Chez Emile Brussels
Relaxed outside bar with a view
The Guinguettes Barc are a phenomenon in Brussels every summer and my favourite is the one in Duden Park because of the gorgeous view of the Palais de Justice (in a few years you won't even be able to see the scaffolding anymore). You can 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. There are 9 different locations (all with their own personalised name and personality) located in different parks throughout Brussels.
This popular concept of these open-air bars came originally from a French white wine. In the 19th century, they started popping up on the outskirts of Paris just outside of the tax border, mainly frequented by workers who bought this cheaper form of wine: le guinguet. They were lively bars with lots of dancing and happy voices, often located around the river Seine to expand the space. Today they are making a come back in many cities, not only Paris and Brussels. I can't talk for Parisians, but the Brusseleirs are extremely happy when the Guinguettes open up (usually in May/June) to catch the first rays of sunshine with a warm coffee in their hands.
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