While the exterior isn’t worth a second glance, once inside, you’ll find a cosy atmosphere and delicious fare. The tables are basic, and a bar dominates the main room, but your eyes will immediately be drawn to the ceiling, which is festooned with brightly coloured lamps – vibrant reds, green and blues surround the many twinkling bulbs. A back room features a bit more decoration, but once you’re settled in and have absorbed the lighting, the focus is on the food.

Depending on your mood, you can diversify with a selection of tapas, or hone in on one main dish. The tapas are a mix of Mediterranean favourites. La Boya’s hummus was a smooth and straightforward chickpea purée – low on the more bitter sesame of tehini, just the way I like it. Scampi came served in a garlic and butter preparation that begged to be lapped up with bread.

I was pleased to see a cameo of chakchuka on the specials list, a personal weakness: an egg cooked in a thick tomato and pepper sauce. Finally, we revelled in baked potato wedges topped with a generous dollop of garlic mayonnaise – perhaps more Belgian than Moroccan, but either way, not to be missed.

The main dishes take two forms: couscous or tajine (named after the pot they’re cooked in). Either way, you’ll choose from a variety of cooked meats: merguez, kofta, lamb or chicken adorned with regional delicacies, like olives or raisins. Respectable fish and vegetarian versions appear on the menu as well. The piping hot tajines arrive at your table with their conical tops, which release a beautiful fountain of steam when removed. The slightly sweet spicing and moist ingredients are a delight.

For dessert, opt for the selection of Moroccan pastries – dense combinations of nuts and dough, flavoured with honey or rosewater, that make for a terrific ending to this rich dinner. A small pot of fresh mint tea completes the picture. You’ll hardly believe you’re still in Belgium.

www.la-boya.be

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