Don't eat before you go to Brouges. Leave out lunch. Boycott breakfast. Because in this little corner of Belgium, they're feeding you for a European winter with some seriously hearty fare.

With an emphasis on beer and more than 50 varieties behind the bar, lager makes an unexpected, though welcoming addition to the food menu via Honey Spiced Lambiek Beer Ribs and Twickenham Pork Sausages served with an onion & Bruin beer gravy. It wouldn't be Belgium without a traditional mussel pot, sourced from local Sandy’s Fishmongers, the largest and oldest in the Richmond area, whilst desserts include the waffle in various guises as well as a stunning White Chocolate and Orange Pot served with shortbread and crushed raspberries.

UJ loved the cavernous, underground location and cosy atmosphere spread over two open plan floors. White washed walls, polished mahogany tables and leather banquettes give it an old-school club vibe, though the spirit is somewhat livelier, helped along by really knowledgeable and helpful wait staff.

And whilst Richmond may seem far to shlep for a taste of the continent, it's actually rather refreshing to feel at once outside of the city and out of the country.