Need to switch off and get away for a few hours without leaving Brussels? Head to the Sablon, a beautiful neighbourhood in the heart of Brussels where luxury meets heritage, art and history. Here are a few ideas for shops to discover, unusual places to explore and hidden galleries to visit, whether you are spending a day or more in Brussels.
Discover the Sablon and its secret spots this summer
Start the day with breakfast
To get straight into “escape mode”, treat yourself to a generous breakfast. If you are just looking for a sweet treat on the go, we recommend two high-end bakeries: Fine Sablon, on Rue des Minimes, or Fiston, on Rue Joseph Stevens. Or why not try a pastry from each? We are warning you, it will be hard to choose!
If you have a little more time, you can go for brunch at POZ’ Sablon: a cosy place with a great atmosphere, fresh products and generous portions. Everything you need for a delicious start to the day.
And finally, one address you absolutely have to try during your visit is Café Costermans. A timeless and discreet spot in the heart of the Sablon, where heritage meets the pleasure of good food. You will be dining in a former antiques shop, whether you come for brunch, a gourmet coffee break or even dinner, all in a refined atmosphere.
Endless art galleries
Did you know that the Sablon is one of the last neighbourhoods in Europe to bring together so many art galleries and antique dealers? Whether you are looking for a specific piece or simply feel like wandering around, you are very likely to fall in love with more than one place.
Start by stepping into Impasse Saint-Jacques, a tiny alleyway just off Place du Sablon. Take the time to walk all the way to the end of this dead-end street and enjoy its typical Brussels architecture. Still in the same alley, discover the artistic gems of Galerie Saint-Jacques, a modern and contemporary art gallery.
Then head back to Place du Sablon and take Rue des Minimes. There, you will find plenty of art galleries and antique shops. You will quickly spot Galerie des Minimes, an iconic name among antique dealers. If you take Rue Watteeu, you can also visit Jonathan Kugel’s Cabinet of Curiosities. Right next door, you will find Paula Raiglot’s studio. Do not hesitate to step inside any gallery that catches your eye. There are several in each street that are well worth a look.
A lunch break or dinner to round off the day
Because browsing galleries can definitely work up an appetite, here is a selection of restaurants to discover in the neighbourhood.
The Sablon: Brussels’ chocolate headquarters
With so many places to choose from, you will definitely want to come back! Another art form that is very much alive in the Sablon is chocolate. To our great delight, the neighbourhood is home to several high-quality artisanal chocolate shops. If you love chocolate, or if you want to treat someone special, taking home a box of pralines is practically a must.
Party in the Sablon? Yes, you can!
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but there are several places to enjoy a festive evening in the Sablon.
Before sharing a few addresses, remember that every Thursday evening, a gourmet market takes over the square. A great atmosphere, music, tasty products — in short, a must if you are looking for after-work drinks with colleagues or an evening out with friends.
Otherwise, we of course recommend Chez Richard for an aperitif, or the new cocktail bar Pigeon. For a bar that sometimes turns into a dancing spot, try Le Super. And if you love singing at the top of your lungs, there is of course Karaoke Bar Sablon, where you can keep the night going until the early hours.
Want to discover other neighbourhoods?
Would you like to combine your walk through the Sablon with other neighbourhoods? You are also right next to the Marolles, a popular and authentic Brussels district known for its famous flea market on Place du Jeu de Balle. There, you will also find plenty of antique dealers, vintage shops and restaurants.
If you walk down Rue Lebeau, you can reach the Saint-Jacques district via the beautiful Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés, known for being home to the Jacques Brel Foundation and several quality gourmet addresses, just a stone’s throw from Manneken Pis and the Grand-Place.
Finally, from the Sablon, you are also close to the Mont des Arts district and Rue de Namur. Head to our “Good addresses” section to discover our shop recommendations!
We wish you a wonderful day in the Sablon.
