Bar Bouche

A pocket-sized bourgondisch bistro punching far above its Wibautstraat postcode.

The Wibautstraat used to be the street you crossed to get somewhere better. Bar Bouche is part of the correction: a tiny, warm-lit room with a big heated terrace, run by people who take 'bourgondisch' as a job description rather than a marketing word. The menu is short, seasonal and slightly show-offy in the best way, mackerel mousse on brioche, burrata under sour cherries and candied walnuts, leeks slicked with herb oil and crisped ham, a veal ribeye when you're feeling flush, with a wine list that leans French and generous. TheFork users score it a near-perfect 9.5, which for a spot this size is both remarkable and a warning: book the terrace or come early and charm your way onto a bar stool. Puddings matter here too; leave room.

Start with the mackerel mousse brioche, finish with the sticky toffee cake.

What to order

Full menu

Gepofte prei€14
Butter-soft roasted leek, almond cream, serrano crisps, the dish every review lands on.
Rendang croquettes€8
Sambal mayo, pickled cucumber; the borrel snack that outclasses bitterballen.
Veal ribeye€24
Black pepper sauce and grilled broccolini, 'perfectly prepared' is the recurring verdict.
Sticky toffee cake€9.50
Warm caramel finish; don't split it, order two.