Belgo Noord

Beer, mussels and chips made this chain famous and continue to be Belgo's strengths. Many and varied dishes are produced using rope-grown mussels (the marinière was tasty), and the long list of continental beers is even more appealing. The choice of brews runs to more than 70, from blonde to amber to fruit and Trappist - there are even some specially selected for the 'connoisseur'. If beer and mussels aren't your thing, consult the menu for a decent array of hearty alternatives. The sausage with stoemp mash, beer-basted rotisserie chicken or Hoegaarden beer-battered haddock and frites reflect the prominent Belgian theme (as do the staff dressed in Trappist monks' habits). Finish your meal with a belgian waffle, a chocolate-flavoured cheesecake or a crème brûlée. However, this comfort food is served in less-than-cosy surroundings. The decor is cool and industrial, with curved walls, exposed pipes and an open kitchen. Early diners may wish to take advantage of 'Beat the Clock'; between 5pm and 6.30pm, you pay the price of the time you place your order (so £6 at 6pm): a bargain.