Brussels Business City Guide: Brussels bars, cafés & nightlife
Going out in Brussels, you are spoiled for choice. Bars can be found on nearly every street, plus there are quite a few nightclubs and some splendid theatres. The historic centre and Toison d'Or area are most popular, but there’s also a lot happening on Avenue Anspach. If you’re looking to sample the local brew, Trappist, Duvel and Kwak are among the best. Be warned, however, that they are seductively strong.

Brussels nightlife reviews

Le Cirio
Rue de la Bourse 18
Centre
02-512 13 95
The king of Brussels brasseries and former hangout of Jacques Brel, located next to the Stock Exchange. The perfect place to sample local beers. Attracts a more mature crowd.

Falstaff
Rue Henri Maus 17–21
Centre
02-511 87 89
Beautiful art deco bar. Relaxing atmosphere is ideal for a beer and a chat. No loud music, just friendly folk and wide choice of beers. Try one of the Flemish cakes, too.

Zebra
Place Saint-Géry 33–35
Centre
02-511 09 01
First bar to open on this now trendy square. Excellent people-watching on the terrace, some real characters around the bar inside. Regular jazz and blues concerts.

La Fleur en Papier Doré
Rue des Alexiens 5
Centre
02-511 16 59
Cosy 16th-century bar frequented by Magritte in the 1920s. The spirit of the surrealists survives in occasional poetry readings. Beautifully decorated walls are the inspiration of any budding artist.

L'Ultime Atome
Rue St-Boniface 14
South
02-511 13 67
Very popular bar just south of the centre. Italian evening meals served with a wide range of beers. Great place for a chat, or a drink on your own.