Located near Brussels’ Gare du Midi, Les Ateliers du Midi is a social economy restaurant that operates with a dual mission: culinary excellence and social reintegration. As an insertion enterprise accredited by the Brussels Region, it supports unqualified or low-skilled job seekers by offering them structured training in the Horeca (hotel, restaurant, and catering) sector.

Every weekday, the restaurant offers affordable, high-quality meals – daily specials, sandwiches, and desserts – all prepared with seasonal, organic, and local ingredients, and with vegetarian options available. The commitment to sustainable food practices has earned Les Ateliers the "Good Food – 2 toques" label.

But Les Ateliers is not just about good food – it’s about second chances. The staff is composed primarily of individuals in professional reintegration, each demonstrating the courage to start over. The restaurant serves as a living training space, where participants gain practical experience in kitchen work, customer service, and even catering logistics, under the supervision of dedicated tutors and professionals.

The project also engages volunteers in a 28-hour weekly mission, offering hands-on roles in the kitchen, dining area, and catering services. Volunteers may also assist with communication, administration, and propose creative ideas to animate the space. Beyond technical skills, the Ateliers foster a community spirit and raise awareness about healthy and sustainable food systems, making every visit or order not just a meal, but a civic gesture in support of social equity and local agriculture.

By aligning social inclusion with ecological responsibility and culinary passion, Les Ateliers du Midi has become a model of solidarity-based food economy. Every dish served contributes to rebuilding lives and promoting a more just and sustainable food system.