Restaurant review: Maru

Chau. de Waterloo 510, 1050 Ixelles

What’s good? The service is quick and detail-oriented, with waiters explaining the menu with expertise. My dinner companion, a spice aficionado, opted for the kimchi soup as an appetizer, while my low tolerance for heat led me to the dumplings. This was a safe and tasty option.

What really stole the show, though, was the bibimbap — a veggie rice served in a hot stone pot with egg yolk, with the option to add beef. The crispy Korean deep-fried chicken also tasted incredible and the portions are generous, providing enough for a doggy bag. For dessert, we shared sesame ice cream with a red bean sauce. It’s definitely an acquired taste, but it makes for a light and sweet ending to the meal.

What’s not? A small but noteworthy detail: The long tables can make it difficult to hear your dinner companion at times, especially on a crowded night.

Vibe: The trendy wooden interior immediately creates a cozy ambiance. There’s a mix of mainly small tables and a few larger tables for big groups, so there’s something for everyone.

Who’s picking up the check? It’s not the cheapest place, so best come prepared. Individual tabs rarely dip below €50, with mains ranging from €20 to almost €40. Read: It’s a rendezvous dinner for special occasions.

Spotted: Maru attracts a diverse crowd, from the elegantly dressed man next to us with his pocket square to casual, younger crowds. It’s a go-to spot for friends catching up, dates, family gatherings, or even (why not!) work meetings.

Insider tip: Book in advance! The restaurant is usually fully booked on weekends, so it’s a good idea to make reservations at least three days in advance.

Fun fact: Surprisingly, Maru also offers a wide selection of natural wines, thanks to the owner’s partner, a wine enthusiast. Don’t be afraid to ask if you can purchase a bottle to take home.

How to get there: Head to Bailli or Trinité, accessible via the 8, 54, 81, or 93. From there, it’s approximately a 10-minute walk toward Chaussée de Waterloo. Look for the cool storefront with neon and curtains — that’s Maru!

— Review published on April 11, 2024. Illustration by Dato Parulava/POLITICO.