and elegant, setting the stage for a memorable meal.

The food at The Blue is simply phenomenal. Each dish is a masterful blend of local flavors and innovative techniques, showcasing the best of Brussels' culinary traditions. The menu is thoughtfully curated, with every item prepared to perfection. Whether you’re indulging in the succulent mussels, savoring the rich Belgian stew, or treating yourself to the decadent desserts, every bite is a testament to the chef’s artistry and dedication to quality.

Equally impressive is the selection of drinks. The Blue boasts an extensive wine list and a variety of expertly crafted cocktails that complement the food beautifully. The attention to detail in both food and drink presentation is impeccable, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience.

A significant part of what makes The Blue stand out is the exceptional hospitality of the owner, Gabriel. His passion for his restaurant and the local culture shines through in every interaction. Gabriel's warm and welcoming nature makes you feel like a valued guest, and his knowledge of Brussels’ culinary scene adds an enriching dimension to your visit. He ensures that every diner has a personalized and delightful experience, which truly sets The Blue apart from other establishments.

In conclusion, The Blue is, without a doubt, the best restaurant in the area. The superb food, exquisite drinks, and the outstanding service provided by Gabriel make it a must-visit for anyone in Brussels. Whether you're a local or a tourist, a meal at The Blue is an unforgettable journey through the flavors and traditions of this...

I recently dined at The Blue with a friend and had an extremely disappointing experience. We ordered two appetizers, two beers, and mussels. The waiter, who had nothing to write with, brought only one drink initially and asked us to repeat our order because he forgot it. The first appetizer arrived, but we had to repeat the rest of our order to a different waiter.

We waited a total of 47 minutes, noticing other customers who arrived after us were being served before us. When we realized our mussels had been forgotten and likely given to others, we decided to leave.

I asked for the check to pay for what we had received, but the waiter loudly insisted we had just arrived and accused us of being difficult. Despite having timestamps from social media posts proving our wait time, the waiter refused to bring our check and told another waiter not to either.

When I paid 30 Euros for our drinks and appetizers and tried to leave, the waiter followed us, attempting to return the money and even put his hands on my arm. This behavior was completely unprofessional and unacceptable.

Avoid The Blue at all costs. Their service is incompetent, and their staff is disrespectful and unprofessional.

EDIT Since I can't write a response to the owner, I'll edit from hereafter and say their response should tell you how they actually are. The owner says I have no respect, when the only thing I was trying to do was pay for what we had while we were at the restaurant; that is as fair as it gets. In regard to owner mentioning I chose to make a review 10 days later isn't due to having "nothing to say" but the simple fact I was on vacation, trying to enjoy my time through better eating establishments, not by people who try yelling at their customers. Read this review and the owners response and this should give you some idea how the situation went down and the maturity level...