Whimsical, but then again one would expect that from a brewery that features a little hop-seeking…read moregnome on its labels. A lot of Belgian breweries are surprisingly tiny operations, but that can't be said about the Chouffe. In 2006, the brewery was purchased by the much larger Duvel Moortgat, and it shows. This brewery and its surrounding area is really quite the enterprise by rural Belgian standards - there's the brewery itself, a tap room, another tap room that serves food, an adjacent full-service restaurant with a stocked trout pond behind it, and a gift shop. This all seems a bit "commercial" and United States/Disney-esque, especially after you've been traipsing around Belgium and rural France visiting decidedly non-commercial breweries that half the time were closed, much less have a freakin' gift shop. There's even a pond with a little island with a gnome-hut on it. It would have to try pretty hard to be more cutesy. Still, there's something to be said for this kind of corporatist professionalism, even if it does somewhat resemble visiting the Epcot Center, if it had a "Belgium" pavilion. You don't have to worry about it being open, which was a constant problem in visiting other breweries throughout the region. There will always be a wide, complete range of its beers available, both for on-site consumption and to take home. And of course, plenty of merch and swag featuring that lovable gnome! A Chouffe tulip glass is a must - and there's even Chouffe coffee and cream liqueurs available, of which we purchased a couple small samplers. Of course, there's also the beer. Even after the Chouffe's purchase by a larger brewery, the flagship La Chouffe strong blonde ale hasn't suffered all that much - it's still one of the better examples of the popular "Belgian Strong Pale Ale" style. I think it's got more going on than either Duvel and Delirium....more fruity, spicy, yeasty, while at the same time being a little cleaner than a La Fin Du Monde. I'd still rank it as my favorite easily-accessible example of the style.

I have lived in Europe for years and have come to accept poor service at restaurants…read more This one took the cake. I sat there for more than 20 mins and was not approached one time for service. There were multiple tables that came in after me and folks were served directly. I am 6'11" or 210 cm tall. Clearly the biggest person in the restaurant, so there is no reason I could not have been seen. Huge let down after traveling from Hawaii to my favorite brewery.

Really nice place along the water in Namur. Lots of options for starters and main entrees…read more Excellent selection of drinks and the dessert menu is choice. The staff was really excellent, but be warned they don't have an English menu and most of the staff did not speak English. They really did great though with everyone trying their best to communicate. We had a large diverse group and everyone really enjoyed all the dishes. I only took pics of the truffle pasta dish and the dessert, but I promise it was all good.

Great location, beautiful restaurant with modern decor, nice service and good food. Unfortunately,…read morethey do not serve moules.

One of the best diing experiences we had in Brussels! The food was great and the service was…read moreoutstanding. Huge shoutout to Julian! He reminded us of a combination of Neil Fak (from The Bear) and Lazlow (from What We Do in the Shadows). He was coordinating the line, seating, and gave outstanding recommendations, as well as praise, when we picked our wine. We were quoted about 45 minutes to wait, as they don't take reservations. A two-top opened up inside and Julian was concerned that it would be too hot, so he made me go inside to check first. Thankfully, it was right by the open area leading to outside, so we took it and were seated in about 20 minutes, rather than 45. The place was packed the entire time we were there; its reputation certainly precedes it. Good energy and beautifully decorated with stunning art inside. Carbonades a la Biere (beef stew; 19.45 Euros) is their speciality and was delicious! So reasonably priced for the flavor and te size of the dish! After Julian mentioned that the lamb is the best dish on the menu, there was no question that I was ordering it. Jarret d'Agneau Roti (Roasted Lamb Shank; 27.35 Euros) was so very good! Full of Rosemary and so tender! As Julian was running by, I quickly asked him: "Tiramisu or Tarte Tatin?" No hesitation, he replied, "Tarte Tatin." I wasn't sure if he actually put the order in for us or not, but then it arrived at our table and it was delicious! Pear Tarte (8.65 Euros) with a side of ice cream. Not too sweet, with lovely spices in the pears. Cash only, always a line, but totally worth it!

You likely will see a line for dinner. Don't worry it does go pretty fast and likely faster than…read morewhat they may quote. The stew was fantastic! Tender meat bursting with flavor with some mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. I enjoyed the lamb as well, however a bit too much rosemary for me. Get the pear dessert. The soft and sweet pear coupled with the ice cream was one of the best desserts I've had in some time.