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Chocolate Religion and Antiques Sablon Marolles

Overlooked by the filigree Grand Sablon church at its top end, the other part of this posh square showcases Pierre Marcolini’s chocolate shop. Here chocolate collections are introduced every season like a fashion line, with new concepts, interiors and flavours to choose from (although you can just stick to the classic blocks of dark chocolate, each named according to the cocoa beans’ country of origin). Opposite, Wittamer’s chocolate stands for tradition. And you could while away an hour or two debating their relative merits with the locals. More durable shopping is found at the smart antique shops (crammed with art nouveau pieces) and in interesting collections of African and world art. Come at weekends when the heart of the square is transformed into an antiques market. If you are after bargains, then sidestep Grand Sablon and forget about carousing till dawn Saturday night. Rise early to catch the best finds at the Place du Jeu de Balles flea market in grungy Les Marolles district. It’s a fun walk from the Grand Sablon up the cobbled hill, via the rue Haute and rue Blaesto the market, past junky antique shops, quirky interior décor shops and studenty style. Wine and Dine Smart Sablon offers classic French dining at Lola’s (33 Place du Grand Sablon, +32 (0) 2 52 514 24 60) or sandwiches with a twist at Le Pain Quotidien (no 11). Seek out L’Idiot du Village (19 rue Notre-Seigneur, +32 (0) 2 502 5582) weekdays for romantic dining with a touch of kitsch. Party Sablon is too dressed up to let its hair down. Take a five-minute walk to Avenue Louise to find the action or stroll to Les Marrolles’ techno temple — Fuse (208 rue Blaes).

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