Imagine that it's a cold evening in Brussels and you are looking for some spicy Thai style shrimp soup to brave the biting cold; then step into Blue Elephant, where you're instantly transported to a world filled with lush plants and trickling fountains. Heady aromas waft through the room, which makes one wonder whether it is the incredible effect of the various spices and herbs used in the kitchen or the scent emanating from the tropical flowers.

Khun Nooror Somany Steppe could have not imagined that her marriage to Mr. Karl Steppe, a Belgian, and her passion for Thai cooking would possibly pave a pioneering way to open one of the top Thai cuisine restaurant chains in the world. Blue Elephant was started in 1980 and has been able to provide its patrons, across twelve nations in the world, consistently high standards in both quality of food and service since then.

The décor is a total sensory concept based on the best of traditional beauty, charm and courtesy synonymous with the inhabitants of Thailand. Get close to nature with various candle-lit dining areas on different levels adeptly divided by greenery while the walkways and bridges lead to water gardens stocked with rare fish. A sense of déjà vu engulfs diners as they reminisce about their previous al fresco meal. 

The kitchen works within the Thai lexicon with starters such as chicken satay served with cucumber and peanut sauce and the exquisite and rare white crab served crispy and fragrant with garlic on a bed of crunchy green papaya. The delicious dim sum parcel of minced pork, shrimp and crab meat is steamed in a bamboo basket and served accompanied by soy sauce.

Main courses feature the spicy and popular Thai delicacy of grilled beef seasoned with mint, lemon and chilli or green chicken curry flavoured with coconut milk and egg dwarfs. Those craving for fish can try the assorted fiery seafood platter, which warms the heart as much as it does the palate, while the bouquet of sautéed scampi accompanied with asparagus in an aromatic oyster sauce can provide a gentler experience for the taste buds.

Save space for some exotic fruit salad, jasmine pie or the tropical rambutan filled with pineapple. Ever wondered what could be the secret behind the Blue Elephant name? Blue is the colour of the flag of Thailand, the elephant is their national animal and the sight of a blue elephant will remain engraved in one's memory and so will the experience at this beautifully ornate restaurant.