Unusual Restaurants and Cafes We’ve Visited: We Suggest You Visit too!
SMAKELIJK!: The First Belgian Brasserie In Monte-Carlo Opens Its Door
Le Méridien Beach Plaza is delighted to announce the opening of its new restaurant in Monaco: Smakelijk! A jovial, gourmet Belgian neo-brasserie that is out of the ordinary.
The first Belgian brewery in Monaco
Following the success of the new summer restaurant Muse in 2023, Le Méridien Beach Plaza opens a brand new restaurant concept in 2024, the first Belgian Brasserie in Monaco: Smakelijk!
Its surprisingly Nordic-sounding name and punctuation immediately give a clue to the character of the place, and means “Bon Appétit” in Flemish. The motto “ça goûte bien” (“it tastes good”) completes this promise of gourmet discovery that is both familiar, yet exotic.
Smakelijk’s ambition is to take guests on a journey to Belgium, a country known as much for its conviviality as its specialties, to create a memorable & tasteful experience.
Smakelijk! is a refreshing culinary surprise, where the joviality of the Belgian spirit reigns.
The bold decor of an art nouveau brasserie
Facing the sea, Smakelijk! is inspired by Belgian brasseries of yesteryear, enhanced by a light art nouveau twist.
The Adjamé design studio, headed by Talissa Bachelot and Alice Calemard, took the reins of the new decor of this new gourmet venue. They take up the challenge with panache for the 3rd time at Le Méridien Beach Plaza, having already shaped the visual identity of the Beach Club “Muse” and the private apartment “915” in 2023.
Their artistic direction is oriented towards a daring style, creating a marriage between 20th-century Belgian art nouveau and the authentic identity of the brasseries. The decor is full of character: floral, whip-lined and striped prints, colours ranging from verdigris to the warmth of spices, and iconic brasserie materials such as earthenware and hammered glass. The whole is a harmonious mix and match between kitsch and contemporary, a true decoration incarnate.
When you open the door to Smakelijk!, you’re immediately immersed in a warm atmosphere, with its comfortable banquettes and uniquely styled furniture, all chosen in an original way. In fact, the service consoles and the shelves with their vases are from flea markets. The curtains and fabrics for the banquettes were specially made by local upholsterers.
The brewery’s vegetation has also been themed, with “stabilized flowers” symbolizing the Art Nouveau era: irises, tulips, thistles and cornflowers…
Smakelijk! offers an immersive experience in a neo-brasserie setting, boldly blending tradition and modernity.
Iconic Belgian gastronomic specialties
Le Méridien Beach Plaza’s culinary director Laurent Colin has decided to surprise his guests. He’s banking on top-quality Belgian brasserie cuisine that’s varied, fresh and generous.
Together with his deputy, Executive Chef Alexandre Lamberet, he imposes sure values and an authentic cuisine, with the great classics of Belgian gastronomy.
Spaghetti with carbonade, boulets de Liège and Belgian fries, vol au vent with duck confit and foie gras, American beef tartare, tomatoes stuffed with shrimp or cod au vert and shellfish are proud ambassadors.
Pastry Chef Julien Beaulieu is also on hand to delight all food lovers with a selection of timeless Belgian desserts, including Brussels waffle, French toast cramique, Callebaut hot chocolate soufflé and café liégeois.
Smakelijk! is a true celebration of Belgian gastronomy, a convivial and exotic treat.
An ethnic collection of Belgian wines and beers
Head sommelier Jonathan Durante has created an exclusive list of Belgian wines and beers to provide a taste adventure with every sip. The menu is the fruit of meetings with passionate winemakers and brewers.
Belgian beer has been officially listed as a UNESCO intangible heritage since 2016. Now it’s making its way onto refined tables, and has never been so trendy. Belgian breweries combine tradition and innovation to offer beverages that are so out of the ordinary that they have elevated the drink to the status of a national treasure. Now it’s reaching out to all wine lovers who are curious to discover new vintages and crus by exploring a rich aromatic palette, with infinite nuances of flavour: bitter, floral, citrus, spicy, herbal, fruity…
The epicurean exploration of Belgium continues with a curated selection of wines with a Brussels accent. The winemakers have freed themselves from the specifications of designation of origine to offer original blends with unbridled creativity. Jonathan chose the Winery Gudule, which focuses on wines that tell a heartfelt story and inspire memorable encounters: “Soirée à l’Opéra”, “After Work en terrasse”…
As service is at the heart of the tasting experience and dishes traditionally cooked in brasseries, old-fashioned sommelier techniques have been brought up to date to be performed in front of the guests. Wine tasting will be enhanced by a traditional presentation, with service in a basket, decanting by candlelight or opening with port tongs.
Smakelijk! is a Belgian micro-brassery and wine cellar, an ode to the Belgian bon vivant.
An immersion in Belgian culture
An experience at Smakelijk! is much more than a meal: it’s the promise of a Belgian escape. It’s the discovery of “the flat country” that surprises with its infinite richness. Guests will find themselves immersed in the heart of a Belgian brasserie, with its mouth-watering specialties, a carefully selected collection of wines and beers and a traditional decor created with flair by the decorating duo.
Smakelijk! is the new gastronomic discovery to be discovered in Monaco.
Information & Reservations
Non-stop service every day from 12pm to 11pm
Valet parking Starters from €12
Main course from €24
Dessert from €9
Set Lunch at €26, including starter, main course, water and coffee
Smakelijk!
Le Méridien Beach Plaza, 22, Avenue Princesse Grace, 98 000, Monaco
Reservations: +377 93 15 78 88
smakelijk.montecarlo@lemeridien.com
www.smakelijk-monaco.com
Facebook/Instagram: @smakelijk restaurant_monaco
ANOÏA: A NEW CULINARY ADVENTURE IN MONACO
Monaco’s gastronomic landscape is on the verge of a revolution with the opening of the Anoïa restaurant, which is located in the emblematic space formerly occupied by Café Loga, in the heart of the prestigious Boulevard des Moulins. Anoïa promises an unprecedented fusion between tradition and innovation, introducing a unique concept to Monaco: a specialty of Breton crepes and pancakes, while retaining the traditional dishes appreciated at Café Loga.
Anoïa offers an unparalleled culinary experience, from breakfast to dinner, including a friendly aperitif. Every moment of the day is an invitation to discover or rediscover authentic flavours in an exceptional setting.
An Innovative and Traditional Concept
Anoïa stands out for its audacity in mixing the authenticity of Breton crepes and pancakes with the traditional flavours that have made the Loga restaurant famous. This alliance promises a varied menu, capable of satisfying the most demanding palates, from the most traditional to the most adventurous.
Chill Time and Festive Moments
Anoïa’s innovation doesn’t stop at its cuisine. The restaurant introduces “Chill Time”, a moment dedicated to relaxation and sharing, ideal for unwinding after a day of work or for a gentle start to an evening. In addition, Anoïa positions itself as the essential place for the organization of events, birthdays, and parties, particularly suitable for children’s celebrations, with dedicated entertainment and a secure space.
A Neat and Chic Decoration
Anoïa’s interior has been designed to reflect the quality and elegance of its cuisine. Particular attention has been paid to every detail of the decoration, creating an atmosphere that is both chic and welcoming, which invites relaxation and indulgence. It is an ideal setting for anyone looking to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in a well-kept environment.
An Invitation to Discover Anoïa
Anoïa invites residents and visitors to come and discover its unique culinary world. Whether for a sunny breakfast, a business lunch, a quick treat, a moment of relaxation, a romantic dinner, or to celebrate a special event, Anoïa promises moments of pleasure and conviviality.
Come live the Anoïa experience, where tradition and innovation meet to create unforgettable memories.
Located at 25 Boulevard des Moulins, in the heart of the Principality, Anoïa is the new jewel of gastronomy, offering a unique culinary experience combining the Breton and Monegasque origins of its owners.
Anoïa
25, Bd des Moulins, 98000 Monaco
+377 93 30 87 72
anoia@monaco.mc
https://anoiamonaco.com/
Le Deli Robuchon Monaco: the name of the great chef is back on the Monaco map
There are certain experiences you want to live through again and again. There are certain century-long historic places you want to walk through again and again. And there are certain opportunities never to be missed out on!
Joël Robuchon’s history in Monaco goes back to 2004, with the opening of his outstanding restaurant at the Metropole Hotel. His two-Michelin-starred gastronomic marvel, however, closed down in 2015 which felt like the end of a remarkable story… The opening of Le Deli Robuchon Monaco in 2024, however, marks a start of yet another chapter.
Strolling along the old buildings on Boulevard des Moulins, admiring the stained glass windows of St. Charles Church, you will certainly bump into a golden-lettered sign on a snow-white canopy. Here you will be greeted by friendly staff, inviting you to explore its marble-tabled terrace and wicker chairs.
The restaurant’s interior (typically tiny for Monaco) offers a large selection of local delicacies and even sturgeon caviar. Treat yourself to its freshest of bread, croissants, home-baked buns and desserts by the local pastry chefs. If you are really hungry, then you are in the right place. The restaurant’s chefs boast an unparalleled mastery of French cuisine, simple and yet refined. Breakfast or lunch, aperitif or afternoon snack — quench your hunger and thirst for beauty any time of the day.
Le Deli Robuchon is a delicatessen, a coffee shop with its fresh bakery and a traditional French cuisine restaurant with a special attention to detail, all-in-one. This is a great example of a story that does not need to be rewritten, but rather highlighted with new tastes and aromas, capturing life’s every moment, never ceasing to amaze us!
Le Deli Robuchon
3 Avenue Saint Laurent, 98000 Monaco
+377.93.25.65.66
https://robuchonmonaco.com
info@robuchonmonaco.com
8 a.m to 8 p.m, Monday to Saturday
Nespo reinterprets the great French traditions with chic and brilliance
Sharon Stone, Elton John, Rihanna, Naomi Campbell… this Nice restaurant has become a place to be for celebrities.
An incredible success story! Located in Nice centre, this former temple of Sicilian cuisine “Villa Corleone”, now re-branded, is truly favoured by the stars. Top sportsmen, Formula-1 drivers, show biz influencers, actors and celebrities jostle in this sober and chic restaurant on Boulevard Victor Hugo. Small discreet tables, white tablecloths, floral decor, cozy candlelight atmosphere at night… Everything here is effortless harmony, tasty and refined.
“Nespo” (short for the name of its young owner Sebastien Nespolo) focuses on quality without aiming for gastronomic distinction. “We have a special philosophy. We want to offer traditional cuisine prepared with the greatest care using high-end products. At the same time, we are not aiming at either originality, or innovation, or Michelin stars.” No revolutionary flavours or flowers on the plates here. The restaurant is reviving great French classics such as blanquette de veau, peppered beef fillet, sole meunière or a sweet veal. You may also taste snails and frog legs, quite a rarity these days. This is all about avoiding fuss to offer simple, healthy, efficient cuisine. The result is an art that the kitchen team has mastered brilliantly.
Ensuring perfect cooking, it brings the food in its best form. Same dishes often come up on the menu, ensuring the restaurant its solid clientele of regulars.
This is why residents of this upscale Nice district often rub shoulders with celebrities. Nespo respects everyone’s privacy in an atmosphere that is both gentle and festive. Even if this place has certainly become “the place to be”, it still feels a bit like home.
When Elton John, who doesn’t eat sweet foods, asks for a sugar-free chocolate mousse, the kitchen is busy granting his wish. As for Naomi Campbell, she is a fan of “Nespo” breakfast ever since the boss reserved a table exclusively for her. It’s a special time in the morning, during the non-opening hours.
As to the rapper Rihanna, who once came late in the evening, she just couldn’t leave and stayed until 6 a.m.!
Among the celebrities who have tasted the restaurant’s cuisine, Sharon Stone kindly posed for an immortal moment with its owner. The famous American actress promised to come back whenever she possibly could. Following her example, more and more people are sharing the address of this classy and trendy place. Its meteoric rise now makes the restaurant one of the trendiest French Riviera establishments.
Nespo
48, Bd Victor Hugo, Nice
www.nespo-restaurant.com
Tel 06 0381 1481
Open from Tuesday to Saturday lunch and dinner and Sunday evening.
