Gourmet food market Eataly coming to Brussels

A vast Italian food market is expected to be confirmed as the latest addition to Brussels' new-look pedestrian zone.

Eataly will occupy part of the ground and first floors of the 17,500m² former Actiris building at 65 Boulevard Anspach, in a major property deal reported to be worth €20 million.

The Brussels region acquired the building for a symbolic euro and had received 16 bids - including an application by Cohabs to turn the property into shared housing for expats, which came a close runner-up.

"We have not yet received official confirmation," said winning bidder Dick Vervoordt. "I think the Eataly concept is the only one that can really bring about a change in this area, creating a new atmosphere on the street."

The Italian high-end food and drink store launched in Turin in 2007. Since then, Eataly have opened in Munich, Stockholm, Dubai, Seoul, New York and Chicago. The Brussels store will be operated as a franchise.

According to Bruzz, the Delhaize supermarket which currently occupies the premises will remain in some form, but will be redesigned. The upper floors of the building will be occupied by shared offices and apartments.