Taste of Culture of Taste, the perfect new slogan for this absolutely legendary place, once dedicated to lovers of fine reading, leather-bound books, stalls, and shelves filled with thousands of works and just as many stories to read.



The Galerie Bortier, a small, intimate, almost secret passage, was designed 175 years ago to connect Brussels' first covered food market at Saint-Jean with La Madeleine.
Over time, it became the go-to spot for savvy antiquarians, booksellers, and bookbinders.
Its history and millions of visitors have left their mark on its magnificent ornaments, its walls, and its immense glass roof, imbued with this unique blend of knowledge and Belgian culinary culture. But that was before. The Galerie Bortier slowly lost its splendor, its buzz, and consequently, its clientele.
Dust took over, but this is Brussels, a city where places that intertwine popularity, culture, gastronomy, creativity, and conviviality are never left behind.

Taste of Culture of Taste, then, is the slogan for the newly revitalized Galerie Bortier, recently unveiled to the press.



Thierry Goor and Pascal van Hamme, founders of the Food Market FOX, have taken up the challenge not only to breathe new life into this iconic space but to enhance its promise of once again bringing crowds together around books, art, gastronomy, antique treasures, and memorable encounters.



What a magnificent project this is, executed to perfection, delivering a "just like before, but even better" version of this warm and unique place in the capital. A true hub for meeting people, high-quality experiences, exploration, and endless possibilities to savor life among the artisans who have now returned to set up shop in the passage.



Today, you can travel the world simply by spending time here. Multiple destinations await on this gastronomic journey.


"Octopus never leaves anyone indifferent," especially when prepared by César Lewandowski, a Top Chef 2023 candidate, at his Polpo stand—a must-try.



Continue your journey beyond the Mediterranean to India with Yves Mattagne, the two-star chef, and his son, who transport you to a world of spices and curries at their Comptoir Indien. Experience the incredible flavors of Lebanon, explore the Italian deli, or give in to the temptation of an incredible charcuterie board paired with cheeses from Hélène and Lara Milan—a gentle madness.



Lovers are always welcome here too. Ben the florist offers fantastic blooms, and there's a perfect terrace for a good coffee and some reading at the literary café run by Laura Cornil.

And for a unique and precious gift, lovingly sourced, the antique dealer is your go-to.
All of this is found at Galerie Bortier. Taste of Culture of Taste—beware, you might step inside and not come out anytime soon.
Life here is sweet, indulgent, and beautiful.