The newly opened Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels has been lauded by The Times of London as a breathtaking revival of one of the Belgian capital’s most stunning early 20th-century buildings.

Following a four-year renovation, led by Belgian architect Francis Metzger and closely monitored by heritage organisations including Urban Brussels and the Royal Commission, the Corinthia Brussels reopened in December.

According to the prestigious publication, this transformation has restored the hotel to its former grandeur, making it a jewel of European hospitality.

Built by architect Henri van Dievoet to accommodate distinguished guests of Albert I of Belgium during the 1910 Brussels International Exposition, the Corinthia Brussels was once among Europe’s most opulent hotels.

However, by the time it closed in 2007, the once-majestic building had fallen into disrepair, with its iconic stained-glass skylight shattered and leaking.

The review highlights how restoring this skylight alone took two years, requiring experts to reference black-and-white photographs to match the original design.

The Salon Elizabeth at Corinthia Brussels / What The Fox Studio

The result, as The Times puts it, is a breathtaking Palm Court lounge – "a vision of pale cream fluted columns and decorative mouldings topped with a stained-glass skylight in glowing amber, gold and turquoise."

Corinthia’s signature ‘grande boutique’ concept

Beyond the faithful restoration, The Times emphasises that the hotel embodies the signature style of its Maltese owners – Corinthia Hotels – described as “grande boutique.”

A key part of this vision is Coutume, a stylish street-front boutique that showcases Belgian craftsmanship.

The hotel features floral decorations by renowned artist Daniel Ost and a commissioned bronze stone pendant by interior designer Axel Vervoordt, reflecting a commitment to celebrating Belgian artistry.

Culinary excellence with Michelin-starred talent

Adding to the hotel’s allure are its two standout restaurants.

At Le Petit Bon Bon, Belgian chef Christophe Hardiquest has revived his acclaimed brasserie, Bon Bon, offering a menu that is "as Belgian as you can get," according to the review.

One standout dish is a rich cod à l’ostendaise with North Sea shrimp.

Meanwhile, Palais Royal, helmed by two-Michelin-starred Basque chef David Martin, serves exquisite Japanese-influenced French tasting menus in a setting of "swirling marble and chandeliers."

The Times reviewer was particularly impressed by a "delicate fish cake with nori and mentaiko," as well as a "lemon soufflé with ice cream base and bitter gel on the side." Paired with an exclusive selection of Belgian wines, these offerings set a new benchmark for fine dining in Brussels.

The review also lauds the Corinthia’s guest experience, describing the Grand Deluxe Suite as a "serene sweep of sitting room, bedroom, dressing room and capacious marble bathroom."

The upcoming signature suites, including the Old Masters and Grand Gallery penthouses, are anticipated to further elevate the hotel’s status when they debut in April.

Even the hotel’s wellness facilities received high praise. While the Sisley spa may not match the grandeur of its London counterpart, The Times calls it "generous in size and intimate in feel," featuring a 9-metre pool, a thermal area, and indulgent plant-based skincare treatments.