How well do you know the European Quarter? And we're not just talking about the institutions that are the nerve centre of European policy, but also the neighbourhood's leisure addresses. You might already know that during the day you can spot dinosaurs, admire Egyptian art or brush up on your knowledge of European history, among other things, but the neighbourhood also comes alive at night! Fancy a cultural outing after work? With or without a drink or two afterwards? We list some must-visit spots:
© Atelier 210
Le Senghor
Just off place Jourdan, in the heart of the European Quarter, lies Le Senghor, Etterbeek's municipal cultural centre. This beautiful early 20th-century building was a neighbourhood cinema until 1937. Since 1988, it has been a hotspot for fans of cultural discoveries from around the world, with Africa occupying centre stage. The place was named after Senegalese poet Léopold Senghor, who attended the inauguration in person. You can regularly attend theatre, film and dance performances there. Its programming is packed with a fantastic range of concerts, primarily covering the afro-jazz, classical and world music genres.
Atelier 210
Close to Cinquantenaire Park, Atelier 210 is well worth a visit. This culturally and socially engaged venue is committed to creation, reflection and authentic cultural experience. At the helm is none other than artist Léa Drouet, known for her experimental approach and Eve Decampo. There's no shying away from taboos and everyone is welcome to reflect and make sense of the big stories of our times in a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Alternatively, you can let it all go at a concert or performance that offers a unique sensory experience. The Blackout Sessions are a hit with those who need to unwind. What could be more fun than listening to a legendary album in total darkness?
Atelier Marcel Hastir
Does the name Marcel Hastir ring a bell? He was a Belgian painter, theosopher and resistance fighter. From 1935 until his death 76 years later, he lived on rue du Commerce in Brussels' European Quarter. This stronghold of resistance seems to have eluded the ravages of time. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can still admire his canvases and easels there, while enjoying classical music or a piece of theatre. For decades, this special spot has hosted big names from the world of music. The intimate and magical atmosphere of this place brimming with history will be sure to move you!
© Marcel Hastir
Théâtre Varia
If you love the performing arts, you must visit Théâtre Varia, near place Jourdan. It has long been a fixture for (French) theatre, as well as dance, circus arts and music. Spectators rarely leave without being moved, to tears or laughter. Théâtre Varia also focuses on creative encounters between artists and audiences through lectures, workshops and guided tours. The restaurant bar is an absolute must: enjoy zero-waste vegan, vegetarian or carnivorous cuisine before or after the performances.
Piolalibri
Piolalibri soon became a cultural hotspot in the European Quarter. This hybrid venue is located between the squares district and Cinquantenaire Park, within walking distance of Schuman metro station. It is simultaneously a bookshop, an Italian cultural centre, a wine bar, a music bar hosting many live concerts (showcases) and a restaurant where they serve delicious antipasti. Expats from Italy can follow the news and latest trends from their home country and the curious can immerse themselves in the richness and beauty of Italian culture.
Jazz Station
We have to be honest, this monument to jazz is actually just outside the European Quarter; a stone's throw from the squares. But it was just too good to resist. For its location alone, Jazz Station is well worth a visit. Where else in the world can you enjoy a jazz performance in a 19th-century train station? This lively music centre is literally located on top of the tracks connecting Brussels North Station with the European Quarter. Architecturally, it is distinctive for its Flemish neo-Renaissance style with Brabant Baroque influences. Inside, things get even more interesting: in addition to exhibitions, rehearsals, sessions and lectures on jazz history, you can also attend exciting concerts from the cream of the Belgian and international jazz scene several times a week.
© Jazz Station
Fancy a drink after your show?
Need a moment to catch your breath after so many intense impressions and emotions? The evening doesn't have to end there. There are bags of places in the European Quarter to have a drink with friends or colleagues. Place Luxembourg, for instance. Here they know how to party! Expats from all four corners of Europe bring their joie de vivre and party culture here. Bars like Ginette, VesterBar, Café Luxembourg, Network Brussels and Beer Factory are the places to be. On Tuesday evenings there’s even a market.
The star of place Jean Rey is undoubtedly Le Grand Central, the impressive bar & eatery with its large terrace and a semi-industrial design aesthetic. It's yet another success story of Brussels-based cafe guru Frédéric Nicolay.
On place Jourdan, pop into Pepete et Ronron and 13 Degrés for delicious fine wines. Beers Bank offers over one hundred beers.
Lovers of traditional Irish pubs are in for a treat in the European Quarter, as The James Joyce, The Hairy Canary and The Wild Geese are open every day. Cheers!
