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Au Vieux Saint-Martin
★ 4.0(1 review)Restaurant
classicelegantlocal-favorite
About the Vibe
Perched right on the Grand Sablon square with views of the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Sablon, Au Vieux Saint-Martin is a Brussels institution that's been serving up serious Belgian classics since 1968. The current chef Thierry Strauven keeps things grounded with ultra-fresh products and a menu that honors tradition without feeling stuck in the past. It's the kind of place where you'll find locals celebrating birthdays and tourists discovering what real Belgian comfort food tastes like. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between elegant and welcoming—think classic Belgian brasserie vibes with a touch of old-world charm. You can tell this place has history in its walls, and the family running it clearly takes pride in what they do. It's not flashy, but it's got that steady reliability that makes you want to come back again and again.
Known For
- •Belgian specialties
- •Prime location on Grand Sablon
- •Family-run since 1968
- •Fresh seasonal menu
Best For
special occasionsbusiness dinnerstourist experience
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 12, 2026
Solid Belgian classics in a prime location
Au Vieux Saint-Martin has earned its reputation as one of Brussels' most reliable restaurants, and for good reason. Located on the beautiful Grand Sablon square, you can't beat the setting—dining with a view of the Church of Our Lady while enjoying solid Belgian cuisine is hard to top. The food is consistently good, with dishes that honor traditional recipes while showing the chef's personal touch. The service is professional and warm, making you feel like a regular even on your first visit.
What I appreciate most is how this place manages to be both a local favorite and a destination for visitors. The menu changes with the seasons, which keeps things fresh and interesting. The wine list is well-curated without being pretentious, and the staff can guide you through it without making you feel intimidated. It's not the trendiest spot in Brussels, but that's part of its charm—you're getting genuine quality without the hype.
The only reason I'm not giving it a perfect score is that it can get quite busy, especially during tourist season, so reservations are essential. Also, while the food is excellent, it's not particularly adventurous if you're looking for something groundbreaking. But for what it does—serving classic Belgian dishes in a beautiful setting with solid service—it really delivers.