Valentin, 21: A Young Belgian’s Dream Blossoms in Portugal
Meet Valentin — only 21 years old, but full of determination and a warm smile. Two years ago, he left Belgium with his recently retired parents for a new adventure in Portugal. Instead of simply settling in, Valentin was eager to share the flavors of his homeland with his new neighbors.
With family support (his brother Louis is always close by, and his parents are hands-on in every project), he created “O Pequeno Belga,” a little piece of Brussels in Portugal, blending Belgian authenticity with fresh Portuguese ingredients.
The café and shop are all about togetherness — from the décor to the menu, every detail is chosen by the family, for the community. Valentin’s approach is simple: welcome everyone as friends, talk about his beloved Belgium, and let customers discover traditions that comfort and connect people.
Family Values, Shared Table
What sets O Pequeno Belga apart is its genuine, homey atmosphere. Valentin handles the daily running, always ready for a chat or to suggest the day’s special. Louis brings his creativity to the website and customer experience, while their parents bring recipes, stories, and those little touches you won’t find elsewhere.
O Pequeno Belga prioritizes local, quality ingredients. From their irresistible waffles to their tarts and beers, they make a point of showcasing local Portuguese producers — proof that Belgian classics can shine with a Portuguese twist.
Sourcing Local Goodness — The Delightful COLE Ice Creams
And don’t miss the artisan COLE Ice Cream (www.cole.pt), made right in Peniche with Portuguese milk and fruit — a favorite among regulars and a perfect example of their commitment to local quality.
What does Valentin say? “Belgium is in my heart, but Portuguese ingredients make our plates sing!”
Segundo Valentin: “Portugal tem uma riqueza incrível! Usar os sabores daqui torna tudo mais autêntico e sustentável. E nada aproxima mais as pessoas do que uma mesa bem posta, recheada de bons produtos.”