Maison Antoine: best frites in Brussels

The best frites or fries in Brussels (and some say the world) are at Maison Antoine, a humble kiosk on Place Jourdan, not far from the European Parliament. There is almost always a queue of people there, no matter what time of day it is. They've been in business since 1948 - a sure sign that they know what they're doing. The King of Belgium is a fan. We stood in line for about 15 minutes before being served. Their frites are hand-cut each morning, then they are fried twice. In the old days they were fried in beef fat. The first frying seals the potato and cooks it, laying the foundation for its creamy interior. The second frying gives it that satisfying outer crunch on the outside that is the signature of a good Belgian frite. I've had a good many frites in my time, at establishments both posh and humble, but the ones at Maison Antoine are a cut above the rest.

A heaping cornet or cone of frites is 2 Euros. Sauce of your choice is 60 cents. Walk to a nearby cafe or bar with the sign 'Frites acceptées' on the door, order a beer and eat your frites in the warm. The waiter will bring extra paper towels to wipe your greasy fingers.

Perhaps next time I will blip the frites. Today I was in no mood to let my frites grow cold or my Leffe Brune get warm while I diddled with my camera. That would have been a crime.


closer


Maison Antoine
Place Jourdan, 1
1040 Brussels (Etterbeek) Tel +32 (02) 230 54 56

Open daily.
Sunday to Thursday from 11:30 am to 1 am
Friday & Saturday from 11:30 am to 2 am