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I’ve rediscovered the city centre and I love it!

MAROLLES_HORECA_Rue_Place de la Chapelle_Berlin FabrikPHOTO_001

It’s been a while since I’ve been in the city centre, but thanks to my new job, I’m rediscovering Brussels and loving it! Thanks to my colleagues, I’ve quickly found my regular haunts in the centre, which are good for my day-to-day life but not so good for my wallet.

I grew up in Brussels (yes, for me Wezembeek is Brussels, since the STIB isn’t too far away 😇), and I would always come into the city centre with friends or family to have a good time at the Plaisirs d’Hiver, go to the cinema or enjoy the bars in Saint-Géry. Then I started working for a company with offices outside the city centre, so I didn’t get to go back as often… until a few months ago, that is. And wow, what a nice surprise to rediscover the city centre, with its frenetic pace and high-quality shops!

I've rediscovered... lunch spots for a tasty and enjoyable lunch break

  • NOM POW for their delicious fried cauliflower
  • JEAN-BON pour leurs bons croque-monsieurs réconfortants entre 2 réunions
  • L’INTERMEZZO, the authentic little Italian restaurant, something of an institution, since my father, who has always worked in the city, takes me there
 
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Une publication partagée par NOM POW 🐉 (@nompowbrussels)

 
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Une publication partagée par JeanBon (@jeanbon)

I've rediscovered... independent shops

Strolling through the streets of the city centre – or dashing through them between two meetings – is a great way to discover hidden treasures and meet enthusiastic shopkeepers. Here are some of my favourites:
  • LA FRUITIERE: a must before a cheese & wine evening with friends  
  • CPHAGEN and NEUF GIFT STORE : decoration shops in the Dansaert district where I wanted to do all my Christmas shopping
  • JIMMY FAIRLY: I finally found the glasses I needed, at a great price and with impeccable service.
 
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Une publication partagée par CPHAGEN (@cph.agen)

 

 
 
 
 
 
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Une publication partagée par NEUF (@neuf.gift.store)

 
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Une publication partagée par Jimmy Fairly (@jimmyfairly)

I've re-discovered... after-hours parties and the lively atmosphere of the city centre

  • CASCO: It’s my go-to place for a drink in a relaxed, musical atmosphere with friends (warning: don’t plan anything afterwards, it can go on for a while)
  • LE ROOFTOP 58: The breathtaking view from this rooftop has become one of my favourites in Brussels. A must! ! 
  • LE ROI DES BELGES: enjoy your drink in a swing rather than a chair at this venue. Head to the Roi des Belges for delicious cocktails, a great selection of beers on tap and the festive atmosphere we love at Les Halles Saint-Géry
 
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Une publication partagée par CASCO (@cascobrussels)

 
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Une publication partagée par Rooftop 58 (@58.bxl)

It’s great to get to know the local shopkeepers again. More and more shops are being opened by enthusiasts who are experts in their field, and this is reflected in the quality of their products.

Everything is close at hand, with a wide range of high-quality shops. The secret? Know where to look to avoid the crowds and tourist traps. Follow localguide’s advice and you’ll discover a whole new side to Brussels!

I’m back in the city centre again, and I love it!

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