Brussels guinguettes to try this summer season

Every summer, Brussels is gifted with guinguettes, open air bars spread across the city's best parks. The Brussels Times has selected its top picks for the summer months.

Guinguettes had an uncertain start this year due to an ambiguous financial situation. The official guinguettes run by Brussels Environment since 2017 benefit from regional support and Brussels has not had a government for almost one year.

However, city residents can breathe a sigh of relief as the popular summer bars found a way to reopen since early May.

Here is a selection of guinguettes that those sticking around for the summer should check out.

Kiosk Radio

Credit: visit.brussels

Located in Brussels Park and known as the city's go-to alternative music venue, Kiosk Radio is the place to be.

The Radio is open year-round and has a dedicated clientèle who grace its benches no matter the weather. However, the experience is bound to improve as the weather gets warmer (and hopefully dryer). Keep an eye out for a never-ending and eclectic music lineup.

Parc de Bruxelles, Brussels 1000. Find more information here.

Guinguette Julien

Staying in Brussels Park, Guinguette Julien is a favourite of partygoers for its packed lineup, especially its Vaux-Hall summer events: expect salsa classes, yoga sessions, DJ sets, upcycling workshops and more.

Julien relaunches on 16 June and will be open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 13 August.

Parc de Bruxelles, Brussels 1000. Find more information here.

Guinguette Émile

Over in Duden Park, Julien's brother Guinguette Émile offers a similar ambiance, this time with a uniquely stunning view (and decent burgers).

Guinguette-goers will have to wait until 1 July for this option, which will stay open until 24 September (something to help cope with the waning summer!).

Parc Duden, Forest 1190. Find more information here.

Jardin Hospice

Jardin Hospice is open year-round but its summer guinguette adds even more to this historical (and heritage-listed) venue. The garden is open from 14:00 until late, seven days a week.

Credit: Jardin Hospice

Not only are drinks and snacks are available, patrons can check out a wide range of activities such as flea markets, DJ sets, pétanque games and more.

The venue can be booked for private use too.

7 Rue du Grand Hospice, Brussels 1000. Find more information here.

Le Kiosque

Back to the bustling city, Le Kiosque is without doubt the coolest joint in Bois de la Cambre and is open seven days a week (Not to be confused with Kiosk Radio above).

Credit: Le Kiosque

Open every day from 09:00 to 22:00, Le Kiosque offers food and drink, is dog-friendly and allows for bookings for large groups. It also has an exciting cultural programme well worth checking out.