We love Brussels’ welcoming café-libraries. Their wooden shelves, their selection of books, the fumes of caffeine and the sweet smell of pastries… What could be more comforting? Here’s our selection of the best cafés-librairies in Brussels.
1. Belga & Co Bailli
Belga & Co, proudly established in Antwerp but also in Brussels, rue Ernest Solvay and rue Bailli, offers in the latter a short selection of (rather old) books to read facing the lights of its pleasant inner courtyard.
☕What toorder? A flatwhite
📍Address: Rue du Bailli 7A, 1000 Brussels
⏰ Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat & Sun 9am-6pm.
2. Le Millefeuille
Far from the subdued, almost obscure atmosphere of some café-libraries, Le Millefeuille has opted for a bright atmosphere, and it pays off. The selection of books is rich and varied, and the place is warm and welcoming. The café also offers a calendar of literary events, with writing workshops or literary apéros!
☕What toorder? A matcha latte with a brownie
📍Address: Rue Leon Cuissez 38A, 1050 Ixelles
⏰Hours: Tue-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat 10am-5pm (closed Sun and Mon)
3. Librairie Jaune
The café-library Jaune, in Jette, is a real mix of styles, from retro to modern, industrial and plant-based. It has a very friendly, almost family atmosphere; its selection of albums and comics is perfect for those interested!
☕What toorder? Hot tea
📍Address: Rue Léopold I 499, 1090 Brussels
⏰Hours: Daily 10:30-18:30 (closed Mon)
4. Cook & Book
Cook & Book offers a strong concept combining cooking and reading. We fall in love with its long wooden bookcase and ladders, so typical of London bookshops.
☕ What toorder? A marshmallow hot chocolate
📍Address: Place du Temps Libre 1, 1200 Brussels.
⏰Hours: Daily from 10am to 10pm.
5. Watermarks
Did you know you could sip a quiet coffee inside the Filigranes bookshop in Brussels? This behemoth of Brussels bookshops offers a friendly coffee corner where you can sip between book purchases.
☕What toorder? An espresso
📍Address: Av. des Arts 39, 1040 Brussels
⏰ Opening hours: Tue-Sun 10am-7pm (closed Mon)