Young adults enjoying cocktailsMorton Place

Tips for Commission Stagiaires

7 Essential Tips for Commission Stagiaires: Surviving Your first weeks in Brussels 🇪🇺

 

We often welcome Schuman trainees at Morton Place during the busy March and October stagiaire season. Based on our 15 years of experience welcoming newcomers to Brussels, here are some of our most commonly asked questions and top tips for quickly settling into your new city.

 

🚇 Public Transport: Navigating the City with Ease

The Brussels transportation system goes by the acrobym STIB/MIVB, covering metros, trams, and buses. The metro has a bit of a 70’s feel, and the music playing in the stations is odd, but it works.

 

For trainees commuting daily, the MOBIB card is the best option. You can choose between a Personal MOBIB Card, which is linked to your name and allows for monthly or annual passes, or a MOBIB Basic Card, which is anonymous and only reloadable with individual tickets.

To make your arrival smoother, you can order your MOBIB card online in advance via the STIB website and have it ready when you arrive. Alternatively, you can purchase it at BOOTIK sales outlets, KIOSK service desks, or GO vending machines in metro stations.

If you expect to use public transport regularly, a monthly pass (€49 for under-26s, €58 standard)  pays off if you take more than 26 trips a month, which is easily reached if you commute to the Commission or Parliament every day plus explore the city.

Tip: The Mobib card does not get you to the airport, for that you need to buy a special Airport Supplement.

 

🚲 Cycling & E-Scooters: for the brave?

Brussels is getting used to sharing the road with bicycles and scooters, but it can some times be tricky! If you are one of the brave there are a couple of options:

Villo! provides both regular and electric bikes at docking stations across the city

Dott and Lime offer dockless e-bikes and e-scooters.

If you want a bike without the hassle of maintenance,  Swapfiets is a popular subscription service with signature blue wheeled bikes—offering a personal bike for a monthly fee, with free repairs included.

Tip:  Some communes, such as Uccle, Watermael-Boitsfort, and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, don’t allow you to drop off shared bikes and scooters. Be sure to check the app map before ending your ride to avoid extra fees.

🛒 Where to Shop for Groceries & Fresh Food

Supermarkets in Brussels vary from budget-friendly options such as the international chains Lild and Aldi, Colruyt is a popular local alternative. Mid and higher end stores are Intermarché,  Carrefour and Delhaize.

 

A good way to discover the city is to take in the popular  markets in Flagey (Sundays), Chatelain (Wednesdays), and Parvis de Saint-Gilles (Thursday-Saturday) to stock up on fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and enjoy the popular drinks and nibbles stands.

🍽️ Eating Out & Food Delivery

Lunch at the commission can vary from eating in the staff canteen to heading out to the numerous cafés and restaurants in the EU quarter.

If you want to order food in for the evenings UberEats and Deliveroo are the more popular Apps.

🚑 Healthcare & Emergencies

Before arriving in Brussels, it’s a good idea to bring copies of your medical prescriptions, including those for glasses, regular meds, or essential treatments. While pharmacies are easy to find (just look for a green cross sign), not all are open late. If you need one outside regular hours, you can find the nearest on-duty pharmacy at Pharmacie.be.

For general healthcare, BruCare and MediTeam offer English-speaking doctors, while the emergency number 112 connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services.

💳 Banking: Avoiding Fees & Finding Cash 

Most places in Brussels accept contactless payments, but it’s worth checking whether your foreign bank charges transaction fees before you start tapping away. Some international banks also restrict Apple Pay and Google Pay abroad, so it’s a good idea to check yours before arriving. Paying with  QR codes is popular and is called “CONIQ”.

Many of our residents recommend Wise and Revolut for managing international payments with no foreign transaction fees, excellent exchange rates, and Apple Pay compatibility. If you prefer to open a local Belgian account, ING, KBC, and BNP Paribas Fortis are the most popular banks, but if you are only staying for a few months, its unlikely to be worth the hassle

Tip: If you need cash, banks no longer have ATM’s, look for a CASH point: an interbank ATM network all over the city.

🏡 Where to Buy Essential Bedroom & Home Items

If you need to quickly set up your bedroom with essentials, check out these affordable and easy-to-access stores:

  • HEMA– Dutch shop which as all household essentials. Great for duvets, pillows, towels, and home essentials, with locations on Avenue Louise and Rue Neuve so nearby to the EU quarter.
  • Action– A discount store selling cheap bedding, storage boxes, and kitchen essentials.
  • Carrefour Hypermarket– Large supermarkets that sell bedding and homeware.

A bit further out is IKEA Anderlecht, if you prefer the Swedish superstore!

If you’re arriving late or don’t have time to shop in person, click & collect services at IKEA, HEMA, and Carrefour can be a convenient solution.

 

Entree Morton Place Louise

 

 

📢 Want More Tips? Stay Connected!

📩 Sign up for our Newcomers’ Newsletter for insider tips on settling in, local events, and life at Morton Place! Tips For Newcomers

🏡 Looking for a hassle-free living experience?
Find out more about joining Morton Place and making Brussels feel like home. Click here to learn more!

Christmas Shopping in Brussels

When I go home for Christmas, I really like to bring gifts that have some connection to Brussels, my “new” home. Unlike our bigger neighbors, Belgium is often  less well known so these gifts are a good opportunity to showcase and introduce future visitors to this wonderful country. Below are some shops I keep in mind to find gifts for young and old. Happy shopping!

 

 

credit- Musées Royaux de Belgique

  1. Magritte Museum Shop

Nothing evoques Belgium more than an image from the painter René Magritte. Located in the Magritte Museum, this shop is ideal for art lovers and fans of Belgian surrealism. Here, you’ll find exclusive products inspired by the works of René Magritte, including posters, books, home decor items, and quirky accessories. Each item captures Magritte’s distinctive style, making it a perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir.

 Musée Magritte 

credit – Walther Konig Bookshop Bozar

  1. Bozar Shop

At the Center for Fine Arts, the Bozar Shop offers a blend of contemporary Belgian art and culture with art books, designer accessories, and decorative items. Known for its limited-edition collections tied to exhibitions, it’s a great place to find something exclusive and stylish that reflects Belgium’s vibrant art scene.

 Bozar

Credit – Tintin Imaginatio

3. Tintin Boutique

The Tintin Shop in Brussels is a must-visit for fans of Belgium’s beloved comic character, Tintin or “Kuijfje” in Dutch. Located in the heart of the city, this shop is dedicated entirely to the adventurous world created by Hergé, offering a range of high-quality merchandise such as figurines, posters, books, and limited-edition collectibles. Each item is a recognizable piece of Belgian pop culture, making it the perfect gift for friends and family back home. With Tintin’s global popularity and iconic status, these unique souvenirs bring a fun and nostalgic touch of Belgium to any fan’s collection.

La Boutique Tintin 

credit- Belgian Beer World

4. Belgian Beer World

For the beer fans on your list, the gift shop at the Belgian Beer world on the Brouckere is a terrific shop. From specialty beer glasses, to fun bottle openers or beer related gadgets there is something for any budget or size constraint. Spend some time sampling some beers to round out your shopping trip!

Belgian Beer World

credit – Maison Dandoy

5. Maison Dandoy

No trip to Brussels would be complete without a stop at Maison Dandoy. This legendary bakery, established in 1829, is famous for its traditional speculoos cookies and artisanal waffles. Made with all-natural ingredients, these treats are perfect for bringing a taste of Belgium home. Dandoy’s beautifully packaged goods make for delightful gifts—or a delicious souvenir for yourself.

Maison Dandoy

 

These shops offer a diverse selection of Belgian gifts, many with terrific packaging – allowing you to share a bit of what makes Belgium special with your friends and family back home. Safe travels for those of you going home for the holidays!

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Can You See Yourself at Morton Place? 

We hope that you’ll join our Morton Place community! As a resident in one of our homes it is our mission to help you settle into Brussels smoothly and enjoying all that this city has to offer. All the while delivering you the unique benefits of a chic, all-inclusive, coliving environment. Feel free to reach out anytime! Email us

Volunteer Opportunities for English Speakers in Brussels

The holiday season is a time for giving and community spirit. For those in Brussels who want to volunteer but don’t speak French or Dutch, there are still many ways to get involved. Here are some organizations that welcome non-French/Dutch speaking volunteers. Whether you want to commit regular time or just a few hours, here’s how you can make a difference.

General Volunteer Opportunities

  1. Give a Day

A great starting point is the Give a Day website, where you can find a variety of volunteering options across Brussels. These include one-off events like working at Brussels Pride or a food bank, as well as recurring activities at community centers.

Give A Day

 

  1. Serve the City Brussels

Serve the City  is known for welcoming volunteers regardless of language skills. Opportunities include serving meals to the homeless, distributing clothes, and teaching English to refugees. You can sign up for weekly events using their user-friendly app.

Serve the City 

 

  1. Red Cross Belgium

Some Red Cross locations offer volunteer roles for English speakers, such as teaching English in shelters. Volunteers can also help with donation sorting and holiday events for underprivileged communities.

Red Cross Brussels 

Expat Community Support

  1. Girl Guide and Scout Leadership Roles

If you’re here long-term, consider joining English-speaking groups of Girl Guides, Rainbows, and Scouts. Leadership roles involve planning outdoor adventures and mentoring. Check out the British Guides in Foreign Countries  or Scouts in Brussels websites for local chapters and contact them about volunteering.

 

  1. International Sports Associations

Several international sports leagues in Brussels offer coaching opportunities for English speakers. You can coach youth sports like football, rugby, or tennis, and assist with organizing community events.

Reach out to the Brussels Sports Association or Brussels Celtic Rugby Club for more information.

 

  1. Community Help Service

Community Help Service offers volunteer opportunities for English speakers, particularly in mental health support, assistance lines, and community outreach. Engaging with CHS can be a rewarding way to offer help to those in need, especially during the holiday season. CHS

Even without speaking the local languages, you can contribute significantly to the Brussels community. A great way to give back and perhaps make new friends at the same time. Check out these organizations to find the right fit for you this holiday season. Happy volunteering!

 

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Our Favorite Gyms in Brussels – updated 2024

Discover the Best Gyms in Brussels – Morton Place Guide for Newcomers

Brussels houses a range of fitness options, from the upmarket luxurious options to affordable yet effective fitness centres. Gyms are also a great way to make new friends – once you settle into your routine you will recognize familiar faces attending at the same time or enjoying the same instructors as you. We bring you a well-curated list of gyms that offer the best of what Brussels has to offer at locations convenient to the EU quarter and where Morton Place residents live and like to go out. We recommend trying a day pass to see which environment suits you best and remember to read the fine print before signing any contract!

 

credit – Mix Brussels

1. Mix Brussels: Gym and Wellness in green setting 

The recently renovated Royale Belge building set in a forest like area with huge outdoor pool has been converted into a multi use facility with coworking space, lavish gym, spa and hotel. A monthly membership gives you access to their gorgeous gym as well as numerous events such as DJ sets, outdoor bbqs and more. Just a short tram ride into Boisfort, one of the smallest and greenest communes of Brussels. Highly recommended.

Pool at the Aspria gym in Brussels

credit – Aspria Brussels

2. Aspria: Full service gym steps from the office
Located at a stone’s throw distance from the EU quarter, Aspria offers a premium fitness experience that extends beyond mere workouts. As an upmarket gym, it pampers its members with high-end facilities, a range of fitness classes in 5 different fitness rooms. If you love a class after a long day at work, or a quick workout during your lunch break this is the gym for you. The full service spa is an added bonus for extra pampering. If you are someone who enjoys a sprinkle of luxury and loads of classes to choose from, Aspria should be your go-to destination.

Our tip: Check out the fabulous indoor pool, the only one in the EU quarter!

credit – Basic Fit


3. Basic Fit: When Cheap and Cheerful fits the bill

If straightforward and budget-friendly is your fitness motto, Basic-Fit is your destination. Spread across various locations in the city, it offers a huge selection of solo or group workouts, ensuring that keeping fit becomes an integral part of your daily routine. Each gym has a neighborhood feel, with the staff greeting members by name. The music is amped up, the crowd is focused and the equipment is plentiful. As an added bonus, the proximity to Morton Place practically eliminates all excuses – there’s a Basic Fit within 200m of all our houses!

Our Tip: Check out Basic-Fit Ladies for a female-only environment that feels both empowering and intimate

credit- Animo Studios Brussels

4. Animo Studios: Chic Fitness with a Touch of Pampering
Animo Studios is the latest hotspot for fitness enthusiasts looking for a modern and stylish approach to health and wellness. This is a boutique fitness class experience where you attend classes or private training sessions only. Conveniently situated near Flagey, Louise, and Brugmann, the studios offer top-quality group classes in a range of popular styles – think yoga, pilates, general fitness, and cycling.

Fabulous music, beautiful surroundings and the best part? You don’t need to commit to a subscription. Their pay-as-you-go option makes it easy for you to dial up or down your commitment. These group classes are not only fun but also pack a punch, and spots fill up fast through their user-friendly app.

Treat yourself to a luxurious shower experience in their dressing areas, complete with exclusive beauty products and a calming ambiance. Animo Studios not only promises a challenging workout but a refreshing and pampering post-exercise routine.

credit- Yoga Room

5. Yoga Room: Find your Inner Peace
For those who are inclined towards a more reflective and calming fitness routine, we recommend the Yoga Room. A popular choice amongst yoga enthusiasts with a range of levels from beginners to experts, the Yoga Room offers a serene and welcoming environment where you can practice yoga under the guidance of experienced instructors. Classes are taught in English and French. The studios are chic and clean, with a friendly welcome staff and a soothing cup of herbal tea to settle you down. The formula is pay as you go, so no subscription services and there are hundreds of classes at all times of day. Whether you want early morning focus sessions or after work cool down there is always a class when you need it.

Our Tip: For a perfect Sunday, try the Hot Yoga at the Brugmann location, followed by a nutritious brunch at the local favorite, Seven. It’s a delightful way to end your week!

credit – Corpus Pilates

 

6. Corpus Studios Pilates: For specialised care in a friendly setting

Venture a bit closer to the EU quarter to find Corpus Pilates, a boutique gem focusing exclusively on Pilates classes, making it the most comprehensive choice in Brussels. Whether at their cosy studio near the EU quarter or the expansive specialised location near Flagey, you’ll find highly trained instructors guiding you through nuanced Pilates sessions, perfect for enthusiasts of all levels. It’s not just a fitness centre, but an insider’s choice for a boutique Pilates experience.

Our Tip: Friday evening classes are a perfect wind down after a week of work with the option to enjoy a glass at the nearby Place Flagey with friends or fellow pilates classmates.

Embarking on a new chapter in this city means more than just adapting to a new home—it’s about embracing a community filled with potential friendships and connections. In a new city, forming friendships can start with simple, shared experiences, and what better place to start than your local gym?

Here’s to staying fit, enjoying your time, and forging new friendships in Brussels!

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Morton Place Horta: Sneak Peek

Colorful Inspiration

As we get ready to share Morton Place Horta with you, I wanted to give you a sneak peek at what we are working on to make this house unique. We are in the final, most exciting parts of the preparation of Morton Place Horta  as the floors are sanded and painted, the walls have been primed to receive their final coats of paint and the bricks are being laid in the back patio.  All of our design choices take inspiration from our fabulous Art Nouveau windows. 

Colored paints  and wallpapers are going up! 

If you are familiar with our other homes, you know that color is a huge part of our signature look. When I first arrived in Brussels, I found myself in a boxy, white-walled rental flat with glaring overhead lights and a rock hard couch.  For a city so full of architectural character, my home was emphatically charm free. I wanted Morton Place to represent all of the warmth and coziness my business flat lacked. This House has three distinctive stained glass windows in Art Nouveau style which immediately set the tone for the colors of the house. 

Claudia takes the lead on this, choosing the yellows, greens and even some pink paint  and wallpapers for each bedroom and common space. Expect some bold choices for our three home offices, making perfect backdrops for video calls.
As always at Morton Place, we prefer to offer individual bathrooms. For this house, we’ve had a lot of fun with with colorful tiles and old fashioned sinks on pedestals, a modern twist on the Art Deco style. 

Common areas

 

This is really where the magic happens. Memories are made in the common spaces of MP, whether it’s a birthday party hosted in the basement, a BBQ in the back courtyard or an evening watching Eurovision in the living room. Isabelle is busy scouring the warehouses of her favorite furniture suppliers to select the best vintage pieces to bring character and comfort to our common areas. We’ve also brought back the fabulous velvet couches so successful at Morton Place Louise. 

 

Plenty of Work from Home  Space 

Everytime we enter the Houses, we notice that residents are working from everywhere. At Morton Place Louise residents like gathering at the dining table, each typing away or listening to a meeting on their headphones and stepping away to their rooms for calls. At Morton Place Chatelain the home offices are always in use and the privacy curtain for calls is a big hit. At Morton Place Horta we will have two offices with full privacy and roomy comfortable desks in the Suites.

What’s happening Next

In the coming weeks, we hope to get our stained glass windows back from restoration. The lovely team at Atelier Flores have been painstakingly relaying the colorful windows which give the house its cheerful aspect. Keep an eye on our Instagram for pictures of their installation (@mortonplacecoliving). 

 

We hope to have given you a taste of what to expect at Morton Place Horta – sign up here to be the first to know when our previews of the house will begin! 

 

 

Ferris Wheel at Christmas Market in Ghent, Belgium

Our favorite Christmas Markets: Brussels, Ghent and Aachen

Holiday season 2023: Our favorite Christmas Markets

 

As the dark nights close in on Belgium and the rest of northern Europe, cozy christmas markets festooned with twinkling lights are a welcome destination.  At Morton Place, we have a couple of favorites which we have picked out, known for having  a nice mix of food and fun, with a couple of insider tips should you need to step away from the busy stalls.

Brussels Christmas Market: 24 November – 31 December 2023

The Grandest market in Brussels, this market takes place on the Grand Place and extends in the side street for food shops and fun activity stalls. A city wide favorite, it’s rarely too full  and the light show in the Grand Place is not to be missed.

Insider Tips:

– The light and sound show at Grand Place is a spectacle not to be missed. It paints a vibrant picture of the UNESCO world heritage site square every 30 minutes, lasting 10-15 minutes.

– The ice skating rink in front of Bourse and the majestic Ferris Wheel by Place Saint Catherine are must-visits.

– When you need a break,  the bar l’Archiduc*’ is the place to be. Nestled in Dansaertstraat, this legendary cocktail  bar is an oasis amidst the festive bustle.

Location:

-The heart of the festivities lies in Bourse and Sainte Chaterine areas.

How to Get There:

– The market is most easily accessible via Metro Bourse.

Ghent Christmas Market: 7 – 31 December 2023

Ghent is our favorite city day trip from Brussels. An energetic student town with a beautifully preserved historical inner city, the low key Christmas market is a great opportunity to discover this gem of a town.

The Experience:

-Belgium’s best-kept secret awaits! Ghent, with its beautiful canals and rich history, offers a charm that’s hard to rival. Unlike the museum-like vibe of Bruges, Ghent has a pulsating life, thanks to its 40,000-strong student population.

Insider Tips:

– For those who fancy roller skating, the Christmas roller rink at the City Pavillion is an ideal alternative to ice skating. And worry not about the weather, it’s covered!

– For a truly Ghent experience, head to ‘*t Dreupelkot*’ and savor a shot of Genever. With flavors ranging from mango and vanilla to the daring spicy variant, there’s something for everyone. Just remember, sip from the top!

Location:

-The Christmas market spreads from Sint-Baafsplein, through Botermarkt, and up to Klein Turkije, ending at Korenmarkt.

How to Get There:

– Direct trains from Brussels to Ghent take around 30 minutes. Once you arrive, it’s a short walk to the city center.

Insider Tips:

– Fancy roller skating? the Christmas roller rink at the City Pavillion is an ideal alternative to ice skating. And worry not about the weather, it’s covered!

For a truly Ghent experience, head to ‘t Dreupelkot’ and savor a shot of Genever. With flavors ranging from mango and vanilla to the daring spicy variant, there’s something for everyone. Just remember, sip from the top!

Aachen Christmas Market: 24 November – 23 December 2023

The Experience:

-A trip to Germany promises a festive experience like no other. The Aachen market, with its traditional *gluhwein*, printencookies, and the unique environment-friendly roller rink, is a winter wonderland in its own right.

How to Get There:

– Catch the ICE or Thalys from Brussels Midi station. The journey is roughly 1 hour 10 minutes.

Insider Tips:

– A must-try is the Aachener Printen, a local gingerbread cookie steeped in history.

– For those looking to try something other than gluhwein, the golden-hued Aachen Dom liqueur, adorned with the Cathedral’s image, is a treat.

– Don’t miss out on the Oecher Glühwein-Treffs, which takes pride in being the oldest gluhwein stall in the city since 1976.

Location:

The market is sprawled around the imposing Aachen Cathedral.

 

Don’t let the rain get you down! Every market, with its unique character and offerings, is an opportunity to get outside and share in one another’s holiday traditions. So, gather your friends and family, and dive deep into the festive spirit. Here’s to a joyous festive season! 🌟🎄

Rooftop of Warwick Hotel in BrusselsWarwick Hotel
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The Sun is Back: our favorite rooftops in Brussels

Summer’s back in Brussels: Our Favorite Rooftop Hot Spots 

Sun’s out, fun’s out! Whether you’re in the mood for sunset cocktails or a weekend in the park with friends, soak up summer at some of our favorite rooftops. Most are tried and true Morton Place favorites, and others are hot spots we’ve recently discovered.  

 

Courtesy of The Hoxton

Tope at The Hoxton

Just a few months on the scene and  The Hoxton hotel’s rooftop restaurant Tope is already top! Head to this Mexican-inspired terrasse for an apéro afterwork if you’re at nearby Madou, or it’s the perfect place for glamorous cocktails if you happen to be enjoying an evening at the Botanique, either way it’s worth the detour!  The extensive bar menu includes all the classics, plus tequila & mezcal speciality cocktails to pair with trios of tacos  — from the al pastor, to the vegetarian Coliflor, and several variations of chicken, beef and shrimp. Tope is sure to prolong the memories of your summer holiday!  

Tope at The Hoxton, Square Victoria Régina 1, 1210 Brussels  

Mon-Thurs 17:00 to midnight // Fri-Sat 15:00 to 01:00 // Sun 15:00 to midnight

Courtesy of Jam Hotel

 

Perché 

Perché is a long-time MP Chatelain house favorite so make it your neighborhood bar all summer long too! Perched on the roof of the nearby JAM hotel, we can attest that Perché is the ultimate staycation location. The brave will take a dip in the pool while sipping a signature cocktail (can we say Thym Sour and Pineapple Daiquiri anyone?!) Or just tuck into bar snacks while admiring your neighborhood from a new vantage point. Perche? Pourquoi, pas? 

 

Perché at the JAM Hotel, 6th Floor, Chaussée de Charleroi 132, 1060 Saint Gilles

Everyday from 17:00 to 01:00 

Courtesy of Albert

Albert 

Libraries aren’t just for reading, especially at the Royal Library of Belgium. So, ditch the books and head to the sprawling 2200 m2 rooftop terrasse for a Brussels experience like no other. While the hours are limited to align with the bibliothèque, maybe you can duck out of work early to catch the incredible views with a beverage & snack in hand. Or bring your laptop along and keep workingat one of the many comfortable spaces! Best of all you can book a table here for weekend brunch too. 

 

Albert, KBR Building, 5th Floor, Mont des Arts 28, 1000 Brussels

Everyday from 9:00 to 17:00

Courtesy of Warwick Hotel

Secret Rooftop Bar

While it’s not so secret anymore, The Warwick hotel’s rooftop is still worth shouting about. Morton Place residents have long imbibed from the bar’s classic and signature cocktails, and  bubbles, beer and softs. While a destination on its own, this high-in-the-sky sojourn could be the perfect first stop on an evening out downtown. Escape the bustle of central Brussels with views of the Grand Place from this iconic vantage point. 

 

Secret Rooftop Bar at the Warwick Hotel, rue Duquesnoy 5, 1000 Brussels

Mon-Sat 17:00 to 23:00 // Sun 16:00 to 22:00

 

Garden of Buddy Buddy in BrusselsBuddy Buddy

Top 5 Cafés in Saint Gilles – Updated in 2023!

Favorite Coffee Shops Around Saint-Gilles 

We’ve updated our list to include our favorite newcomers to the neighborhood! 

Whether it’s a quick cappuccino to start the day or a powerful pour-over to get you through the afternoon, here’s a list of some of our favorite coffee shops within walking distance of Morton Place.

Enjoy discovering our favorite haunts!

L’Alchimiste

Organic & vegetal coffee bar that offers a fun menu of coffees, teas, fresh juices and other homemade drinks, plus all-day breakfast, vegan lunches, and tons of tasty treats. According to the must-read Brussels Kitchen’s sweet review, Alchimist cafe — with its huge brick wall, overflowing bookshelf, warm-vibes and vintage decor — feels like you’ve stepped into a cozy apartment. You get the picture. And you’ll love the coffee. 

Rue de Savoie 59, 1060 Saint-Gilles
Mon-Fri 7:30 to 15:00 // Sat & Sun 10:00 to 15:00

 

Coffee at l'Alchimiste Brussels

Image courtesy of l’Alchimiste

Belga & Co

This small-but-mighty speciality coffee shop on bustling rue du Bailli is perfect for grabbing a coffee-to-go. Or plant yourself for a while within the deep cacao-colored space for a ‘cuppa’ made with beans roasted weekly at their Antwerp-based roastery. Check out the small menu of savory and sweet bites and if you’re lucky enough for a sunny day, grab a seat on the adorable terrace in front or out back in the garden. 

Rue du Bailli 7A, 1000 Brussels
Mon-Fri 8:00 to 18:00 // Sat & Sun 9:00 to 18:00

Image courtesy of Belga & Co

Buddy Buddy

What do you get when two buddies from France and New Zealand team up in Brussels? One fabulous nut butter & coffee community that’s not to be missed! Buddy Buddy is fully plant-based and creates coffee concoctions that celebrate the organic, speciality nut-butters created in-house. From the keto-friendly “Bulletproof” to the decadent “Le Buddy” & “Praline Mocha,” Buddy Buddy also showcases a variety of iced, batch-brew, plus non-coffee options, making it a must-visit favorite among locals, celebrities, and visiting dignitaries. Run, don’t walk to one of the hottest spots in town! (Hint: it’s just up the street from the Apple Store).

 Rue des Drapiers 10, 1050 Ixelles 
Open everyday 9:00 to 18:00 (closed on Christmas Day)

 

Image courtesy of Buddy Buddy

Hinterland

While the name conjures up remote spaces, this Hinterland is anything but. Buzzy and hip, Hinterland is an independent specialty coffee bar that serves brunch, breakfast and lunch all day. Vintage tile, light wood accents, exposed brick, and good lighting combine to make this corner spot an instant neighborhood fav. Add in the delectable menu featuring bowls, pancakes, eggs, savory toasts… the list goes on and you might never leave!

Chaussée de Charleroi 179, 1060 Saint-Gilles
Mon-Fri 8:00 to 16:00 // Sat & Sun 9:00-17:00 // closed Wed

 

Image courtesy of Hinterland

Kami

Enjoy a range of your favorite specialty and filtered coffees paired with a seasonal, locally-sourced menu. You’ll taste the difference in all of Kami’s quality offerings — with their organic beans roasted at Kolonel Coffee in Antwerp — and feel at home in the brightly decorated space. You could say it’s zen all around. 

Chaussée de Waterloo, 355, 1060 Saint-Gilles
Tue-Fri 8:30 to 16:00 // Sat 10:00 to 17:00 // closed Sun & Mon

Image courtesy of Kami

Maison arriere facade rose porte noire colocation Morton Place Chatelain Morton Place

On the Doorstep of Morton Place Chatelain: Our Favorite Neighborhood Spots

Welcome to the neighborhood of Morton Place Chatelain

You’ll be spoiled for culinary choice living at Morton Place Chatelain — take a quick walk in any direction and you’ll find foodie gems ranging from brunch to burritos to baked goodies. Our St. Gilles neighborhood retains its local and eclectic character, which is why so many of the hottest spots in Brussels also choose to call it home. Here’s our quick guide for exploring some of the city’s best bites, right on your doorstep!

Coffe shop hinterland MP chatelain

Our Local Favorite Coffee & Brunch Spot – Hinterland

While the name conjures up remote spaces, this Hinterland is anything but. Cozy and warm, buzzy and hip, Hinterland is an independent specialty coffee bar that serves brunch, breakfast and lunch all day. Swing by for a coffee to go, or get comfortable with an organic meal in one of the lovely nooks. Vintage tile, light wood accents, exposed brick, and good lighting combine to make this corner spot an instant neighborhood fav. Add in the delectable menu featuring bowls, pancakes, eggs, savory toasts… the list goes on and you might never leave! Chaussée de Charleroi 179, 1060 | Open weekdays 8:00-16:00; Sa/Su 9;00-17:00; closed Wednesdays.

 

Best Bread & Bakery – Blond

 

Blond is the quintessential neighborhood boulangerie. Its name references the color of wheat and also the golden hue of freshly baked bread. Here you’ll find gorgeous baguettes, high quality bread loaves in a variety of flavors, freshly baked pastries and a range of tartes, tartines and sandwiches depending on the day. The line out front just means the goodies are worth waiting for! 

Chaussée de Charleroi 142, 1060 | Open T-F 7:00 – 19:00; Sa 7:00 – 16:00; Su 7:00 – 14:00; closed Mondays

Organic Everything With a Mission – The Barn Bio Market

 

The Barn Bio Market in St. Gilles has everything you need to stock up at home when you don’t feel like eating out. You’ll find a huge selection of bulk items and a rainbow of seasonal produce, curated cheeses & meats, serve-yourself olive oils, juices, spreads, beverages, cereals, pasta and so much more. The Barn Bio Market puts into practice what it preaches – providing sustainable, organic, seasonal, varied products that empower local and regional suppliers. So when you shop at The Barn, you’ll feel good about eating well! 

Chaussée de Charleroi 92, 1060 | Open M 13:00 – 19:30; T-Sa 10:00 – 19:30; Su 8:00 – 11:45

Fresh, Fast, Mexican Food – Donki

Have a craving for comfort food? Want to transport your tastebuds to a sunnier spot? Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, salads, bowls and nachos at Donki, your local casita for delicious Mexican food. You’ll find menu offerings for everyone – vegetarians, vegans and meat-lovers alike!

Guacamole, salsa and queso shine on this menu too. Dine in, takeaway or have this local taste of Mexico delivered right to your door. 

Chaussée de Charleroi 66A, 1060 | Open M-Sa 12:00 – 14:30 and 17:30 – 22:00.

Treats For Your Sweet Tooth – Coco Donuts

 

If you think you’ve tried donuts, think again! Coco Donuts are works of art, full of fun and based on a classic brioche recipe. Founded in 2016, Coco is the first handmade gourmet donut shop in Belgium, with small batches made fresh daily. As delicious to eat as they are beautiful to look at, flavors run the gamut from more than ten types of chocolate combinations to fruity fantasies to cereal and candy topped confections. You’ll also find cookies, cronuts (yes, a mix between a croissant and a donut!), cakes, coffee, and a variety of customized dessert options. 

Chaussée de Charleroi 168, 1060 | Open M-Sa 9:00 – 18:00; Su 10:00 – 18:00.

 

Best Gym on the Block – Basic Fit

 

It’s a good thing there’s a gym nearby with all of this eating! Basic Fit St. Gilles is a full service gym complete with cardio machines, spinning programs, weights, classes, and personal trainers available. While this location is super convenient — just up the street from Morton Place — one benefit of Basic Fit is that you can use any of their gyms in town. Visit Basic Fit online or stop by in person to learn more about their different subscriptions and programs. Chaussée de Charleroi 146/15, 1060 | Open M-F 8:00 – 22:30; Sa/Su 9:00 – 16:00.

Jeune Femmes souriantes avec un verre a la main en soirée organisée a Bruxelles

Shared experiences in Brussels’ coliving for international professionals

Can You See Yourself at Morton Place?

 

We hope you’ll join our Morton Place community! As a resident in one of our homes it’s our mission to help you settle into Brussels while delivering you the unique benefits of a chic, all-inclusive, coliving environment. Feel free to reach out anytime!