Belgium, known as the land of beer and chocolate, is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. In Brussels, beer culture thrives, deeply embedded in the city's vibrant food, restaurant and brewery scene comprising some 20 breweries. Explore the top breweries in Brussels, discover local craft beers and experience the best restaurants and stylish hotels the city has to offer with this unforgettable beer-focused itinerary.
First Things First: Why Brussels is a Beer Lover’s Dream
Since about 2010, Brussels has experienced a beer renaissance. Breweries have mushroomed across the city, while events like Cantillon’s Zwanze Day (April) and the Belgian Beer Weekend (September) have attracted global attention. The city even unveiled Belgian Beer World in the newly renovated Stock Exchange, a symbolic move showcasing the city’s craft beer culture and upping Brussels’ beer credentials. Institutions like Moeder Lambic and Nuëtnigenough have thrived, raising Brussels’ status as the go-to city for any serious beer enthusiast.Beer Terminology: Lambics, Belgium’s Unique Beer Style
Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a newcomer, understanding terms like ‘lambics’ is essential for navigating Brussels' beer scene.Lambics are a distinctive style of beer originating from the Pajottenland region near Brussels. Typically aged in wooden barrels, these beers develop a complex character over time. What sets lambics apart is their unique brewing process, which relies on wild fermentation.
As one of the most traditional and artisanal forms of Belgian beer, lambics have garnered a dedicated following thanks to their distinct, often sour flavor profiles. Different varieties of lambics can be savoured on their own or blended with other lambics to create various styles, including gueuzes, krieks and framboise:
- Gueuze is a blend of young and aged lambics that undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in a highly carbonated, sparkling beer.
- Krieks feature cherries added during fermentation, imparting a fruity, tart flavor.
- Framboise, on the other hand, is crafted with raspberries, offering a similar refreshing profile.
The Grand-Place in Brussels City Center (© SCStock/iStock)
Southwest Brussels
Anderlecht, a municipality in Brussels, has a rich industrial heritage, a vibrant multicultural atmosphere and significant landmarks. It is home to the famous RSC Anderlecht football club, one of Belgium's most successful teams. The area also features the historic Anderlecht Abbey, a 12th-century site, and the picturesque Parc Duden, which offers great views of the city. Anderlecht is further known for its local markets, especially the lively Sunday market, and its diverse culinary scene, showcasing a mix of traditional Belgian dishes and international cuisines.Cantillon Brewery
The Van Roy family of Cantillon is among the most renowned brewers in Brussels. Beer has been brewed in this corner of Anderlecht since 1900, and today it remains one of the few artisanal lambic breweries in the Belgian capital. Cantillon's lambic, gueuze and kriek are famous worldwide, with many fans in places as far away as the United States. You can visit the brewery and its Gueuze Museum several days a week. Be sure to check the website, as the Van Roy family regularly organizes special events.
Cantillon (© Maurine Toussaint)
Brasserie de L’Ermitage
Less than 200 meters away, you'll find the Brasserie de l’Ermitage, a more recent establishment that has made a name for itself with its IPA (India Pale Ale) beers. It regularly innovates, particularly with its Cureghem Kriekland and stout beers. The brewery has a tasting room in Anderlecht, where concerts are held, as well as a shop. In Saint-Gilles, you'll find the Ermitage bar, where you can enjoy all these beers alongside a delicious sourdough pizza.La Jungle Brewery
Anderlecht is also home to a third brewery, La Jungle, located a bit further in the regenerated Petite Île neighborhood. Classic Belgian and German beers are crafted with their own unique twist. Keep an eye on their social media to stay updated on the events they occasionally organize.
La Paix (© Jean-Jacques De Neyer)
Eat: La Paix
In the cosmopolitan neighborhood of Cureghem, is Two MICHELIN Star restaurant, La Paix. Chef David Martin has transformed this brewery located across from the Anderlecht slaughterhouses into a temple of gastronomy with a somewhat eccentric twist. His cooking is a celebration of top-ranking produce, combined with a fusion of Japanese purity and French tradition, reflecting his distinct culinary personality.Sleep: Hôtel Amigo
Hop on a Villo! bike at the rental station a few steps away or walk 20 minutes towards the city center, where you’ll find Hôtel Amigo, one of our favorite spots to settle in for the night. Located right next to the city’s main square, the Grand-Place, it’s a takeover of a former prison, and is now one of the most luxurious hotels in the capital. The Renaissance building, modern comforts and artworks by René Magritte, cartoonist Hergé and others come together to create an inspiring environment.
© Hôtel Amigo
North Brussels
Northern Brussels has a mix of historical charm, green spaces like the Parc de Laeken and a burgeoning craft beer scene, including traditional breweries and innovative newcomers.Tipsy Tribe Brewery
Tipsy Tribe, located in Koekelberg, is both a brewery and a distillery for their own whisky. How about trying a Japanese-inspired IPA, a refreshing Koekelbeer or a kölsch? Tipsy Tribe also offers its facilities to those who want to craft their own gin or beer. Be sure to check out the tasting room, workshops and inquire about the available tours.Taymans Brewery
Six brothers, grandsons of the last brewer of the historic Taymans Brewery and Maltings, have revitalized this family business. They produce a variety of IPA and seasonal beers and have just launched their own lambic. A visit to this brewery in Jette is a must; on Friday evenings, they also open their shop, where you can taste their beers and purchase a few bottles.
Taymans Brewery (© Brouwerij Taymans)
Vandekelder Brewery
A 10-minute walk will take you to the Vandekelder brewery. With offerings like Saison Noire, Imperial Stout, IPA and Berliner, beer enthusiasts can't get enough. Every third Saturday of the month, you can meet the brewers during an open house and leave with a few beers in hand.La Source Beer Co. Brewery
Meanwhile, La Source Beer Co. stands out with its experimental IPAs and even “dessert” beers. Here, some beers are poured straight from the tanks, offering an ultra-fresh tasting experience. Stay for the bar food and frequent live music.La Senne Brewery
Right around the corner, La Senne has played a significant role in the revival of Brussels breweries. Its artisanal beers, such as Zinnebir and Taras Boulba, have been widely praised for their fresh bitterness. Visitors can take guided tours, head to the Zennebar for a pint, or purchase a few bottles in the shop.
© Brasserie de la Senne
Eat: French Kiss
In Jette, the Bib Gourmand French Kiss is the perfect place to dine, just a stone's throw from the breweries. The welcoming atmosphere and generous menu leave no one indifferent. With options like mushroom toast, shrimp-tomato salad, grilled flank steak and horse tenderloin, you'll have a hard time choosing. The affordable prices make the experience even more delightful, complemented by enticing menus and a great wine selection.Northeast Brussels
Northeast Brussels is known for its residential neighborhoods and green spaces, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. The area is home to the Parc du Cinquantenaire, featuring impressive arches and museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. The neighborhoods of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre are known for their upscale residential charm, parks and a variety of shops and cafés. Additionally, the area has a rich cultural diversity, with influences from various communities contributing to its local scene.Brasserie de la Mule
In Schaerbeek, Brasserie de la Mule has revitalized the local beer scene, focusing on German-inspired brews made with organic ingredients. Whether you're after a crisp helles (a type of light beer originally from Germany) or a flavorful altbier (a copper to amber beer brewed using top-fermenting yeast that undergoes a colder fermentation process typically associated with lagers), the Bar de la Mule is your go-to spot. Concerts are a regular fixture here, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Yoka Tomo (© Shannon Rowies)
Eat: Yoka Tomo
In this welcoming Bib Gourmand restaurant, the cuisine of southern Japan comes with an authentic touch. The menu offers irresistible value for money and always delivers delightful surprises. Whether it's vegetarian gyozas or eggplant in dashi, you're in for a treat.Stay: Nhow Brussels Bloom Hotel
Located next to the Botanique, this colorful boutique hotel fosters an artistic atmosphere. The rooms resemble galleries, featuring prominent artworks and all the necessary comforts. The great perk is that in the morning, you can head to the "waffle bus" in the breakfast room.
© Nhow Brussels Bloom
East Brussels
Towards the east, are European institutions, modernist architecture and green spaces. The area is home to the European Quarter, which houses key EU buildings, as well as vibrant international communities and a mix of diplomatic and business hubs.CoHop
For a truly local experience, CoHop, a cooperative brewery in the Arsenal district, brings together multiple microbreweries like Janine and Witloof under one roof. With 24 rotating taps, there’s always something new to try, paired with casual snacks like hummus and nachos. It’s also a vibrant venue for live music and comedy shows, perfect for soaking in the Brussels beer vibe.
Stirwen (© Eating.be)
Eat: Stirwen
At the end of the street, hop back on a Villo! bike to head to Stirwen. This establishment is characterized by elegance, both in its décor and on the plate. Traditionally delicious ingredients like sweetbreads, paired here with a rich sauce made from shellfish bisque and some refined vegetable garnishes, come with a modern execution that delights many Brussels food enthusiasts.Stay: Sofitel Brussels Europe
You won’t have to walk far to find your bed: the Sofitel Brussels Europe is located less than 200 meters away. With its modernist setting, this hotel, tailored for eurocrats and business travelers in a bustling district, is perfectly located for all food lovers.
© Sofitel Brussels Europe
South Brussels
This area is split between upscale residential neighborhoods, green spaces like Bois de la Cambre and the Forest de Soignes and lively cultural districts such as Saint-Gilles and Ixelles. It's a hub for art galleries, trendy cafés and stylish boutiques, as well as the iconic Avenue Louise, a major shopping and business street. The area also has a diverse, cosmopolitan vibe with a rich blend of cultural influences.Beerstorming Brewery
A diverse range of beers is brewed at Beerstorming, from IPAs to German wheat beers. You can taste them on-site after a guided tour, or you can even brew your own! Indeed, it's possible to step into the shoes of a brewer and follow all the steps of the process, choosing your own flavor accents and tasting your own beer.
© Beerstorming
L’Annexe Brewery
Close by is the brewery L’Annexe, which enjoys experimenting with seasonal beers and also brews fermented beverages. Since it doesn't often open its doors to visitors, keep an eye on its social media for updates.Eat: La Charcuterie
After a short walk, you'll enter an old butcher's shop to discover the Bib Gourmand La Charcuterie—a name that says it all. In this authentic setting, unpretentious delights are offered, meant to be shared with your dining companions. Think of pork thigh croquettes and Basque-style chipirons, paired with a nice glass of wine.Stay: JAM Hotel
A short walk away is JAM, a trendy hotel featuring a raw style of décor. While it maintains comfort, its vintage and industrial-chic atmosphere sets it apart from most luxury hotels. Guests can choose from private rooms or dormitory-style accommodations. Be sure to check out the rooftop pool—it's a must-try!
© JAM Hotel
Brussels City Center
Brussels city center is known for its historic landmarks, vibrant culture and buzzy atmosphere. At its heart is the iconic Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall. The area is also famous for its lively cafés, restaurants and chocolatiers, as well as attractions like the Manneken Pis, the Royal Galleries and the Bourse. It's a popular hub for shopping, sightseeing and experiencing the best of Belgian beer and cuisine.Brussels Beer Project
Brussels Beer Project is a responsible company that places great importance on sustainability. The Babylon beer is brewed with unsold bread, while the Slow Mo features local, organic beets and pears. These are typical examples from this ever-evolving brewery that loves to innovate. You’ll find drinking establishments on the Dansaert and Bailli streets, which also host regular events, as well as a location in Anderlecht where you can get a glimpse of the brewing process and enjoy the garden on sunny days.
© Brussels Beer Project
Brasserie Surréaliste
This former Art Nouveau banana warehouse, which now houses Brasserie Surréaliste, is worth a visit on its own, but you can also enjoy a brewery tour and occasionally musical performances. You’ll learn how Surréaliste is brewed, as well as discover the various IPAs that have made the brand famous. The house's design, created by Brussels artist Elzo Durst, is the cherry on top.Eat: Barge
Barge, a MICHELIN Star and Green Star restaurant, is just a short ride away on a Villo! bike (with stations located near the breweries and the restaurant). Grégoire Gillard works in harmony with the seasons in his vibrant corner establishment. Like the brewers, he showcases the best offerings from Brussels and its surroundings. His creativity is fueled by a close relationship with nature, and the appealing wine selection highlights the restaurant's sustainable vision.
Barge (© Maurine Toussaint)
Eat: Henri
Just a few minutes' walk away, you'll find all sorts of delightful restaurants that are truly worth visiting. At Henri, for example, the menu features a fine selection of Brussels beers, perfect for pairing with rich dishes such as steak-frites and bouchot mussels served with a pastis sauce. Finally, for classic cuisine, head to La Belle Maraîchère, where seasonal seafood and game shine like never before on the plate.Stay: Hôtel des Galeries
Walk off the meal with a leisurely stroll for the final leg of your journey to the Hôtel des Galeries, a refreshing amble through the heart of Brussels from Barge. You’ll be staying at the corner of the Royal Gallery and Rue des Bouchers, where historic charm beautifully blends with contemporary design. The hotel also features a highly recommended neighboring restaurant, the Comptoir des Galeries.
© Hôtel des Galeries
Stay: Craves
Your next hotel option is in the heart of the city, near the Grand-Place. Hotel Craves offers 59 rooms and is bedecked with deep blue colors, elegant retro décor and contemporary design harmoniously combined to create a totally chic setting. It’s an ideal, vibrant place to explore Brussels from its center.Stay: The Dominican
A few steps further along, you enter The Dominican, located just behind the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie. The décor is inspired by that of an abbey, reimagined in a 21st-century style. The bathrooms and spa are perfect for relaxing before heading out to the surrounding downtown area.
© The Dominican
Address Book
Southwest Brussels
Cantillon: rue Gheude 56, AnderlechtBrasserie de L’Ermitage: rue Lambert Crickx 56, Anderlecht
La Jungle: rue de la Petite-Île 1A, Anderlecht
North Brussels
Taymans Brouwerij: rue Van Bortonne 46, JetteVandekelder: rue Paul Michiels 52, Jette
Tipsy Tribe: chaussée de Jette 374, Koekelberg
Brasserie de la Senne: drève Anna Boch 19/21, Brussels
La Source Beer Co: rue Dieudonné Lefèvre 4, Laeken
Northeast Brussels
Brasserie de la Mule: rue Rubens 95, SchaerbeekEast Brussels
CoHop: chaussée de Wavre 950, EtterbeenSouth Brussels
Beerstorming: chaussée d'Alsemberg 75, Saint-GillesL’Annexe: rue du Metal 19, Saint-Gilles
Brussels City Center
Brussels Beer Project: rue Antoine Dansaert 188, Brussels city centerBrasserie Surréaliste: place du Nouvea-Marché-aux-Grains 23, Brussels city center
