Bars and estaminets (traditional small cafés)

Hidden behind the imposing Opera de La Monnaie, The Dominican invites you to its sleek and refined bar. There's always a slight feeling of being on holiday when you sit in a hotel bar. Add to that the softness of the velvet armchairs and sofas, the plushness of the carpet on the floor and the open fire that welcomes you at the entrance, and the combination is perfect. All that's left to do is order!

Rue Léopold 9, 1000 Brussels

At Moeder Lambic, you won't find the classic mass-market beers, but a selection of craft beers and microbrewery gems. The waiters are very helpful and will help you discover some surprising beers! Two locations for the price of one: the original on rue de Savoie in Saint-Gilles and the second, established in the centre, on place Fontainas in 2009.

Rue de Savoie 68, 1060 Saint-Gilles
Place Fontainas 8, 1000 Bruxelles

Just across from the Manneken-Pis , you'll find the Poechenellekelder, a genuine medieval estaminet, perfect for a drink with friends. Period wood panelling, hanging puppets and cosy corners create a decor that's as unique as it is welcoming. In the past, the building was a meeting place for many guilds and all kinds of conspirators. In other words, when you enter this unique bar, you'll be immersed in the thousand-year-old history of Brussels!

Rue du Chêne 5, 1000 Brussels

A neighbourhood bistro featuring Art Nouveau decor located next to the former stock Exchange, Cirio is a genuine period cafe where you can imagine meeting Hercule Poirot the famous detective, while sipping your “half en half” (a 50-50 mix of sparkling wine and white wine), the house speciality.

Rue de la Bourse 18, 1000 Brussels

Just a stone's throw from Flagey, nestled in the very narrow corner formed by rue Lesbroussart and rue de Hennin, Le Petit Canon exudes a cosy atmosphere almost like home. This super cute place is both a wine shop and bar with a retro decor. The atmosphere is very intimate, whether you are in a group or a couple. The wines are natural and come from small producers. They can be accompanied by small dishes, appetisers or other delicacies to nibble. It feels so good that you may find it hard to leave.

Rue Lesbroussart 91, 1050 Ixelles

Classy, timeless, Art Deco, a place unmistakeably from another time. If you are looking for quiet, avoid concert evenings. But the calm atmosphere, the small tables upstairs, the friendliness of the staff and the history that inhabits the place are all assets that make L’Archiduc, designed by architect Franz Van Ruyskensvelde, a perfect place to warm up and take refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located at the entrance of the fashionable rue Dansaert, you can enjoy cocktails, beers, soft drinks and various drinks for two, with your partner or with friends.

Rue Antoine Dansaert 6, 1000 Brussels

Wood, exposed bricks and a neighbourhood café atmosphere that is as warm for the neighbours as it is for those who come from further afield. Chez mon ex is a carefully selected range of beers, especially on tap, juices and other home-made organic soft drinks. And "Mon Ex" has a big heart because when you buy a drink, part of the money is donated to one of 3 proposed associations (you choose which one). A perfect way to warm the heart.

Rue de Roumanie 2, 1060 Saint-Gilles

A neighbourhood jewel. A typical Brussels location, appreciated in the summer for its generous terrace, but also perfect when winter returns. Warm and inviting, it offers an extensive menu of natural wines and locally brewed beers. It’s also worth noting that the coffee they serve, OR, is roasted in Belgium. For food lovers, the menu offers brunch and a cuisine which is local and sustainable, awarded the Good Food label and served in deliciously vintage crockery. The atmosphere is just as suitable for workaholics who can work there with their computer and a little coffee, as it is for groups of friends who enjoy gargantuan Sunday brunches. Warm and mixed, just like Saint-Gilles.

Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles

A chic vibe and subdued lighting... The Fox Den cocktail bar has what it takes to warm up bodies, minds... and moods. Spirits abound with more than 200 products, classic or signature cocktails on a regularly changing menu, always with a local and seasonal character. A den-like speakeasy that will take you on a journey around the world.

Rue Josse Impens 2, 1030 Schaerbeek