Recreating the banquet held in honour of Victor Hugo

A historic banquet in the heart of Brussels

In April 1862, Victor Hugo published one of his most celebrated novels: Les Misérables. Its success was immediate. His Belgian publisher decided to mark the publication of this historic, social and philosophical work in fitting style.

In the presence of the Mayor of Brussels, he organised a banquet in honour of this exceptional writer, whose work was deeply concerned with social justice and human dignity.

Souvenir of the banquet held for Victor Hugo · public-domain document

One hundred and fifty years later

In 2012, guests were invited to relive the atmosphere of that memorable banquet in an exceptional setting: the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries.

With the Historical Gastronomy Centre, a period menu was served in the Galerie du Roi. Readings included texts and a speech by Victor Hugo.

A distinguished guest

Florian V. Hugo, Victor Hugo’s great-great-great-grandson, attended the evening. After eight years alongside Alain Ducasse in Paris, Monaco and London, the chef was then bringing his craft to Brasserie Cognac in the heart of Manhattan, New York.