A la Becasse, Brussels

Tucked at the rear of a small alleyway just two blocks away from the Grand Place, this pub – touted to be one of the oldest in the city – is a proper little hidden gem. Once inside, you'll find a cozy and original 19th-century beer room with a quiet understated charm and mostly bench-style seating, where everyone sits together – though, weather permitting, you may also enjoy a small external seating area. The decoration features lots of dark wood paneling, iron chandeliers, framed photo portraits of former Belgian kings and queens and, of course, lots of charming old images of the woodcock (bécasse) which gives the pub its name.

The choice of in-house beers is pretty good – they serve the Lambic range and you can try a sampler platter of four (in either smaller or bigger sizes) or simply have one poured in a cute ceramic pitcher. Food mostly consists of traditional snacks to compliment the beers you drink, and prices are pretty good for what is a touristified area.

If you are looking for an authentic beer hall with loads of character, then head here!