At Hotel Amigo, Rocco Forte has crafted a luxurious haven in the heart of Belgium’s capital, with a little help from some local cultural icons.
When Brussels comes to mind, the typical associations are strong beer, mussels and fries, and of course, chocolate. While undeniably tasty, these images don’t quite capture the city’s essence.
Brussels is often dismissed as dull, known mostly as the home of the European Union, and lacking the appeal of more renowned city break destinations like Paris, Milan, or Madrid.
But this is an unfortunate oversight. Brussels actually boasts a lively nightlife scene (as you’d expect with its robust ales), impressive art galleries, stunning architecture, and a warm, welcoming vibe that’s far from the aloofness you might encounter in some of those other European capitals.
Thanks to the celebrated British hotelier Rocco Forte, the city also has a luxury hotel to rival any found in those famed cities.
WHY SHOULD YOU STAY HERE?
The Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Brussels’ main attraction, and Hotel Amigo is situated right on one of the streets that frame this historic square. The location is a standout feature, especially if you’re lucky enough to get a room on a higher floor facing the ancient town hall, where the view of its Gothic rooftop is truly breathtaking.
Stepping into the square to admire the ornate buildings on the surrounding sides is a must—day or night, the sight is spectacular. And from the hotel, you’re just a short walk away from all the key tourist spots. One quirky favorite is the “peeing trio” of statues (yes, it’s as odd as it sounds—Google it). You can also explore the antique shops of Sablon, the labyrinth of cobbled streets in the old town, upscale shopping in the Louise district, and a wealth of art museums showcasing regional masterpieces.
As the sun sets, Brussels’ center comes to life, with lively bars, live music, and restaurants dishing up hearty meals to sustain your night out. Be sure to try the local specialty, Carbonnade Flamande—a rich, slow-cooked beef stew—or explore the wide range of international cuisines on offer.
If you’d rather stay in, Hotel Amigo offers plenty of comfort. The rooms are ideal for a relaxing evening with a streaming service, and the cocktails at the hotel’s bar are some of the finest in town, making for a perfect cozy night in.
HOW’S THE FOOD?
Meals are served in Bocconi, an elegant Italian restaurant that caters to both groups and intimate dinners. While you won’t find the hearty Carbonnade Flamande here, the dining experience is sophisticated, featuring delicacies like olive oil sourced from Rocco Forte’s own Verdura estate in Sicily. The Italian cuisine is top-notch, rivaling the best restaurants in town. Breakfast is a more casual affair, with an extensive buffet and à la carte options—don’t miss the pancakes.
The highlight of the dining scene is Bar Magritte. Proudly celebrating Belgium’s cultural icons, this bar honors the surrealist master René Magritte. Elegant live jazz sets the tone as you sip on inventive cocktails crafted by the legendary mixologist Salvatore Calabrese, each inspired by Magritte’s most famous works. A standout is the Good Faith, a smoky cocktail served in a glass pipe, paying homage to Magritte’s famous pipe paintings.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE?
Though the building once functioned as a prison (with Karl Marx among its past residents), the accommodations now are anything but austere. The rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with ample room to relax. The bathrooms are generously stocked with luxurious Irene Forte products, creating the perfect space for a night of pampering.
Suites take luxury to the next level. The Tintin suite, for instance, is a must for fans of the famous detective, featuring references to his iconic adventures—Steven Spielberg himself stayed here while filming, leaving a signed print behind. There’s also the Diane von Fürstenberg suite, filled with memorabilia from her illustrious career, including silk scarves designed by Andy Warhol and personal messages from the fashion icon herself on the walls.
While Brussels may not always be regarded as glamorous as Paris or Amsterdam, that perception simply stems from a lack of awareness. The city has an abundance of art, culture, cuisine, and charm, ready to captivate even the most discerning traveler. And with Hotel Amigo, Brussels can proudly boast a world-class luxury hotel to match its vibrant spirit.
