The historic Brussels pub Monk is due to reopen under a new name at the end of January 2024 as Billie, and will serve beer and pasta.
In May of this year, the well-loved Brussels establishment closed down following the expiration of its lease, as well as a dispute with the building owner and independent drinks wholesaler, Horeca Logistic Services (HLS), according to HLS.
The centrally located pub will be known as Billie, a name linked to Holiday, Jean, Eilish "and so many more", say the managers. They add that the ethos will remain one of inclusion, inviting patrons to come as they are and become part of Brussels.
The three new managers, Brussels natives Steven De Visscher, Leentje Bruyninckx, and Dries Heyman, aim to retain the venue’s local charm. HLS has expressed its satisfaction with the new plan. "This establishment is an institution," confirm the new managers. They pledge to continue the legacy of the iconic venue despite its recent struggles.
Leentje Bruyninckx has ample experience with pub management. Brussels locals may recognise her as part-owner of another popular pub, Roskam, located just a stone’s throw from the former Monk. "Roskam remains my baby. I was once a bartender at the original Monk, and now I’m joining the new bar team as a bonus parent," says Bruyninckx.
Dries Heyman, a communications studies graduate, acknowledges the transition to the new name may take time. "Of course we wanted to keep the Monk name, which has always been tied to this iconic pub," notes Heyman. "However, the previous owner decided differently. This gives us the opportunity to start afresh, with the same iconic pub under a new name."
