Just a stone’s throw from Brussels’ Grand-Place, this hidden bar with a Harry Potter vibe will make you feel like you’re having a drink at the Leaky Cauldron—and all without breaking the bank

A secret labyrinth worthy of the halls of Hogwarts 

As soon as you push open the door to Goupil Le Fol, the outside world instantly fades away. Here, there are no neon lights or designer chairs—you step into a veritable visual labyrinth spanning several floors. The place is full of hidden nooks and crannies and narrow, creaky wooden staircases.

Everywhere, from floor to ceiling, objects from another era are piled high: old paintings hanging crookedly, worn velvet sofas, candles that have dripped over the years, and dusty flags. The lighting, bathed in a soft, red glow, immediately gives the impression of wandering through the secret corridors of the wizarding school or stepping through the door of the famous Three Broomsticks pub.

By the way, if you’re looking to prolong the magic, now is the perfect time to awaken the wizard within you: the highly anticipated Harry Potter: The Exhibition is finally coming to Brussels! It’s the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a double dose of enchantment. 

Handcrafted “potions” at bargain prices

You don’t need a well-stocked account at Gringotts to spend the evening here. Unlike hidden gourmet spots, Le Goupil Le Fol remains one of the most popular and affordable spots in the capital.

The house specialty? Their famous artisanal fruit wines. Served in a laid-back, casual atmosphere, you can sample potions flavored with cherry, plum, or raspberry, all while the old French pop vinyl records set the mood. It’s the perfect spot to put the world to rights with friends, snuggled on an old sofa, with the comforting feeling of being sheltered from the Muggle world.

📍22Ruede la Violette, 1000 Brussels (just a stone’s throw from Manneken-Pis).