WHERE IT ALL STARTED, AND ENDS
FRIDAY MAY 17, 2024
BRASSERIE CANTILLON
Arguably the most important spontaneous-fermentation brewery in the world, Brasserie Cantillon has been producing authentic, unsweetened, unfiltered and unpasteurized lambic in its original Brussels location since 1900. The brewing family Van Roy holds a special place in the hearts of serious aficionados around the world, its classic gueuze and various fruited lambics having long set the standard for character and quality in the varied world of sour beer. A visit to Cantillon and its working museum offers both a piece of history and inspiration for modern-day artisanal brewing enthusiasts.
BRASSERIE DE L’ERMITAGE
Located just around the corner from Cantillon, nano brewery l’Ermitage is an extremely popular destination for locals and beer tourists alike. Set in a secretive courtyard in the working-class Anderlecht neighborhood, the scrappy brewpub offers an international-style craft beer draft list, great snacks, live local music and most importantly a friendly welcome, courtesy of its enthusiastic owners and dedicated team. L’Ermitage also happens to be the de facto after-hours go-to for Cantillon staff.
LES BRIGITTINES
An institution in Belgium’s capital city, Les Brigittines is the brainchild of star chef Dirk Miny. Unusually spacious for a Brussels restaurant, it offers a romantic, slightly kitschy Art Nouveau atmosphere and both a seasonal and year-round menu of traditional regional dishes. Its smartly dressed wait staff also pours excellent conventional and natural wines. Perhaps most importantly, Les Brigittines is a longtime champion of both Cantillon and De La Senne, and is the breweries’ first recommendation for group dining in their home city.
BOOZE N’ BLUES
This small, unassuming and funky bar, partly owned by De La Senne brewer Yvan de Baets, is notable for vintage Americana décor and a jukebox that pumps out classic soul, blues, and rock & roll. It’s also one of the best places to drink beer in central Brussels, thanks to a well-chosen, no-nonsense beer list that prioritizes value and quality over excess and gimmickry.
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