If you need a break from the Brussels' buzz, the Centre Tour à Plomb or Hageltoren in Dutch is the perfect cultural oasis to visit. You can find it in an old lead production and storage facility (like the name indicates) and is located right next to the canal that leads to Charleroi for easy transport of materials. In the early 2000s, it was transformed into a cultural center and organizes a series of activities year-round from feminist conferences, to cultural exhibitions. Check out their upcoming events before you go, it is very local, so most of it takes place in French.
The bar downstairs can seem a little dungeon-y, but rest assured, they have good hot and cold drinks and it's the perfect place to relax on a cold and rainy day. Admire the industrial architecture and the large cartoon street art at the entrance. Sit down in the small but comfy garden out front or walk through the many rooms with activities going on. Parents with kids, couples, groups of friends, everyone has their pick at the Tour à Plombe! The best part is, unless there's a specific event that requires entrance, normally the center is free of charge, you just have to pay for your drinks.
Find your way with 294 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Rambo" in Brussels will make you feel like you're in LA. Loud music, an open kitchen and three amazing types of burgers!
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"Tero" in Brussels is so much more than a restaurant - it's a philosophy. It offers tasty, natural cuisine that follows the seasons!
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"Certo" in Brussels is a tiny Italian restaurant on a corner just behind Place Saint Boniface and one of my favorites. Federico Mazzoni is the perfect host!
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"Les Petits Bouchons" is a typical Brussels bistro with a lot of wood, some mirrors and old-skool lighting. Zwanzers love it!
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"Belga & Co" in Brussels is one of the city's great coffee places. Everything made in-house, friendly service, big window, no frills - just good coffee.
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Come at any point of the day and have a fresh drink, a burger, salad or chill and let your kids/dogs run in the park while you chat with your friends.
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Even though it's a little out of the route for most, Glacier Zizi is definitely worth the detour! Ice cream, waffles, crêpes, smoothies... Your pick!
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A simple but still refined style characterizes this café, which at night becomes a warm wine bar with small plates to share.
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I haven't yet been able to identify all the villages/churches marked on the small stone wall but I'm sure I will at some point!
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The Perché rooftop bar is on top of the JAM hotel, which is why not many people wander up here, but it's so worth it! It has a great view and comfy chairs.
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With an extravagant vintage decore, the bar takes its name from Queen Fabiola, a Spanish noblewoman who was a very beloved Queen consort of the Belgians.
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294 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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