What should I order at Philema?
Philema
Dakos
Mentioned as amazing and loved in the reviews, making it one of the standout Cretan dishes.
Fava
Specifically praised as something the reviewers loved, with strong positive feedback.
Baklava
Recommended as a sweet to try after dinner, described as really nice.
Spanakopita
Called delicious when served as the pita du jour, and clearly enjoyed by reviewers.
Salade Cretoise
Highlighted as heavenly, especially for its very tasty tomatoes, and strongly recommended.
Grilled Cheese With Marmalade
A reviewer said they would definitely go back specifically for this dish, showing strong appeal.
Slow Cooked Lamb
Also singled out by a reviewer as a dish they would return for, suggesting it is a memorable favorite.
Goat Dish With Bulgur
Included among the foods that made for a great meal and recommended as part of a delicious spread.
Octopus Carpaccio
Mentioned as part of an excellent meal and positively received.
Pita With Cheese & Spinach
Reviewed favorably as one of the tasty dishes enjoyed during dinner.
Fried Egg Salad
Listed among the dishes praised for being delicious in a very good dining experience.
Grilled Chicken With Potato
Included in a meal described as delicious, with no complaints from the reviewers.
Sea Bream
Called really amazing in one review, making it a clear recommended fish dish.
Porc Steak
Mentioned alongside sea bream as part of an excellent meal and praised as amazing.
Bread
Repeatedly praised as delicious and homemade, especially when served warm.
Cookies
The cookies served with coffee were described as lovely, with one reviewer saying they would buy a huge pack.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 to 2 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 2 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 2 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 2 PM, 7 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Sunday | 12 to 3 PM |
About Philema
Philema is a Greek restaurant in Ixelles, known for Cretan food, Greek wines, and a cozy, quiet dining room. Reviewers consistently praise the traditional Cretan dishes, especially dakos, fava, tarama, and other small plates, along with the friendly, knowledgeable service. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, and it offers dine-in and takeout. The price range is €30–70, with many reviewers noting generous portions and strong wine selection.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is Philema known for?
Philema is best known for traditional Cretan Greek food, especially dakos, fava, tarama, and other island-style small plates. Reviewers also highlight the Greek wine list and say the restaurant stands out for authentic flavors and very friendly service.
What dishes are most recommended at Philema?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend dakos, fava, tarama, spanakopita, and the salade crétoise, and some also mention grilled cheese with marmalade, slow-cooked lamb, sea bream, and octopus carpaccio. The food is often described as generous in portion size, with several people calling out the bread and warm starters as especially good value.
What is the atmosphere like at Philema?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, quiet, and intimate, with a small restaurant feel that works well for lunch, dinner, and catching up with friends. Reviewers also mention it as a good fit for solo diners and groups, with a romantic and welcoming vibe.
Is Philema good value, and what is the price range?
Philema is in the €30–70 range, and reviewers say the pricing is standard for Brussels and fair for the quality. Several note that portions are very generous, starters can be a bit high but are often large enough to share, and a lunch of salad plus spanakopita was described as good price for the quantity and quality.
Do I need a reservation at Philema?
Yes, reservations are recommended for both lunch and dinner, and some reviews say it can be hard to get seated if you arrive without one. One reviewer suggested coming right when it opens if you do not have a booking.
Is parking available at Philema?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Philema have vegetarian options?
Yes, Philema offers vegetarian options.
Is Philema kid-friendly?
Yes, Philema is good for kids.
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