L'Excelsior

Nudge open the wooden door of L’Excelsior, one of the most elegant establishments on Mons’ Grand-Place. After 100 years here, it’s a venue that’s packed with character; with rows of leather banquettes reminiscent of an old-fashioned Chesterfield, coloured lights, art déco windows letting in pastel shades of light, you can taste some of the many beers served here with experience and professionalism. If you’re hungry you can try some traditional dishes like the pork chop à la montoise (sauce with cream, mushrooms and lardons – sinfully good) or “al’berdouille” (sauce with vegetables – if you’re looking for forgiveness) served with piping hot chips that temptingly fill the menu. If you’re in a hurry, you can order the dish of the day or the house steak tartare. But the menu doesn’t stop there: check out the chef’s specials on the boards. There is all sorts of warming comfort food available for a cold winter’s night, and you can order from one of the elegant waiters as they move gracefully from one table to the next, with a joke and a smile for everyone. L’Excelsior serves reassuring, unpretentious food for a deliciously classic and enjoyable dining experience.