A city known for its unique combination of modernism and legacy architecture, Brussels possesses a compelling café culture.
With over 1,500 varieties of beer, taking a crawl through some of the most treasured public houses is the way to do it like a local.
L'Archiduc
Located a stone’s throw from the Bourse, the iconic art deco L’Archiduc dates back to 1937. The beating heart of the Brussels jazz scene, this café bistro has hosted endless beloved names including Nat King Cole, Lady Gaga, Miles Davis, Jacques Brel, David Bowie, Luc Tuymans, Angèle, Eurythmics, Oasis, and Blur.
L'Archiduc bar in Brussels
Renovated in the 1980s, the interior makes a nod to David Lynchian aesthetics with an elegant Brussels twist. Seeping in historical allure, L’Archiduc’s neon sign invites you to sip a cosmopolitan with a side of live music.
Supra Bailly
An authentic cornerstone of the community, Supra Bailly offers the most affordable Jupiler in the glamorous Châtelain neighbourhood at €1.70. Founded in 1936, the bar has conserved a charmingly worn interior with original ceilings (beer stains included), tiles, a wooden bar, art nouveau stained glass windows, and leather seating that have dealt decades of good times.
Supra Bailly in Châtelain. Credit: Visit Brussels
Shoutout to the buzzing open terrace that garners crowds of locals and tourists alike, flocking the overspill of football match days. A worthwhile menu mention is owner Yuri’s grandmother's famous pasta.
La Fleur en Papier Doré
Translated into English as ‘The Gilt Paper Flower,’ this listed historical building from the 17th century is notorious for having been the wind-down spot of the surrealists and the CoBrA’s. A breeding ground of creativity, visitors gather in hopes of sparking inspiration at one of the venue’s many musical and literature themed programme events.
La Fleur en Papier Doré. Credit: Visit Brussels
Beers are on offer with an accompaniment of hearty Belgian apéritif in one of two trinket-studded rooms or small courtyard garden if the weather permits. Often missed due to the unassuming rustic exterior in the city centre, it is worth noting that this had been named "Europe's Best Café" by The European Bar Guide in 2025.
Brasserie Verschueren
Founded in 1880, Brasserie Verschueren is a hotspot in the lively Parvis de Saint-Gilles. The rescued and heritage listed neoclassical structure acted as a base for the Belgian Resistance during Nazi occupation and gathers a clientele of artists and activists.
The Brasserie Verschueren on the Parvis Saint-Gilles. Credit: Belga
Shaded from stark sunlight by the picturesque Saint-Gilles church, the bustling terrace provides the ideal space for testing one of the brasseries specially-brewed beers from Brasserie De La Senne and Brouwerij De Ranke and snacking on some crisps or a portion of cheese.
Café Au Laboureur
The beloved Saint-Catherine estaminet Au Laboureur is a traditional hub nestled amongst an assortment of quaint restaurants and concept boutiques. The bar is known for its shrimp croquettes, wide selection of beers, and laid back vibe.
Au Laboureur in Sainte-Catherine
Built in 1927, it flaunts typical Art Nouveau characteristics and has recently been declared a protected building.
