The grey, rainy and cold weather has many dreaming of warmer, sunnier destinations, especially during the weekends. While it may not be able to deliver sun, one restaurant in Brussels is looking to bring the atmosphere of an Italian weekend to the city to brighten up people's days.
Saturday is a day of rest, but for many citizens of the southern country, it is also the time to do some shopping at a bustling market where a nice, freshly-made meal can be enjoyed afterwards. But there's no need to travel so far to enjoy the dolce vita; a new meeting point for Italian-loving foodies is now located in the heart of Brussels' Châtelain district.
Chef making fresh pasta in the restaurant. Credit: The Brussels Times
Cŏcīna Trattoria & Negozio, known for providing an authentic Italian culinary experience with its ultra-friendly staff, launched a new concept named Sabato (the Italian word for Saturday) and the 'Trattoria del Mercato' to give the city's residents a taste of this atmosphere (and of the country's delectable cuisine).
Exploring different themes
While the main ingredients of the much-loved Italian market atmosphere — the ambience, the fresh produce and the delicate aroma of various dishes — will be there every Saturday lunchtime from 28 January onwards, the concept explores five different themes, each putting a certain aspect of an Italian Saturday in the spotlight.
During the first two weeks of the new concept — it was launched on 14 January — colourful fruit and vegetables, fragrant cheeses and finely cut meats, all directly imported from Italy, were on show, while chefs were stationed among the tables, making fresh pasta and preparing it in a large cheese wheel (pasta alla ruota) as diners admire their work.
Cŏcīna's homemade tomato sauce and bottles of Aperol Spritz are available for sale in the little mercato. Credit: The Brussels Times
From Cŏcīna's homemade tomato sauce and freshly prepared pasta to Italian drinks to accompany the dishes, all ingredients to re-create the menu of the day are on sale in the restaurant.
This Saturday (4 February) and the week after, Italy's wines will be put into the limelight. Various tastings will be organised and attended by passionate vintners to explore the country's various grapes and beloved vineyards, while food to match the various palates will be served. Don't forget to stock up on your favourite vinos at the end of your visit!
Related News
- Belgium ranked as having world's 31st-best cuisine
- Two Brussels Italian restaurants ranked in worldwide top 50
Head over to Cocina Trattoria & Negozio (Rue Washington 149, 1050 Ixelles) every Saturday between noon and 15:00 to soak up the Mediterranean warmth (however, you'll have to use your imagination in the first few months).
