Ganshoren – After 43 years in Ganshoren, San Daniele, owned by Spinelli, is set to relocate to Sint-Martens-Bodegem, where it will open on November 4, 2025, offering more space and parking, alongside ambitions to regain its Michelin star, reports 24brussels.
The Italian restaurant, renowned for its traditional cuisine, will shift from its current location on Keizer Karellaan, a street undergoing redevelopment that is expected to reduce parking availability by nearly half. Owner Spinelli expressed concerns over persisting cleanliness issues in the area, which will likely worsen during construction.
Local business owners have raised alarms about the impact of the redevelopment. The Ganshoren Traders Union warns that the changes could endanger over half of the avenue’s businesses. Union Chairman David Steegen highlighted that the reduction of parking, introduction of paid parking, and increased taxes could dampen economic activity, leading to fears of diminished foot traffic.
“Without solutions, we risk becoming a commercial desert,”
Chairman David Steegen
At the new Sint-Martens-Bodegem location, which features parking, a garden, and a terrace, Spinelli was able to secure a venue after chef Thomas Locus shuttered his Brasserie Julie to concentrate on his own revamped restaurant, Agnes. Spinelli stated that Locus’s suggestion of the location proved fortuitous as he sought new premises in Flanders. Reservations for the opening night are fully booked.
“Our customers are very satisfied. So far, we haven’t received a single negative comment. 80% of our customers come from Flanders, and for Brussels residents, it’s only a 6-kilometre drive,”
San Daniele.
Beyond the relocation, Spinelli noted that the past few years were challenging, coinciding with personal struggles, including his brother’s depression and the passing of their father. However, he reported a revitalization of the team, with his brother returning to work.
“We have customers who have been loyal to us for forty years. Our first goal is to continue our story in a new location. And ultimately, we also want to earn back our star,”
he added.
San Daniele originally opened its doors in 1982 and earned its Michelin star in 2004, retaining this accolade for nearly two decades until 2023. The restaurant has built a strong reputation for its blend of Italian and Belgian fine dining.
This move follows the closure of Brasserie Julie in 2025, which allowed the premises to become available. Despite facing operational challenges in the early 2020s due to the Spinelli family’s personal difficulties, the restaurant has rebounded and is prepared for its new chapter.
