L’Archiduc

L'Archiduc is one of the most atmospheric bars in Brussels. It was founded in 1937 and is an Art Deco landmark, and over the decades it has been a haunt of artists, writers and musicians. It sits at the start of the Rue Antoine Dansaert, close to the Bourse, and it is the kind of place where an early drink can easily turn into a long night.

The Art Deco interior is the first thing you notice and makes it feel like stepping back into the 1930s. The drinks list is built around cocktails, from timeless classics to more inventive creations, and the bar staff mix them with care.

Music is central to its identity. Every weekend, L'Archiduc hosts jazz concerts in the late afternoon: on Saturdays, Jazz After Shopping runs from 17:00 to 19:00, and on Sundays, Round About Five runs at the same time. These sessions are a much-loved Brussels tradition and a perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.

The bar suits couples, jazz lovers and anyone who enjoys a well-made cocktail in an elegant, slightly old-fashioned setting. It is more about conversation and music than dancing, and it works equally well for a single drink before dinner or a long evening listening to the band. Prices are higher than in a traditional beer café, reflecting the cocktails and the setting.

According to the official website, L'Archiduc is open every day from 16:00 to 05:00, closing only on Christmas Eve. Arrive early for the weekend concerts if you want a seat, as they are popular.

The Rue Antoine Dansaert is a short walk from the Bourse premetro stop and from the Grand-Place. The fashion boutiques of the Dansaert district, the bars of Saint-Géry and the restaurants of Sainte-Catherine are all nearby, so L'Archiduc makes an elegant first or last stop on a night out. If you are unsure what to order, tell the bar staff which flavours you enjoy and let them suggest a cocktail. Arriving in the early evening gives you the best chance of a comfortable seat, and a quieter atmosphere for conversation before the late crowd arrives.