What should I order at Brussels Bistro?
Brussels Bistro
Belgian Fries
Mentioned repeatedly as perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside, cooked in beef tallow, and served with homemade mayonnaise and ketchup. Reviewers emphasize them as the best fries, a must-try item, and a perfect accompaniment to many dishes.
Mussels (Moules Frites)
Highly praised for being perfectly cooked, plump, sweet, and succulent. Varieties like green or yellow curry flavored mussels are recommended. Often served with fries and bread, this dish is considered the star of the menu by many guests.
Escargot
Noted as perfect and served with fresh warm baguette to soak up garlic butter. Reviewers describe it as amazing and a standout appetizer.
Trout Almondine
Recommended for its delicious preparation paired with asparagus. Multiple reviewers highlighted this dish as a favorite.
Beef Bourguignon
Called a must-try dish that exemplifies the authentic Flemish cuisine experience offered at the bistro.
Cheese Croquettes
Highly recommended as amazing and paired well with fries. A favorite among Belgian patrons and a good representation of traditional Belgian food.
Carbonara
Described as creamy and packed with parmesan, this dish is highlighted as very tasty and highly recommended.
Liege Meatballs
Recommended by a reviewer with Belgian heritage as a beloved dish representing a regional specialty.
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Mentioned as lightly breaded and delicious, especially when paired with the crispy Belgian fries.
Waffles with Poached Eggs and Meat
Praised as part of a tasty and filling breakfast option, noted for perfect poached eggs and good value.
Hours
| Monday | 4 to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 4 to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 4 to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 4 to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 4 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 9:30 PM |
About Brussels Bistro
Brussels Bistro is a Belgian restaurant, bar, bistro, and brunch spot in San Clemente, California. Reviewers consistently praise the mussels, Belgian beers, beef bourguignon, escargot, and fries, along with the attentive service and authentic Belgian character. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and often European inspired, with outdoor seating and a bar onsite. It is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, and reservations are recommended for brunch and dinner.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- All you can eat
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Brussels Bistro known for?
It is best known for mussels and Belgian beer, especially the all-you-can-eat mussels on Tuesdays and the large mussels and frites. Reviewers also repeatedly call out the Belgian fries, beef bourguignon, and authentic Belgian beer selection as standout specialties.
What dishes are most recommended at Brussels Bistro?
The most recommended items are the mussels and frites, beef bourguignon, escargot, and the cone of Belgian fries. Reviewers also mention the almond trout, Liege meatballs, cheese croquette, and the dessert crepe with ice cream as memorable choices.
What is the atmosphere like at Brussels Bistro?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and European inspired, with some reviewers describing it as candlelit and intimate at night. It is often recommended for date nights, groups, and families, and the semi-open-air seating also makes it work for dogs outside.
Is Brussels Bistro good value, and what is the price range?
The listed price range is $20 to $70, and reviewers describe it as moderate to mid-priced with outstanding value for the quality. Several comments note that a meal with mussels, fries, and beer can land around $30 to $40 per person before extra apps or drinks.
What should I know about ordering drinks or visiting at peak times?
Brussels Bistro is known for its Belgian beers on tap, beer flights, cocktails, and a strong wine list, with reviewers specifically praising the trippel, witbier, and fruit beer on tap. Because brunch and dinner reservations are recommended and the place can get lively, it is a good idea to book ahead for busy times.
Is parking available at Brussels Bistro?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does Brussels Bistro have vegetarian options?
Yes, Brussels Bistro offers vegetarian options.
Is Brussels Bistro kid-friendly?
Yes, Brussels Bistro is good for kids.
Restaurants like Brussels Bistro in San Clemente
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