Before leaving Belgium for Vietnam, Isabelle and I decided to give ourselves a proper foodie farewell. Over the years, many of you know how much we enjoy exploring Belgian restaurants — some famous, some still hidden gems — and this last stretch was no exception.

This time, rather than ranking or scoring, I simply want to share the experience of our last stops. Interestingly enough, a common thread connected them all: lobster. Present in every menu, sometimes subtle, sometimes flamboyant, always memorable.

Cuisine & Nous | Tilff

We kicked off with Cuisine & Nous in Tilff — a safe choice recommended by friends. The restaurant’s reputation for consistency proved true: beautifully presented dishes, well-thought flavors, and service that makes you feel welcome.

It was a delightful evening with friends, a warm atmosphere and refined cuisine. Yet, if I am honest, no “wow” moment either. Culinary execution was flawless, but not adventurous. Still, if you are looking for a reliable, enjoyable night out with quality food, this address delivers exactly that.

A safe bet for a good evening — nothing more, nothing less.

Didier Galet | Sprimont

Next came a romantic lobster lunch at Didier Galet’s Maison des Saveurs. And here, the experience was a notch higher. Their lobster claws with smoky sourness and gazpacho texture remain etched in my memory — a true highlight that deserves to become a signature dish.

The menu unfolded like a gentle waltz: from the maitrank aperitif to ravioli with reduced jus, roasted lobster chest in furikake, and finishing with a mirabelle composition. All served on the terrace, with a smiling service team ensuring everything felt effortless.

One small frustration that became almost tradition: the carrot sorbet… always too small!

Still, Didier Galet stays true to its reputation: consistency, creativity, and pleasure. A place I will always be happy to return to when visiting Belgium.

Un Max de Goût | Comblain-au-Pont

Then came a revisit to Un Max de Goût in Comblain-au-Pont, recently crowned with its first Michelin star. A well-deserved recognition. More than a restaurant, it is a place with heart — supporting “Move for Children” while serving a menu that balances finesse with generosity.

Our terrace lunch was spot-on from start to finish:

Tabreux veal with cockles, cucumbers, and Belgian caviar Mackerel with tomato and basil Tabreux beef with peppers and choron sauce Blue lobster with eggplant and bisque Coucou de Malines with mushrooms and truffles Melon with vanilla and fennel

Each plate was a success, including the show of Max himself cooking at the table. Elegant, precise, and flavorful. If I had to put my money on it, I would not be surprised if a second Michelin star joins the first before I conclude my role in HCMC.

A must-visit in the region — full stop.

La Table de Manon | Durbuy – Grandhan

Finally, as a farewell with our foodie friends, we chose La Table de Manon. Once again, lobster was the star of the show, from nori-gelled mayonnaise to grilled stuffed peppers. The menu was creative, refined, and enjoyable.

Yet… it didn’t quite live up to our first visit, which had set the bar very high. Make no mistake — it was still delicious, and our friends were delighted. But sometimes, the second time is harder to match the first impression.

Still, La Table de Manon remains a gem in Durbuy — intimate, inventive, and worth visiting.

A Foodie Goodbye, A New Chapter Ahead

So, our Belgian chapter closed on lobster — four restaurants, four different expressions of this noble ingredient, and many shared moments of joy, romance, and friendship.

Now, the culinary compass points east. Next stories will come from Vietnam, where new flavors, new inspirations, and new discoveries await. Perhaps a health article here, a professional thought there… but rest assured, the food will not be far away.

Stay tuned — the adventure continues.