Corinthia Hotels has added to its portfolio of luxury accommodations following the opening of Corinthia Brussels. This latest opening marks the 11th hotel to fall under the management of Corinthia Hotels, a group that is expanding swiftly with future openings expected in Bucharest, Rome, Qatar, Riyad and the Maldives.
Once the Grand Hotel Astoria, an iconic Belle Époque landmark situated on the Rue Royale, Corinthia Brussels has seen a complete refurbishment and is now home to 91 rooms, 31 suites and five signature suites.
Originally commissioned by a royal decree and designed by Henri Van Dievoet, the building was originally a site for hosting esteemed guests of the king and has seen the likes of Winston Churchill and Andy Warhol grace its historic corridors.
“The reopening of Corinthia Brussels marks an exciting chapter for both our brand and the city,” said Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels. “This project isn’t just about restoring a hotel—it’s about redefining what luxury hospitality can be. By collaborating with some of Belgium’s most forward-thinking craftspeople and gastronomic minds, we’re challenging conventions and creating something truly special. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience this new era and to discover a space where heritage and innovation meet.”
Taking a total of four years to complete, the refurbishment worked on preserving key historical detailing that symbolized grandeur and sophistication, such as the ground floor and façade, while also bringing the property into the 21st century. At its center lies the impressively elegant Palm Court, which features a large stained glass skylight that has been restored under the direction of architect Francis Metzger.
The rooms and suites at Corinthia Brussels have been designed by GA Design and convey an appropriate level of opulence. Expect tones of blue and rust gold, both of which refer to the property’s unique history.
As a Corinthia hotel, it’s no surprise that this new Brussels property delivers when it comes to dining. To ensure the gastronomy is up to scratch, the hotel partnered with two Belgian chefs whose restaurants have attained Michelin stars.
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Christophe Hardiquest took the lead on the hotel’s brasserie concept, Le Petit bon bon, which aims to serve traditional Belgian dishes with a modern twist. Interiors were handled by local studio We Want More and match the cozy brasserie vibe. The kitchen is headed by Venezuelan Andrea Mesa, who brings a distinct South American touch to proceedings.
While Le Petit bon bon is pitched as a brasserie, Palais Royal by David Martin is the property’s fine dining option, offering French cuisine inspired by Japan, presented as part of either seven-, ten- or 12-course tasting menus. Note that as opposed to being a tasting menu only, any dish at Palais Royal can be ordered à la carte.
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Leading mixology at Corinthia Brussels is Hannah Van Ongevalle, who begins her first solo venture with Under the Stairs, a cocktail bar set to open in 2025.
Finally, no luxury hotel ready for 2025 is complete without its own wellness facility. Corinthia Brussels goes the extra mile by constructing this sanctuary underground as part of a newly excavated floor. Spaced out across almost 13,000 sq ft, the spa includes seven treatment rooms, a steam room, a sauna, tea room and a fitness center.