In the historic heart of Brussels, one of the city’s most cherished Italian restaurants is marking a special milestone. Ricotta & Parmesan, a familiar stop for pasta lovers and theatre-goers wandering Rue de l’Écuyer, is celebrating 25 years of flavour, warmth, and family tradition.
For founder Renaud Waeterloos, the anniversary is not just about longevity but a reaffirmation of passion. Trained as a sommelier and restaurateur for over four decades, Waeterloos is returning to the kitchen to reconnect with his craft.
“This 25th anniversary is an opportunity to reaffirm our core values,” he said, highlighting his ongoing commitment to authenticity and quality.
Unlike the growing wave of franchised chains across Europe’s capitals, Ricotta & Parmesan has stayed true to its family DNA. Two of Waeterloos’ sons now help run the bustling trattoria, ensuring continuity while infusing new ideas. Their teamwork keeps the restaurant’s charm alive, balancing tradition with innovation.
At the heart of this anniversary lies the restaurant’s ethos — Tradizione & Famiglia — a belief that every guest should feel at home. Two long-time team members, Filippo from Sicily and Martina from Piedmont, continue to embody this spirit, offering warmth and elegant service that regulars have come to cherish.
To commemorate the milestone, Ricotta & Parmesan has unveiled a new celebratory menu inspired by its namesake ingredients. Ricotta and parmesan shine across a series of homemade dishes prepared by Waeterloos himself, from creamy antipasti to indulgent dolci. Each dish tells a story of patience, craftsmanship, and Italian soul.
The restaurant’s rustic interiors — checkered tablecloths, terracotta tiles, and lively chatter — transport diners straight to Italy. It’s this atmosphere, coupled with honest cooking, that keeps the restaurant full of both locals and visitors. Regulars affectionately call it “la casa del cuore” — the house of the heart.
Located at Rue de l’Écuyer 31, Ricotta & Parmesan continues to stand as a testament to timeless hospitality and culinary devotion. As Brussels evolves, this 25-year-old institution remains a symbol of enduring warmth — proof that true Italian dining is as much about people as it is about pasta.
