While 4 July may just be like any other summer day to Belgians, it is an important day for the United States and American expats living around the world – including in Belgium and Brussels.
The Fourth of July symbolises the birth of the United States of America following the ratification of the Declaration of Independence on that day in 1776. In the US, it is a national holiday, marked with fireworks, barbecues and time with friends and family.
But if you are an American expat finding yourself in the land of frites instead of hot dogs to celebrate Independence Day, here are some activities and restaurants to make you feel like you are in the land of the free.
Starting off right
Those who want to start off the day in a truly American fashion can visit Le Balmoral, aka the "Balmo." The Milk Bar is known for its authentic sixties (and highly Instagrammable) décor with a Hollywood atmosphere: pink and turquoise benches, enamelled plates, pin-ups and a jukebox playing music from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s.
The menu covers a whole range of American classics: pancakes and bagels for breakfast, Tex-Mex and burgers for lunch and milkshakes to wash it all down.
Credit: Le Balmoral
A real lunch counter
Walking into Elbow Lunch Counter makes it easy to forget that you're in Brussels and not in an American films from the 70s. The place is jealously guarded by locals and neighbourhood regulars, but two-Michelin-starred chef Sang Hoon Degeimbre named it as one of his favourite spots in Brussels.
The counter only seats half a dozen people at the same time, but many clients order their sandwiches to go. While it seems that they are not doing an Independence Day special, it does not get much more American than their Philly Cheesesteak.
Credit: Elbow Lunch Counter
Don't knock the classics
While not the most original of restaurant choices, there is no denying that the Hard Rock Cafe is quintessential Americana. The lounge bar and two-story restaurant found their home at Grand Place in 2012.
While Hard Rock is not doing a specific Fourth of July event, its weekly happy hour on selected beers, house wine, single liquor pours, cocktails and shots will take place as usual this Friday evening. For a truly American experience, order the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger.
But be warned: you may just have to ask the waiter to roll you out of the restaurant when you’re finished.
Credit: Belga/Nicolas Lambert
Some Tex-Mex, maybe?
While 'tacos' may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about US classics, any Mexican person will be quick to tell you that the American hard-shell tacos have very little to do with them. But these classic Tex-Mex hard-shell tacos are exactly what's on offer at 'Chez-Wawa', along with burritos and other authentic farm-to-counter 'California-style' Mexican food.
And if this does not convince you, the fact that one of its branches is symbolically located on Rue Américaine in Ixelles should be reason enough to pass by.
Credit: Chez WaWa
American-style BBQ
For those who can bear to wait a day, the American Club of Brussels and Democrats Abroad Belgium are organising a festive American-style BBQ to celebrate Independence Day on Saturday 5 July at the David Lloyd health club in Uccle.
On the menu will be several types of grilled meat (including burgers and hot dogs), an unlimited salad bar, drinks and desserts. Reservations are required. More information can be found here.
Illustration image. Credit: Pexels
