Iconic restaurateur Chez Léon has died unexpectedly

“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dear President, Mr. Rudy.” This came on the Facebook page of the famous mussels restaurant. The case remains closed on this day of mourning.

In 1888 Vanlancker’s great-grandfather, Leon Vanlancker, laid the foundations for what would later become a successful catering group with A la ville d’Anvers. What started as a modest restaurant with just five seats, has grown after 130 years into an international company with branches in Belgium, France, England and Taiwan.

Mussels with french fries

During the 1958 World Expo, the restaurant turned out to be the undisputed ambassador of mussels and chips. A reputation they cling to to this day.

When Rudi Vanlanker took over the business from his father in 1989, the company grew rapidly across national borders. Our southern neighbors know Lyon de Brussels† Vanlancker has opened around 85 branches in France in 25 years. Vanlanker explained at the time that although he later stripped those French establishments of any reference to our capital: “De Bruxelles, which no longer sells.”Newspaper†

big loss

In 2018, Vanlanker took charge of Aux Armes de Bruxelles, directly opposite Chez Léon in Beenhouwersstraat. His death means a great loss for the hospitality industry in Brussels. He has devoted his whole life to his restaurant and will leave a huge void in the hearts of his family, team and customers. You were Shi Yun’s soul, rest in peace Mister Rody,” the post continues on Facebook.

But the succession is guaranteed. The family stated on their website that Kevin Vanlanker’s son will succeed his father.