HORTENSE
Although I do love Brussels, am still objective enough to admit that it is less than perfect in some aspects. Its shortcomings involve serious issues, like traffic or lack of customer service, and less important ones (albeit crucial for us food bloggers!) such as the lack of smart cocktail bars. Hortense has come to fill out part of this gap in the best possible way.
Tucked below one of the gorgeous buildings in the Grand Sablon, you kinda have to know it’s there to find it. Spot the little grey sign, follow the scented candles along the street entrance, walk down the stairs and you enter a whole different world. The old arched cellar has been transformed into an atmospheric cocktail bar with exposed brick walls, dozens of candles, mellow music and a charming crowd. It’s warm, welcoming and very romantic indeed – perfect for a night out with a small group of friends or your significant other!
The menu includes a few cocktail suggestions by Hortense’s mixologist that change regularly and made right in front of you. If you still prefer something else, just ask and they will happily make something off the menu for you. The drinks arrive with a smile and are accompanied by freshly made popcorn from a vintage machine – just one of the details that make this place special together with the quotes on the menus and the beautiful crystal jars on the bar that sparkle in the candlelight.
Hortense is a great choice if you’re looking for a place with character. It’s by no means cheap (expect to pay around 12€ for a cocktail) but it is special – I actually always feel like I’m in a miniature of my all-time favourite speakeasy bar in NYC. If you’ve discovered any other great spots like this one, feel free to share! Brussels could use some more gems like Hortense.
| INFO |
| Address: Rue des Sablons 7, 1000 Brussels, Belgium |
| Telephone: +32 2 5144347 |
| Facebook page |
*UPDATE: Unfortunately, Hortense is now closed.*
