History

It was in 1986 that Frieda and Khaled Zoughlami embarked on the adventure of taking over the former “Jardin des Marolles” restaurant to open up “Les Petits Oignons” in a little street of the Marolles district in central Brussels. At the beginning, it was good, simple fare ranging from Spare ribs and shrimp croquettes to classic steak and chips. The cooking evolved over the years to become increasingly refined, achieving gourmet status with the last chef hired at venue coming straight from a starred Italian restaurant.

Right from the beginning, quality and freshness of products were the top concerns of the owners, just like service and reception. The menus featured French classics, though always with a Mediterranean edge, in keeping with the boss’s origins. “Les Petits Oignons” had a growing success and became a real must in town.

However, after 20 years in the area, the Zoughlamis decided to ease off the pace and hand over the business to a French couple, who unfortunately was unable to hold out.

In 2011 the corner restaurant in the Rue de la Régence came up on the market. The pull was irresistible and Khaled, assisted by his daughter Rym, reopened his restaurant, giving “Les Petits Oignons” a new lease of life in front of the Music Conservatory in a splendid, sunny house. The place has been redecorated with a timeless contemporary feel.

The cooking is in the same style as in the Notre-Seigneur Street, with a “French Brasserie” touch this time. In winter, delicious Sauerkraut is on offer while in summer, mussels in casserole are back on the menu. It is with pleasure that the new venue welcomes back his customers of old – with a six-year gap – while becoming acquainted with new customers from the area or elsewhere.