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The Café Metropole is the bar and restaurant of the prestigious Hotel of the same name. Superbly decorated it is the last 19th century French Renaissance-style Hotel to have survived in Brussels. The magnificent terrace is heated during the winter but it’s inside that you can really experience the luxurious decor.

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The entrance of the Metropole hotel and the Cafe Metropole terrace behind it

The terrace itself from the other side

Well dressed waiters provide table service

The posh view sitting inside the Café Metropole from one corner

My choice from the six page menu arrived

Crystal chandeliers and high-ceilings are all part of the luxurious decor

Marble fireplace and bar in the back

View from the bar this time

Like most well kept secrets A l’Imaige Nostre-Dame is not easy to find and one would need to be really lucky to simply stumble into it. Located at the end of a long and narrow alleyway it is one of the oldest cafés of Brussels. Having a unique and authentic feeling to it, this pub has had the chance to retain its original decor and boats a very friendly atmosphere with its share of regulars, merrymaking students and the occasional tourist.

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Look for the A l’Imaige Nostre-Dame estaminet entrance sign

Take the alleway all the way down until you seen light again

You’ll reach the entrance of the A l’Imaige Nostre-Dame pub

View from the main room as you enter where the bar section is

The room in the back with some students having a drink

University students often come to this café and the bartender has been made their honorary Godfather with all the official gear.

View from the bar

More students arriving for some refresments

Sitting at the bar having a look at that colorful student cap