Belgian bistro Racine Expands After Decade of Success
Bistro Racine, a culinary gem nestled in Walloon Brabant, Belgium, is celebrating its tenth anniversary with a significant expansion. The acclaimed restaurant, known for its Michelin-starred bistronomic cuisine, has moved to a larger location just a hundred meters from its original spot, promising an even more refined dining experience for its loyal patrons.
Owner Jimmy, reflecting on the restaurant’s journey, shared, “My former partner Jean-Marie Bucumi (who has since left the adventure) and I wanted our restaurant.When the Michelin guide awarded us a star in 2018, we were both surprised and delighted. As a bistronomique, we were even among the first in Belgium to obtain this distinction.Others followed and this undoubtedly helped to unblock gastronomy a little.”
The Michelin star, awarded in 2018, was a significant milestone for Bistro Racine, marking it as one of the first bistronomic restaurants in Belgium to achieve this prestigious recognition. This success, according to Jimmy, helped to elevate the Belgian culinary scene.
“We were one of the first bistronomics to receive a Michelin star.”
The move to a larger space addresses previous limitations. Jimmy explained, “I was tired of elbowing,” referring to the cramped conditions for both staff and diners in the previous location. The new building, formerly a café, offers considerably more room, allowing for a more comfortable and efficient operation.
The expansion represents a substantial investment, particularly noteworthy given the current challenges facing the hospitality industry. However, Jimmy remains optimistic, stating, “A real stroke of luck. This house, which was once a café, belonged to an old lady. Here, I am an owner and no longer a tenant. It’s quite an investment, perhaps a little against the grain in this delicate period for the Horeca sector. We have a loyal customer base, around 40% of whom are Dutch speakers. We are not going to change the quality of the plate, we are even going to improve it, but we have erased what we did not like and could also bother the customer.”
The renovated space boasts an expanded kitchen and seating capacity ranging from 28 to 38, depending on table arrangement. The restaurant is currently undergoing final preparations for its grand reopening, promising a refined culinary experience that builds upon its already stellar reputation.
bistro Racine’s Grand Reopening: A Brussels Culinary Comeback
After years of success, Bistro Racine, a cherished Brussels establishment, is set to unveil a dramatically expanded and revitalized space on January 15th. This isn’t just a renovation; it’s a complete conversion, promising a significantly enhanced dining experience for its loyal clientele.
the ambitious project represents a substantial investment, a bold move that reflects the owners’ unwavering confidence in their restaurant’s enduring appeal. “It’s a big investment, perhaps against the grain, but we have a loyal clientele,” explains the owner, highlighting the risk and reward inherent in the undertaking.The expansion will more than quadruple the restaurant’s size, creating a more spacious and comfortable atmosphere for diners.
The increased space will allow for significant improvements in service and ambiance. “We have five times more space, everyone will have their own station. Better we will hire a permanent person for room service,” the owner proudly states, outlining the planned enhancements. This commitment to improved service underscores the restaurant’s dedication to providing an remarkable dining experience.
Bistro Racine’s success is undeniable,a testament to its consistently high-quality food and service.Its association with the renowned Chez Firmin brand, located in Braine-le-Château, further solidifies its reputation for bistronomic excellence. This relaunch isn’t just a renovation; it’s a statement of intent, a commitment to maintaining its position as a leading culinary destination in Brussels.
the January 15th reopening marks a new chapter for Bistro Racine, promising a refined and elevated dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended, given the restaurant’s established popularity and the anticipated excitement surrounding its grand relaunch. This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a Brussels institution, ready to welcome diners to its newly expanded and improved home.
For those seeking a refined and memorable dining experience in Brussels, Bistro Racine’s grand reopening is an event not to be missed. Mark your calendars for January 15th and prepare for a culinary journey unlike any other.
