Joran Cidrothèque Brussels

This place is a strange but oh-so-enticing crossover between a café and a pub. It has the woody and warm, ‘come as you are’ atmosphere of a good old pub, but its cellar is full of cider and the menu is resolutely ‘Breton’ (from Brittany). 

Boasting buckwheat pancakes (filled with ham, cheese, egg, or mushroom), dry sausage, country-style pâté, and terrine, the menu even includes gluten-free options. The owner prides itself on offering authentic terroir products, be it on your plate or in your glass. There are more than 100 brands of cider to choose from, plus a few French liqueurs to complete your Tour de France of delicacies. Every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, from 4 pm until at least 7 pm, the place fills up with Irish music enthusiasts for a jam session. Every 2nd and 4th Saturday at 8 pm, a local band will perform for free. It is advisable to check their Facebook page for details as musical styles vary enormously, from heavy rock to soft folk.

In a nutshell, at Joran, you are guaranteed to spend a nice, relaxing evening in the company of locals.