Between the Sablon and the Marolles
Beers from around 4 euro, whiskies above
Vaulted cellar, candlelight volume
Our Take on La Porte Noire
La Porte Noire sits behind a black door at Rue des Alexiens 67, on the slope between the Sablon and the Marolles. The bar itself is downstairs, a vaulted brick cellar that belonged to a 16th century convent of the Alexian brothers.
The list runs past 100 Belgian beers with around 80 whiskies behind them, and a draft selection that balances traditional and modern Belgian brewing. RateBeer and BeerAdvocate both track it as one of central Brussels' serious beer destinations.
Tripadvisor reviewers describe it as a locals' cellar rather than a tourist stop, with small beers starting around 4 euro. The lighting stays low, the brickwork curves overhead and conversation carries the room.
It only opens Wednesday through Saturday from 6pm, so plan around it. Occasional live sets push the volume up, but most nights stay at candlelight level.
Ask the bar to steer you by style rather than reading all 100 entries. For more of the city, see our Brussels pubs guide, the best craft beer bars in Brussels, and the best bars in Brussels.
The Move at La Porte Noire
The Word on Sablon
- Tripadvisor reviewers call it a magnificent cellar and a favorite bar in Brussels, with great prices and a non touristy crowd.
- Foursquare tips from more than 1,200 visitors flag the brick arches, the dim light and the draft Belgian selection.
- BeerAdvocate and RateBeer both list it among central Brussels' essential beer stops, with the whisky shelf as the sleeper strength.
Read the Room
- Beer drinkers who want depth without a tourist queue
- A late date that suits candlelight and brick vaults
- Skip it if you need daylight or a Sunday session, it opens Wednesday to Saturday only
When To Visit La Porte Noire
Wednesday and Thursday from 6pm give you the cellar at conversation volume and a free pick of tables. The room rewards arriving early.
Friday and Saturday run late and fill with locals after 9pm. Go before then or settle in for the long haul.
Inside La Porte Noire
