La Brocante

This café is an institution in the Marolles district and the Jeu-de-Balle plaza. The café has been open for more than 20 years; the café opens its doors at 5am in the morning to welcome traders of second hand wares before they hit the streets. The place is very laid back and people in there might play chess or backgammon and some like me like to come there on a Sunday for the live music, but above all, everyone drinks beer. The atmosphere in this place is fantastic and it is also one of my favourite places in the city.

The decor is a mirror image of the neighbourhood and its professions; the place is filled with kitch. Booths of old leather welcome customers looking to revive themselves with Brussels omelettes made of potatoes, ham, black sausage, or Bruegel head (a terrine of veal and pork head). There are more than 30 artisanal beers available.

In the summer, tables and chairs are put outside in the pedestrian street around the corner. It is just wonderful to stay outside especially if you like oysters. They serve oysters outside and together with a cold glass of white wine; it is heaven on earth.

All through the day, this cafe offers a glimpse into typical Belgian life. It is usually not a place that girls like a lot due to the smoke – and it is true that you smell like you have been out all night after even a short visit to the café.