Where to eat with your hands in Brussels - Toukoul restaurant

There are not many things as intimate as feeding another person, let alone if it is with your bare hands. Plus, they say that love comes from the stomach. Preparing a perfect bite for the loved one, mixing a fusion of different meals, wrapping it all in a traditional tortilla and finally putting that bite into someone’s mouth can be something definitely worth remembering. In some places, it is a beloved tradition considered to bring good luck. So, when you are there, why not try it out, relax, indulge yourself with something different and enjoy your evening. Continuing with the revealing of another place where to eat with your hands in Brussels, allow me to present you the lovely Toukoul restaurant.

Toukoul Restaurant

Rue de Laeken 34, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Last week I had the great opportunity and pleasure to visit this extravagant Ethiopian restaurant in the heart of Brussels with someone who loves exploring new things and trying out exotic food with me. His adventurous spirit always inspires me to explore new spots and dare to try, even if that means maybe not liking it afterwards. This time, he was the one who, amongst many choices,  picked this restaurant, hoping we would actually sit on the floor while eating with our hands and have the most memorable experience. Unfortunately, that was not the case, at least in terms of sitting on the floor. However, the whole evening turned out to be wonderfully memorable.

My recommendation is to still book a table in advance, as Toukoul restaurant may get really crowded. Although, we arrived earlier in the evening, right before the restaurant got really full and the live music started to warm up the whole atmosphere. I must admit that once we entered we spent the first few minutes just looking around at the authentic interior of Toukoul restaurant. In case you are obsessed with Instagramable spots, then you have found the one. Even if your stomach is growling like crazy, you will stop for a moment to appreciate this place.

We were seated on a regular table (and not the floor), when the lovely and patient waitress greeted us. She was so kind to explain to us most of the dishes, the principle of big platter (as we wanted to share and try different things) and the tradition of feeding another person with a first bite. Not a huge fan of spicy food, I selected fish while he selected lamb which in my opinion was way more delicious. If you enjoy hot and spicy food, then you've found your perfect place.

The first glass of wine arrived, followed by an exotic appetizer, then another glass of wine, then the main course, then another glass of wine. All that, with the warm conversation, cosy interior and cheerful music will most certainly make your evening. Make sure you bring your open mind, and relax and enjoy the place.

Cover photo credit @MagicBones