Rue Lesbroussart 38, 1050 Ixelles

What’s good? Walkin’ Thai has all of your favorite classics — pad thai, soups, curries, dumplings. But in the end, the desserts stole the show. The Thai-inspired crepe, with a full banana inside, topped with ice cream and chocolate sauce, was a major highlight. It’s like a banana split on steroids, and a dish you’ll want to finish even if you’re full to the brim with curry. The sticky mango rice was also delightful. A super-ripe fruit is paired with not-too-sweet rice and coconut milk — a combo that brought your reviewer right back to the streets of Bangkok.

What’s not? The massaman curry packed high-level flavor, but there was way too much rice for the amount of sauce (and the sauce is the best part, duh!). Similarly, the veggie dumplings were scrumptious — but only if you could get them to your mouth in one piece before they fell apart.

Vibe: Unpretentious and warm, decked out in fake plants, rattan décor and Asian artworks, with a no B.S. Thai comfort food menu.

Who’s picking up the check? You can, without breaking the bank. The prices are reasonable for the portion size (most starters are under €6, and entrees are in the €10 to €15 range). The fancier you go with the protein, the higher the bill.

Spotted: A mix of locals of all ages — and even a few solo diners (no shame here, it’s a safe space!).

Insider tip: Arrive at 7 p.m. if you want your choice of table. The restaurant was full by 8 p.m., even on a weeknight.

Fun fact: The secret to the delectable Thai crepe on the dessert menu? It’s fried. (That always makes things better, right?)

How to get there: Bus 59 or 38 to Flagey, or tram 93 (get off at Bailli), and walk 5 minutes up Rue Lesbroussart.

— Review published on January 25, 2024. Illustration by Dato Paruvala for POLITICO.