Brussels terrace culture is real — but the best spots aren't always the obvious ones. Here are ten outdoor settings worth seeking out when the temperature cooperates.
- Le Jardin du Pesage (Chaussée de la Hulpe, Boitsfort) — inside the Hippodrome de Boitsfort, surrounded by listed buildings and coloured bell tower. Vast green terrace, slightly out of the way, absolutely worth it.
- Le Flore (Avenue de Flore, Bois de la Cambre) — nested in the forest, chic atmosphere, cocktails and local organic cuisine. One of the most atmospheric settings in Brussels.
- 52 and the Secret Garden (Chaussée de Vleurgat, Ixelles) — genuinely secretive, with a charming garden courtyard, Italian-influenced menu, vintage decor.
- Baratines (Rue des Minimes, Centre) — hidden terrace with greenery, upgraded sandwiches on organic sourdough. A brunch favourite.
- Great Market (Chaussée de Louvain, Schaerbeek) — Mediterranean open kitchen near Place Meiser, fresh juices, Syrian and Lebanese dishes, pizzas.
- Wokr 17 (Rue du Berger, Ixelles) — a multi-purpose space: restaurant, wine cellar, co-working. Large indoor-outdoor terrace for brunch, afterwork, and tapas.
- The Bank (Rue du Bailli, Ixelles) — former bank transformed into a resto-bar, gangster-movie decor with safety deposit boxes and vault doors. Unusual.
- Chyl (Rue de Belle-Vue, near Abbaye de la Cambre) — giant bay window, jagged wooden floors, retro-modern mix. Popular Sunday brunch spot.
- Racines (Chaussée d'Ixelles) — beautiful garden terrace near the Étangs d'Ixelles, deckchairs, good wine list.
- Albert Summer (Rue du Musée, Mont des Arts) — over 1000m² of outdoor space with panoramic city views. Now permanent after starting as a pop-up.
The best Brussels terraces tend to reward exploration — they're not always on the main squares. A bicycle and a willingness to go slightly off the usual route will serve you well.
