Sidestreet Travel strives to showcase a slower, more immersive way to travel. The goal is to provide tips and recommendations that showcase the best local offerings of a place with local, independent, and unique experiences at the core. Travel is an exceptional opportunity to explore, learn, and expand your perspective.
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Lisbon by the Sidestreets: Cafés, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Lisbon welcomed me with its familiar warmth and vibrancy. I arrived in November for Web Summit, a refreshing change from Amsterdam’s constant rain to Lisbon’s sunny 20-degree charm. Landing on a Sunday, I had a rare, leisurely day to explore before the conference buzz. The city’s unique blend of history and modernity was immediately apparent, from the cobblestone streets to the vibrant street art.
The morning unfolded at the bustling Baixa Market in the central plaza, where stalls brimmed with trinkets, souvenirs, and the hum of local chatter. Although geared to tourists, this market had a beautiful selection of locally made products. I recharged with a velvety espresso and an assortment of pastries at the National Cafetaria, then wandered into a narrow sidestreet café perched high above the city, savouring a glass (or two) of Portuguese wine. The day ended with a feast—a seafood platter served in a tiny family-run restaurant tucked into an unassuming corner, proof that Lisbon’s true magic hides in its sidestreets.
Typografia 
Cataplana 
Confeitaria Nacional 
Lisbon by the Glass 
Fabrica Coffee Roasters Even during the whirlwind of conference days, the city left room for indulgence. Mornings began with aromatic locally roasted coffee, while evenings transformed into a sensory journey of Portuguese and international flavours. And somewhere between it all, I even managed a workout—because who says you can’t mix a bit of discipline with indulgence?
Here are my top spots to eat and drink in Lisbon:
Speciality Coffee
Hello Kristof – Nestled on a charming sidestreet in the Bica neighbourhood, Hello Kristof’s pastel pink facade feels like an open invitation. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee and warm pastries draws you in. This cozy café doubles as a zine-lover’s paradise, with eclectic magazines to thumb through while savouring their signature breakfast dishes. Don’t miss the homemade granola, a local favourite that tastes as good as it looks. Bonus tip: a second location in Alfama is equally delightful.
Magazine selection at Hello Kristof 
Homemade granola from Hello Kristof Fabrica Coffee Roasters—With five locations across the city, Fabrica Coffee Roasters ensures you’re never far from an exceptional cup of coffee. During the conference, I made their spot near the Moorish Quarter my daily breakfast stop, indulging in freshly baked bread and buttery pastries. Their dedication to roasting their beans ensures every cup is rich and flavourful. For a unique experience, visit their converted van café near the National History Museum—an adorable alternative to a traditional cafe.
The Coffee: Where Brazilian coffee meets Japanese minimalism, The Coffee stands out as a unique concept café. The design is simple yet inviting, blending clean lines with warm wooden tones. But the true highlight is the coffee—meticulously prepared and bursting with flavour. Of their many locations, my favourite is on Rua de S. Paulo, a charming spot atop a few hundred steps. Trust me, the climb is worth it.
R. dos Douradores Location 
R. de S. Paulo Location Restaurants & Bars
Sant’ Avo—On the brink of hunger, I stumbled upon Sant’ Avo, and it felt like walking into a warm embrace. This homey restaurant exudes nostalgia, with candlelit tables, family photos on the walls, and fresh flowers casually placed as if by a loving grandmother. The menu celebrates Portuguese home cooking—simple, hearty, and soul-satisfying. Eating here felt like being invited to dinner at someone’s family table.
Family-style dining at Sant’Avo Rosamar – Chic yet inviting, Rosamar redefines modern Portuguese seafood. Its stylish interior—dark wood accents, vibrant murals, and lush greenery—sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The menu takes a contemporary twist on traditional dishes, pairing fresh, local ingredients with creative presentations. It’s a luxurious, approachable meal, perfect for a memorable evening.
Fish platter at Rosamar 
Lush interios 
Starter selection Leonetta: Leonetta is a delightful Italian oasis in Lisbon. Its lush, romantic interior and laid-back fine dining vibe make it the perfect place to linger over a meal. Start with a classic Italian cocktail and share a few antipasti plates before diving into the hearty, soul-warming main dishes. Sharing is key here—the more dishes you try, the better. This unexpected gem quickly became one of my favourite finds in the city.
Chefs at work 
Anti-pasti at Leonetta 
Homemade pasta O Fernandinho – Tucked away down a sidestreet in Bairro Alto, O Fernandinho is small but immense in character. This unassuming gem serves an excellent selection of local fish and meat dishes paired with some of Portugal’s finest wines. For a truly authentic dining experience, detour here—but bring your patience, as this cozy spot often has a wait that’s well worth it.
Traditional Portuguese seafood platter at O Fernandinho. Lisbon by the Glass – Perched on a classic Lisbon staircase, this cozy wine shop offers an intimate escape for oenophiles. Their selection of Portuguese wines pairs beautifully with small snacks, making it the perfect spot to unwind. Time your visit for sunset, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking terrace views that elevate the entire experience.
Bloco— Bloco is a treasure for wine lovers and music enthusiasts alike. This natural wine bar and listening lounge is a haven for those who want to unwind with a glass of exceptional natural wine. Their ever-changing wine list guarantees surprises, and the friendly staff are happy to guide you. Add small bites, cozy vibes, and a soundtrack of eclectic tunes, and you’ve got the perfect pre-dinner spot—or a place to enjoy the moment.
Natural orange wine at Bloco 
Modern interiors of Bloco Sights & Shopping
Miradouro se São Pedro de Alcântara – This spectacular vantage point offers sweeping views of Lisbon, where terracotta rooftops meet the endless blue of the sky. A small café kiosk serves wine, coffee, and beer, making it the perfect spot to sip and soak in the scene. It was here, perched on a sunlit bench, that I first felt the rhythm of Lisbon: a city that invites you to relax, slow down, and savour each moment. This spot is a favourite among locals and tourists alike for its stunning views and relaxed atmosphere.
Carmo Convent – The Carmo Convent is a striking blend of history and tranquility. This archeological marvel offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich past and a serene escape. It’s an ideal place to pause with a glass of wine, watch the ebb and flow of tourists and locals, and let the gentle strum of street musicians transport you to another time.
Praça do Comércio – This grand riverside plaza is the heart of Lisbon, where locals and tourists gather to soak in its vibrant energy. Framed by stately yellow buildings and the shimmering Tagus River, it’s a place that feels alive at any time of year. During the holidays, the square transforms into a festive wonderland, adorned with dazzling lights and ornaments that cast a warm glow on the cobblestones. Vendors fill the air with the inviting aroma of roasted chestnuts, perfect for snacking as you sip a glass of local wine. As the sun dips below the horizon, a gentle breeze carries the scent of the river, and the plaza offers a front-row seat to one of Lisbon’s most breathtaking sunsets—a moment to savour and remember.
As de Espadas Vintage—If you’re searching for authentic vintage treasures, As de Espadas is your go-to boutique. From quirky garments to unique home goods, their carefully curated selection makes for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. With two locations just 10 minutes apart, you’ll have double the chance to find a perfect piece that tells its own story.
Calçada do Carmo Location 
Rua da Conceição Location Typografia—For t-shirt enthusiasts and lovers of unique, locally made products, Typografia is a must-visit. This creative hub was born from Lisbon’s vibrant design culture and brought to life by a collective of local artists and makers. Each t-shirt here is more than just apparel—it’s a wearable piece of Lisbon’s artistic spirit, with designs that capture the city’s energy, charm, and individuality. Whether hunting for a standout souvenir or adding to your collection of handmade finds, Typografia offers a perfect blend of style, craftsmanship, and authenticity.
Baixa Market—Nestled in the heart of Lisbon, the Baixa Market offers a wonderful selection of handmade treasures, from colourful ceramics (a must-buy!), textiles, trinkets for the home, jewelry, and vintage clothes. Many vendors proudly carry on the family legacy, passing down family businesses through generations—a testament to Lisbon’s artisanal spirit. Supporting local artisans here is not just a choice; it’s a way to connect with the city’s culture. After browsing the vibrant market, take a well-deserved break at the nearby Confeitaria Nacional, where an assortment of Portuguese pastries and treats await to cap off your visit.
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A Visual Journey through the Venice 2024 Biennale
What is the Biennale?
The Venice Biennale is a cultural institution that is over 130 years old. The first international art exhibition was held in 1985. Music, cinema, and theatre were later added in the 1930s. Architecture first appeared in 1990, followed by dance in 1999. The Biennale offers an exciting opportunity to experience art organized around a central theme that provides direction and guidance for curating national pavilions and various exhibitions in the show. Every iteration, a new curator is chosen to bring a fresh perspective, experience, and vision to the art exhibition. For the 60th edition, the theme is Foreigners Everywhere, curated by Brazilian curator Adriano Pendrosa.
When is the Biennale?
You can visit until November 24th!
Arsenale Exhibition Space
And here’s a selection of my favourite pieces from the Arsenale Exhibition. Many artists were of Latin American descent or European diaspora living abroad. It was also the first time many of these artists were featured in the Biennale and many years after the pieces were created, which I found interesting. The range of styles, formats, and expressions was incredible to see. I also found the reinterpretation of the classical Western European style by Latin American artists super interesting.
Giardini Della Biennale
The Giardini is where you will find the different country pavilions and their interpretation of the Biennale’s theme. What an incredible selection of artists and creative minds coming together.
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A weekend getaway in Prague
Prague often conjures up romantic and fantastical images, with the iconic Charles Bridge, lavish castles, and impeccably composed Old Town. And rightly so, Prague has served as a cultural, political, and economic hub over thousands of years and was an important city for several Holy Roman Emperors. If you’re an architecture buff, you will find several architectural types (Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque) throughout. It’s like the city was stuck in time, perfectly preserved, while the surroundings slowly changed with time.
Astronomical Clock 
Baroque Architecture 
Malá Strana One of the other things that really stood out to me about Prague is its deep-seated cultural history. References to Franz Kafka are everywhere; a writer who left an incredible mark on the literary world, the city of Prague, and its history. I also discovered an astonishing array of contemporary artists, and the most unexpected discovery was František Kupka (another FK). His work was stunning for its time. Works that felt like they had been made twenty or thirty years ago. It left me wanting to dig deeper into this artistic history.
It’s the perfect weekend or long weekend getaway, where you can mix eating, drinking, art, city walks, sightseeing, and spas all in one. The traditional Czech food is hearty and filling and can be easily washed down with a pint of ice-cold Pilsner (or absinthe if you’re feeling bold). Indeed, it is a delight. But the city also has a beautiful assortment of budding entrepreneurs making a mark with their visions of a modern Prague. This city was a delight, either on its own or as a stop-over to explore the rest of Czechia.
Lennon Wall 
Traditional Absinthe Bar 
Classic Czech Pilsner 
Walking the streets of Old Town
My trip coincided with a wedding, so I had less than three days to explore the city, but this was still a fair amount of time to see the main iconic monuments, buildings, and public spaces. The city is highly walkable, but it’s advisable to break it up into prominent neighbourhoods so you can give yourself a chance to explore the iconic landmarks thoroughly. Some spots I found (Bohemia, Alma Wines and Lucerne Cafe) resulted from wandering on the side streets with only the general direction to guide me. If you are fit and enjoy walking, I recommend walking. However, you can also use the extensive and excellent public transit system, which is incredibly affordable.
Where to Eat & Drink
When it comes to eating and drinking in Prague, you might conjure up a crystal-clear image of cold Pilsner Urquell in the iconic beer mug next to pork knuckles, venison, and a delightful assortment of sweet pastries. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the diverse culinary scene in Prague. The variety of Czech cuisine, the contemporary spin on Czech classics, and international options (Mexican, Vietnamese, French, and much more) were a delightful revelation. Here is a list of the restaurants to consider when planning your trip.
Restaurants & Bars
Czech Dumplings @ Parlament 
Czech Desserts @ Parlament 
Spritz @ Lucerna 
Gelato @ Old Town 
Vinohradsky Parlament 
Vegan Casear @ Vegan’s 
Standard Cafe 
Mondieu
Vinohradsky Parlament—This is a Czech staple with expats and locals alike. This restaurant is not only delicious and cozy but also surprisingly affordable. It’s also great for groups. Expect local Czech food like deer, dumplings (an assortment), seasonal offerings (like the asparagus soup) and Czech beer; if you’re starving, the all-you-can-eat dumplings with deer is a good choice. Top off your dinner with a limon digestif and a dessert.
Vegan’s Prague—The city has a fair amount of vegan options (truly vegan), but this spot also serves up a fantastic roof-top terrace, a delightful wine selection, and top-notch vegan food. I took the vegan Caesar salad, and you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference. I also love the frizzing.
Bihn Bo Vietnamese—This restaurant is a true hidden gem, a delightful hole-in-the-wall. It is a delightfully cheap and cheerful place for Vietnamese food. Whatever you choose, start with the rice wrap rolls. The portions are ample, so go hungry and be ready to order a lot.
Tek’ila Tek’ila— Although I am skeptical of Mexican food outside of Mexico, I desperately needed a break from traditional Czech food. This spot is suitable for groups; they have a nice happy hour and often have live music.
Lucerna Cafe Bar— Cafe by day, bar by night. This cafe is perfect for an afternoon spritz and people-watching. Even better, it’s a cafe by day and a bar by night. The modern yet cozy ambiance makes it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Standard Café —This little hole-in-the-wall cafe/bar is charming. The interiors are worn, wooden, and cozy, but on a sunny day, the terrace is fantastic. Stop by for coffee, wine, beer, and cocktails and enjoy the eclectic people-watching around you.
Coffee Scene in Prague
Coffee is one of my favourite things, and I love exploring the coffee scene when I travel to new cities. Prague’s cafes did not disappoint. In my quest for great coffee, I found some excellent spots that delivered superb coffee, customer service, and general vibes. I also recommend picking up beans from Version or Miner’s Coffee.
Cappucino @ Version 
Interior of Version 
Miner’s Coffee @ Old Town 
Elias Cafe 
Miner’s Coffee @ Charles Bridge 
Cold Brew @ Miner’s Charles Bridge
Version Coffee — A minimalist, hip coffee bar offering fantastic coffee and food. Expect interesting roasts from Honduras, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Colombia, and Peru. They provide a great range of processing methods, so ask for a filter and get cozy in the cafe. They also have a delicious assortment of snacks and breakfast and lunch foods. Enjoy!
The Miners Coffee Charles Bar—This another fantastic spot for coffee in Prague. There are multiple locations around the city. The vibe at the Charles Bridge is cozy and peaceful. It’s on a sidestreet, with lovely interiors for taking a bit or doing work. But the best thing is the coffee. I brought home a bag from Brazil (Antonia Kellyson), bright, fruity, and with a hint of acidity.
The Miners Coffee Old Town—This is a much smaller shop/cafe, but if you are looking for specialty coffee in the Old Town, this is your spot.
Elias Cafe— If you’re vegan or like to mix in plant-based options, this little cafe is an excellent spot, especially in a city/country that is quite meat-heavy. Expect a fantastic assortment of pastries, cakes, and breakfast and lunch items. The cafe is also a vibe.
Shopping & Souvenirs
Bohemia—I stumbled on this souvenir shop while wandering through Old Town. The shop specializes in local artists with a fantastic offering of items you want to take home for yourself or give to others. A modern spin on classical souvenirs, you can find beautiful prints with an homage to vintage styles and art nouveau next to funky prints that nod to the youthful side of the city—take-home prints, socks, shirts, notebooks, totes, pins, and famous Czech authors.
Museums & Landmarks
Museum Kampa and Cafe—A contemporary museum highlighting Czech and global artists. For museum lovers, make sure to include this one on your list. The museum houses an extensive collection of artworks from the Czech artist František Kupka. There is also an ample collection of other contemporary Czech artists. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.
Places I missed but are on my hit list when I go back
Alma Wine Shop & Restaurant—Wine shop cum restaurant. Stop by for a bottle or two of natural wine and enjoy a glass and a snack. A nice change of pace from the traditional Czech meals and beer.
Arctic Bakehouse—A modern bakehouse churning out a mouth-watering selection of baked goods. I’m sad I missed it.
Cafe Savoy—This is a traditional cafe near the river where you can get pastries, cakes, coffee, and cocktails. If you want something local and traditional, this place hits the mark.
Hemming Way Bar—A highly recommended cocktail bar next to the Charles Bridge.
Paddle Boats—Pack a lunch and hit the water in these adorable paddle boats when the weather is sunny and warm. (They even come with lounge chairs.)
Vzorkovna Dog Bar—A dive bar for the books. This was recommended by a friend who lived in the city. If you want to start the night with shots and chaos, this is the right place.
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Un’Ondata di Calore: A Summer in Naples
Naples in July hits you like a wave—thick heat rising from the cobblestones and hanging heavy throughout the city. The only reprieve was an ice-cold beer. If you could find shade, it was a gift straight from heaven.
My boyfriend and I found ourselves ducking into a shadowy sidestreet bar one afternoon, lured in by the shade and curious about the Olympic Games playing on a flickering TV. Outside, the streets throbbed with life: speakers blasted reggaeton, groups of sunburned tourists weaved unsteadily through the crowds, and locals, young and loud, knocked back shots and shattered glass with reckless cheer. It was chaos—vivid, unapologetic chaos—and we were absolutely in love with it.
Naples has an intimacy that sneaks up on you. The winding alleys don’t just take you from A to B—they wrap around you, draw you in, and make you part of the story. Laundry sways overhead like soft flags of everyday life, casting patterned shadows on the cracked pavements. Murals of Maradona, Naples’ eternal saint, watch over the city from walls and windows; their paint may be faded, but their presence remains mighty.
Every street feels like it’s putting on a show just for you. Food hangs in storefront windows—fat wheels of cheese, cured meats, and pastries golden with sugar and sunshine—each begging to be photographed before devouring. There’s something thrillingly unfiltered about it all, a city that doesn’t clean itself up for tourists but instead invites you to fall for its flaws, its flavours, and its fierce, untamed spirit.
The Flavour of the Streets
If you want to know a place, eat where the locals eat—and in Naples, that’s practically everywhere. Food isn’t just a part of life here; it is life. It spills out of kitchens, steams behind glass counters, and sizzles on streetside grills. It’s eaten with hands, folded in paper, passed between friends, and never, ever overcomplicated.
We started with the obvious: pizza. Not the Instagrammable, overly engineered kind, but the classic Neapolitan pizza—charred, blistered crust, impossibly soft in the center, topped with sweet San Marzano tomatoes, milky mozzarella, and the barest whisper of basil. We grabbed slices from hole-in-the-wall spots where the oven was older than the staff, and the pizzaiolo barely looked up as he crafted edible magic. The best one? A nameless joint tucked into a narrow alley where scooters zipped past like we weren’t even there. The crust was smoky and alive, the tomato sauce tangy, and we ate it standing up, mouths burning, grinning.
But Naples doesn’t stop at pizza. One morning, we followed the waft from a bakery serving still-warm sfogliatelle, their flaky layers shattering with each bite, revealing creamy ricotta and a whisper of citrus. Coffee came fast and strong, served in tiny cups at busy bars where conversations buzzed louder than the espresso machines. Locals would toss them back like shots and be out the door before we’d taken our second sip. I was still getting used to the Italian way.
And the street food—my god, the street food. Fried delights like cuoppo (a paper cone filled with calamari, shrimp, and zucchini blossoms) or arancini, those golden, crunchy rice balls filled with ragu or gooey mozzarella. We munched as we wandered, pausing to point out another Maradona shrine or a cat lounging beneath a Vespa. Every snack seemed to come with a story, and every corner offered something new to taste.
Oceanic Reprieve
Just beyond the crowded streets and tangled alleyways, the coastline opens up like a secret—jagged rocks, sun-faded docks, and little inlets where locals dive into the sparkling blue without hesitation. We joined them, scrambling down hot stones, shedding our clothes, and plunging into the cool embrace of the Mediterranean. It was electric. That feeling of floating in the bay, the sun on your face, and Vesuvius watching in the distance—it stays with you.
Dolce Vita
Naples gives you a front-row seat to Italian life—messy, loud, passionate, full of contradictions and flavour. It was a joy just to sit back and observe. To let the city pull us along, from sidestreet bars to fried snacks, sunset swims, and midnight walks under clotheslines and fading frescoes. Naples may not be what you expect—but that’s what makes it unforgettable.
Naples Travel Recommendations
Some favourite finds from our summer wanderings in the city.
🎨 For a Hit of Culture:
Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum (Museo Madre)
Tucked inside a 19th-century palazzo, this museum blends bold contemporary works with a moody, historic backdrop. It’s the kind of space that feels thoughtful and raw—just like the city around it.
🍷 For a Low-Key Drink:
Oak Napoli Wine and Craft Beer
A cozy gem with a curated selection of natural wines and local craft brews. Ideal for escaping the madness of the streets, unwinding, and sipping something that tastes like Naples in a glass.
🍦 For Something Sweet:
Mozzelato
An unmissable stop for gelato lovers. Think creamy, rich flavours and a casual local vibe. The pistachio and fior di latte were standouts, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
🍻 For Late-Night Vibes:
Bucopertuso Public House
Atmospheric and friendly, this bar serves great cocktails with a side of Neapolitan cool. Expect eclectic music, a laid-back crowd, and the kind of place that makes you stay for “just one more.”
🌊 For a Breath of Sea Air:
Marechiaro
A quiet, romantic fishing village just outside the city, with views that make your heart ache a little. Perfect for a sunset escape from the city chaos. Bonus points if you find a local boatman to take you around the bay.
🍕 For the Street Food Fix:
Pizza Fritta
Fried pizza might sound indulgent (and it is), but it’s also deeply comforting. Look for the busy stalls or little storefronts serving it up hot and stuffed with ricotta, salami, and tomato sauce. A Neapolitan classic.
🛍️ For a Vintage Treasure Hunt:
Pepi Vintage Room
If you love rummaging through curated chaos, this is the perfect spot for you. From retro tees to old-school leather bags, it’s full of character and charm—like Naples itself.
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Saint Gilles a cozy, hip, alternative neighbourhood in Brussels
It’s been sixteen years since I first went to Brussels. I was on an exchange in Holland, where I was a fresh-faced 20-year-old in Europe for the first time. At the time, I was studying geopolitics, multi-lateral diplomacy, and art history, so Brussels felt like the convergence of politics, culture, and partying. My first trip was with 12 classmates; you’re probably already cringing, knowing the shoestring budget and how that manifested in the cheapest place to room, eat, and drink. However, we still had a blast exploring a new city, drinking our weight in beer, and creating memories to last a lifetime.
Fast-forward to 2024. As a working professional, I revisited Brussels with my boyfriend, opting for a cozy neighbourhood called St. Gilles instead of the rowdy city centre. This choice marked a significant shift from my university days, and I was pleasantly surprised by the new perspective it offered.
Of course, the city centre of Brussels is still more or less the same. Still, once you venture out into the adjacent neighbourhoods, you’ll find yourself transported into delightful neighbourhoods that are bustling with locals, interspersed with tourists, edged with a bit of grit with space for a beautiful assortment of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes that keep a city lively, engaging, and local. Architecturally, this neighbourhood is brimming with Art Nouveau and Art Deco design. The Horta Museum, Aegidium, or Maison Pelgrims are notable buildings.
Now that you have a glimpse of my journey in Brussels let’s explore the top spots that made my weekend in this vibrant city truly memorable.
Where to eat and drink:
Gusti Pizza: A tiny little spot in Saint Gilles with a colourful and vibrant charm. The pizza here is so tasty and a bit playful, such as the cheeseburger pizza, or some my cock an eyebrow at the Hawaiian. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, you’ll find something delicious here, and of course, cooked with a proper pizza oven!
Le Dillens is a vibey bar and restaurant in the Saint Gilles area with an excellent terrace. It offers a fantastic selection of natural wines, beers, ciders, and snacks.
Mendo Ramen— is a relaxed spot offering traditional ramen with handmade noodles. You can choose from meat or vegetarian broth/soup options. If you’re dining alone, sit at the bar and get cozy with a bowl of ramen and an ice-cold beer (or a note cup of green tea). The staff is friendly, the vibe is chill, and the food is delicious.
Little Tokyo—I came across this spot for a friend’s birthday party, which is suitable for groups, but make a reservation—a nice selection of Japanese comfort food, including ramen. I would recommend Mendo for ramen, though. However, the other dishes were quite good. Overall, it has a nice vibe, tasty cocktails, and a place to share plates for a date or with friends.
Forcado Pastelaria—If you need a taste of Portugal, you must pop by this little cafe. Expect creative twists on the classic pastel de nata, but the OG is available. You can also find Portuguese wine, sodas, and other pantry items to take home.
Hinterland—A popular brunch spot in St. Gilles, Hinterland offers a nice assortment of small bites like pastries, cakes, and smoothie bowls. For a proper weekend indulgence, upgrade to eggs, Benny, or pancakes with mascarpone. The portions are sizeable, so it’s a good spot to fuel up for the day.
Stella’s Coffee—This coffee spot is such a little gem. The cafe is a hot spot for the neighbourhood pups, featuring a wall of Polaroid photos of all the dogs (and some cats) that come to the shop. You can take an espresso-based coffee or opt for a filter coffee. I tried the Mexican beans, and they were delicious. If you go for breakfast, try their breakfast sandwich.
A night on the town:
Karaoke Bar Barvis Sprl—this iconic karaoke bar has locals and tourists flocking to this show-stopping bar. If you’re the performative type, you can elevate your performance by taking center stage for your song. Song requests are taken periodically throughout the night, so be quick with your request. If you don’t get a request, enjoy the ride and the atmosphere in which everyone is singing.
Café Maison du Peuple: This is a funky bar, especially on a Friday night. When I was there, they had a DJ playing fun disco tunes. There is a good selection of beer and cocktails and a decent food menu. When the weather is nice, they have a fantastic terrace. This spot is in the city centre but en route to Saint Gilles.
L’Ermitage Brewery Saint-Gilles—For a more chill night, hit up this eclectic local brewery. It offers a creative selection of craft beer, natural wine, and sourdough pizza. Each beer cleverly corresponds to a card in a tarot deck, emulating the art nouveau aesthetic that runs deep in the city while being playful and delicious. Expect a chill vibe from this local spot. I loved this spot.
Shopping:
Books & Magazines —PTYX is the type of bookstore I covet. They offer a fantastic selection of books on film, art, literature, architecture, gardening, philosophy, and even smaller publications (and everything else). A copy of the recently released Sophia Coppola Archive in the window stopped me. If you want a unique selection, this is a great spot.
Reservoir Store— A premium concept store for men and women. A low-key modern aesthetic with key hype brands and unique local and global brands.
Arts & Culture:
The Horta Museum, a living museum housed in the renowned art nouveau architect’s home, is a worthwhile visit. A spiralling space, well-preserved to this day, offers a fascinating insight into Horta’s design inspirations, from shells to other natural artifacts. Due to its popularity, booking in advance is recommended. *Note you cannot take photos inside the museum.
About Me
I always start my trips at a cafe, well known for it’s filter coffee or flat whites, followed up with a quick chat with the baristas on their favourite spots in the city. And getting lost in the sidestreets has always yielded the most interesting things.
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