Background
This hotel was originally opened in 1989 as the Radisson SAS and then rebranded as the Radisson Blu Brussels before becoming Grand Place, a member of the Radisson Collection. It was designed by Belgian architects Arib. The Spanish architecture firm Rafael de la Hoz undertook the multimillion-euro renovation of all public spaces.
Where is it?
On 47 Rue du Fossé aux Loups, opposite the appropriately named food hall, Wolf. If you have bags it would probably be best to avoid the short walk from Brussels Central railway station since the road is fairly steep.
What’s it like?
The hotel is quite forbidding from the outside, though the large floor-to-ceiling glass windows do give a hint of what’s in reception – namely a new, elegant, central bar and the check-in desk to the left. The ambience is particularly impressive in the evening, with the back-lit giant fashion shots on the walls of the hotel’s restaurant visible the moment you approach the doors of the hotel.
Reception has cylindrical golden desks with matching overhead lights and both Radisson Collection branding and Jin Jiang branding in Mandarin script – the Chinese owner of the brand and hospitality giant. The hotel is geared up for Chinese visitors, with Chinese signage on the sixth floor as well as the new restaurant, Shanghai Junction opening shortly. The hotel is centred around a seven-storey atrium with three glass lifts rising to the rooms, which have either external views or internal over the atrium.
Rooms
The 282 rooms, including 24 suites, are located on floors one to seven, with entry level Collection rooms being 26 sqm. Collection Superior rooms on higher floors are the same size, but with better views. Rooms are contemporary with a well thought-out design of understated luxury.
Textured silk wallpaper in neutral tones along with wood panel detailing add warmth, and marble table and desktops add luxury. Flooring is dark wood with deep pile rugs. Floor-standing mirrors are placed at a flattering angle. Brass downlighters create a restful ambience with brighter lights on the desk and by the wardrobe.
All rooms have fully-stocked minibars (when Covid restrictions are relaxed), bathrobes, tea and coffee facilities, including Nespresso machines, and good-quality hairdryers. There are plenty of plug and USB points, and a good-sized work desk with a comfortable chair; high-speed wifi and flatscreen TVs with satellite channels. Bathrooms have Radisson Collection amenities, heated windows and generous walk-in showers with both rain and power heads. Entry-level rooms don’t have an evening turndown, but come with a choice of a king, queen, or two twin beds.
Collection Premium rooms are larger (30 sqm) while the 50 Collection Executive rooms have access to the seventh floor Executive Lounge, open 1100-1900, which provides snacks, and soft and alcoholic drinks. It is a good place to work during the day if you get bored of your room.
Food and drink
The hotel has two restaurants, Eneko Basque (1200-1430; 1800-2230), which serves Basque cuisine, and Shanghai Kitchen. The design of Eneko Basque is striking, and comes into its own in the evening with giant golden lights overhead. Many of the tables are semi-circular booths with rich velour upholstery that works well with dark walls and flooring. Starters are around €15 and mains €30. The specialty is sharing dishes from the charcoal oven (beef rib for two is €80, turbot for two, €70). There is also an outstanding wine list.
Meetings
The hotel has 18 meeting rooms, all on the first floor, including a ballroom that can seat 200. There are several rooms on the ground floor that can be used for social events, including a private dining room.
Leisure
The fitness centre is located on the seventh floor. It has two rooms with both free weights and various cardiovascular machines.
Verdict
An excellent refurbishment making this one of the best hotels in Brussels.
FACT BOX
- Best for A meal at Eneko for outstanding Basque cuisine and a wide choice of wines
- Don’t miss Cocktails at the central bar
- Price Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in April started from €253 for a Collection room
- Contact Radisson Collection Hotel, Grand Place Brussels, 47 Rue du Fossé aux Loups, 1000 Brussels; +32 (0) 2 219 28 28; radissonhotels.com
