Old Boy Rue tenbosch Restaurant in Chatelain (Ixelles): our opinion!

Updated June 23, 2024 by Pierre

Located a stone's throw from Place du Châtelain, the Old Boy is a new asian restaurant which already attracts crowds despite the competition. So we opened the door of the restaurant to try it! In this article our opinion and discovery.

What is the history of the Old Boy Restaurant?

The Old Boy opened in February 2023, under the leadership of John et Xavier, two friends of Eurasian origin. Passionate about gastronomy and sharing, they wanted to create a friendly place where you can enjoy tasty little dishes inspired by Asian cuisines. The success of the Old Boy was quickly achieved, thanks to its warm setting as well as its inventive cuisine.

Did you know?

• The name of the restaurant, “Old Boy”, refers to the Korean film of the same name. John and Xavier chose this name because they appreciate the film's universe and its themes of revenge and redemption. They also wanted to create a place where you can relax and forget your worries, a bit like the main character in the film.
• The restaurant is referenced in the Gault & Millau Pop guide. The restaurant received a great review in the Gault & Millau Pop guide, which describes it as a “culinary gem”

The restaurant has quickly become an essential address for fans of Asian cuisine in Ixelles.

What is the atmosphere like inside the restaurant?

As soon as we arrived, we were charmed by the relaxed and friendly atmosphere of the place. The open kitchen overlooks the dining room, allowing guests to observe the chefs in action and soak up the tantalizing aromas.

Whether you're looking for a casual option or a fine dining experience, the Old Boy has something to offer you. You are either seated at the bar watching the chef in action, or at the table in the background.

What do you eat at Old Boy in Ixelles?

The menu consists of a selection of dishes inspired by Asian cuisines, prepared with fresh and seasonal products. You can find classics such as Bao Bun topped with braised pork, sautéed green mustard, crushed peanuts and coriander, or even noodles with beef and chili paste.

The chefs of the Old Boy offer you a succession of inventive and refined dishes, highlighting the richness and diversity of Asian cuisines. The concept of the Old Boy is original: he proposes two distinct formulas:

• At lunchtime, an a la carte menu with dishes to share between 6 and 20 euros, ideal for a gourmet break with friends or colleagues.
• In the evening, a 5-course fixed menu for 50 euros per person, for a refined and immersive culinary experience. This evening set menu is a real invitation to a culinary journey.

Vegetarian options are also available to satisfy all palates.

Each dish is an explosion of flavors and textures, and you will appreciate the careful presentation of the plates.

To accompany your meals, the Old Boy offers a selection of natural wines carefully chosen by the restaurant’s sommelier.

The service is impeccable and the atmosphere friendly.

Our verdict: we will come back

In summary, The Old Boy is an essential address for fans of Asian cuisine in Ixelles. Whether you are looking for a gourmet break at lunchtime or a gastronomic experience in the evening, you will find what you are looking for in this restaurant. The dishes are really delicious and the presentation is neat. We feel that the chefs put a lot of love into their cooking.

Advice:

• Do not hesitate to reserve your table in advance, as the restaurant is often full.
• The restaurant is quite small, so it is advisable to come in a group of maximum 4 people.
• Don't forget to taste the Bao Bun, one of the restaurant's flagship dishes!

Practical information :

• (I.e.Address: Rue de Tenbosch 110, 1050 Ixelles
• Website:
• Phone: +32 2 544 15 55
• Opening hours:
  • Lunch: Tuesday-Saturday from 12 p.m. to 14:30 p.m.
  • Dinner: Every day from 18:30 p.m.
• Reservation required for dinner