Mussels in Brussels

We had dinner last night in Brussels city center, so I could get mussels. Before we got to the restaurant, we stopped at one of the oldest pubs in Brussels (established in 1686!) called Mort Subite (pronounced more sooBEET), which literally means Sudden Death, for Kriek (pronounced creek), which is beer made from CHERRIES! Who makes beer from CHERRIES?! Oh, right... the Belgians. (They also make beer from raspberries.) Kriek is delicious, and Mort Subite is an amazing place. It is a bright and airy pub with 2-story ceilings and long wooden tables down the length of it. Smaller bistro-style tables are outside (very Belgians for the pub to spill over into the street - very European, I think) where we sat to watch the passers-by. Upstairs the perimeter has tables and chairs which overlook the main goings-on at the bar below. The walls are adorned with ornate sculptures and mouldings, one entire wall (opposite the bar) is mirrored, making the place look even bigger, although it is quite large and probably seats 100 or more. The bar itself has been modernized, I think, because it is mostly glass and chrome. I don't imagine it looked quite like that in 1686.

After a short walk, we found mussels served wonderfully at a bright, casual little restaurant called Le Pre-Sale. I ordered mine with white wine, but I was completely out-ordered by Walter, who ordered his with garlic & cream. Mine were very tasty, but the ones in garlic & cream were fantastic! All varieties, regardless of what you order, are served in a large ceramic black pot with chopped onions and celery with a side of frites (Belgian fries, not to be confused with the more widely know French variety). Delicious! And now I can say I've had mussels in Brussels. And chocolate, and waffles, and frites, and beer. I'm done. Time to go home.