German Beer In Brussels: Where To Buy?

Brussels is known as the beer capital of the world, and for good reason. The city is brimming with specialised breweries and bars, and even hosts its own Oktoberfest, where people can enjoy Bavarian culture, including German beer. However, if you're looking for German beer in Brussels, you may find it difficult to find anything non-Belgian. While German beer is available in some supermarkets, such as Lidl and Aldi, and in bars like Berlin Fabrik, it is not as easy to come by as the local brew.

German beers at Brussels' Oktoberfest

Brussels' Oktoberfest is a fantastic opportunity to sample some German beers and discover a little about Bavarian culture. The event usually takes place over a couple of weeks in October, and it's a great time to try out some new beer types and celebrate with other beer enthusiasts. While it may not be as big as the original Munich Oktoberfest, it's a chance to welcome the autumn, Bavarian-style, with traditional music, food, and, of course, beer!

Now, onto the beers! German beers are renowned worldwide, and you can expect to find a variety of styles at Brussels' Oktoberfest. Here are some of the German beers you might encounter:

• Warsteiner: This well-known German beer is a popular choice and can be found in some bars in Brussels, such as Berlin Fabrik on Rue Haute.
• Bitburger: Another German lager that may be available during Brussels' Oktoberfest.
• Bavarian Specialities: Expect a range of Bavarian beers, including those from Munich, known for its rich brewing history and the original Oktoberfest.
• International Varieties: In addition to German beers, you may find other international options at Brussels' Oktoberfest, reflecting the diverse brewing traditions of different countries.

While German beers are the focus, Brussels' Oktoberfest also showcases the city's vibrant beer culture. The city is known for its specialised breweries and bars, each with its unique offering. Here are some places to check out for German beers and beyond:

• Beer Mania: With over 400 traditional Belgian beers, including rare and ancient varieties, Beer Mania is a beer lover's paradise.
• De Biertempel: Offering almost 1,000 types of beer, De Biertempel specialises in craft and rare beers.
• Huens: Located in a university district, Huens is Brussels' oldest beer shop, with a constantly evolving selection.
• Le Barboteur: This dynamic boutique offers a range of beers, including international options, alongside small selections of wine and sake.
• Les Fleurs du Malt: Here, you'll find hundreds of artisanal beers and a delicatessen, and they regularly host tasting evenings and brewing courses.

So, whether you're seeking German beers or want to explore the broader offerings, Brussels' Oktoberfest and its vibrant beer scene have something for every palate. Prost!

German beers in supermarkets

Brussels is known for its Belgian beers, but if you're looking for German beer, there are a few places you can try.

Lidl and Aldi are two supermarket chains that may stock German pilsners, though it's worth noting that the selection may be limited and may not include specific brands like Warsteiner. These stores are likely to carry a range of German-style lagers and pilsners, which are typically lighter and easier-drinking beers.

Beer Shops

If you're looking for a wider selection, you might want to try specialised beer shops. De Biertempel, for example, offers nearly 1,000 types of beer, with a focus on craft and rare beers. Beer Mania is another option, offering over 400 traditional Belgian beers, including rare and ancient varieties, but they may also stock some German options.

Bars and Festivals

For a more immediate tasting experience, bars like Berlin Fabrik offer a range of German beers, though their draught options may not be well-maintained. Brussels' Oktoberfest is another great opportunity to sample Bavarian culture, including their beers, traditional music, and food.

While German beers may not be as prevalent in Brussels as Belgian beers, a little searching will uncover some options for those looking to broaden their beer-drinking horizons.

Beer bars in Brussels

Brussels is known as the beer capital of the world, and for good reason. The city is brimming with specialised breweries and bars where you can sample this precious beverage.

If you're looking for German beer in Brussels, there is a bar on Rue Haute called 'Berlin Fabrik' which has Warsteiner on draught and excellent bottled German beers.

For a wider selection of international beers, you can try Malt Attacks in St Gilles, which offers the possibility to fill a "growler" (a large reusable bottle) with draught beer. However, be aware that most of the beers available here are still very strong, and similar to those found in Belgium.

For a wider selection of beers to try, Brussels has a plethora of beer bars to choose from. Here are some of the best:

Moeder Lambic

Moeder Lambic has two bars in Saint-Gilles and the city centre, both with incredible beer selections. It's a great place to try Belgian and adjacent beers.

Delirium Café

Hidden in a small street next to the pictural Rue des Bouchers, Delirium Café has the largest selection of beers in the world and is the home base for Brewery Huyghe's Delirium brand. They have a remarkable selection of beer on tap and in bottles.

Bier Circus

For independent beers, bottled or on tap, Bier Circus is a paradise for beer lovers.

Le Barboteur

A dynamic and vibrant beer boutique that explores tastes from Belgium and beyond. Le Barboteur also has small selections of wines and sake from time to time.

De Biertempel

With more than 25 years of expertise and almost 1,000 types of beer, De Biertempel offers a wide selection that mainly focuses on craft and rare beers.

La Porte Noire

La Porte Noire has a rich selection of typical beers and diverse concerts. The vaulted space used to house the kitchens of an Alexian convent and has a Middle Ages and Celtic atmosphere.

À la mort subite

À la mort subite is a charming bar that loves authentic Belgian beers and serves large cheese and brawn sandwiches.

Daringman

The small retro bar Daringman is hidden between the fashion district and the canal. It was named “Belgium’s best beer bar” by The Guardian in 2012.

Poechenellekelder

Poechenellekelder is a genuine pint-sized puppet theatre with a fantastic collection of theatre puppets and a solid beer selection.

Au Bon Vieux Temps

Although you can expect to pay above market prices here, Au Bon Vieux Temps is a cool place to drink a beer with a decent selection.

Les Fleurs du Malt

In addition to hundreds of artisanal beers, Les Fleurs du Malt has a delicatessen on site and regularly organises tasting evenings and brewing training courses.

Malting Pot

With more than 200 types of craft beer from Belgium and abroad, Malting Pot will satisfy all taste buds.

Prik & Tik

Specialists in beverages of all kinds, Prik & Tik has a large assortment of Belgian and foreign beers brewed on a large scale (more than 500).

Beer boutiques in Brussels

Brussels, the beer capital of the world, is brimming with specialised breweries, bars, and boutiques where you can taste and purchase a diverse range of beers. Here is a guide to some of the top beer boutiques in the city:

Beer Mania

Beer Mania is a renowned beer merchant in Brussels, offering a wide selection of more than 400 traditional Belgian beers, including rare and ancient varieties. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide advice and guidance to beer enthusiasts.

De Biertempel

With over 25 years of expertise, De Biertempel boasts an extensive collection of nearly 1,000 types of beer, focusing primarily on craft and rare beers. This boutique is a must-visit for those seeking a diverse range of Belgian beers.

Huens

Located in a university district, Huens is the oldest beer shop in Brussels, established in 1917. It is a favourite among students and offers an ever-evolving selection of beers, ensuring that there is always something new to discover.

Le Barboteur

Le Barboteur is a dynamic and vibrant beer boutique that goes beyond Belgian borders to explore tastes from around the world. In addition to beer, they also offer small selections of wines and sake for those who enjoy exploring different beverages.

Les Fleurs du Malt

Les Fleurs du Malt offers a unique experience with hundreds of artisanal beers and an on-site delicatessen. They regularly organise tasting evenings and brewing training courses, making it a great choice for those who want to deepen their knowledge of beer.

Malt Attacks

Malt Attacks, located in St Gilles, specialises in international beers, including German varieties. They offer the unique opportunity to fill a "growler", a large reusable bottle, with draught beer, allowing you to enjoy a fresh pint at home.

La Source Beer Co

La Source Beer Co is a brewery located in Northern Brussels that stands out for its experimental and innovative approach to brewing. They offer a range of IPAs and even "dessert" beers, providing a unique tasting experience.

While German beer may not be as prevalent in Brussels due to the strong presence of Belgian beers, these boutiques offer a diverse range of options for beer enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking rare Belgian varieties or international options like German lager, Brussels has something for every beer lover.

Beer shops in Brussels

Brussels is known for its wide variety of beer shops, which offer everything from Belgian craft beers to international options. While German beer may be harder to come by, there are a few places that might be worth checking out.

One option is to visit the supermarkets Lidl and Aldi, which are said to carry some German pilsners, though perhaps not the specific brands you're looking for. Another option is a bar called Berlin Fabrik on Rue Haute, which serves Warsteiner on draught and has excellent bottles of German beer.

If you're looking for a beer shop that specialises in a wide variety of beers, you might want to try one of the following:

• Beer Mania – a veritable beer merchant with more than 400 traditional Belgian beers on display, including rare and ancient varieties.
• De Biertempel – with nearly 25 years of expertise and almost 1,000 types of beer, this shop offers a wide selection that mainly focuses on craft and rare beers.
• Huens – the oldest beer shop in Brussels, located in a university district and offering a constantly evolving selection.
• Le Barboteur – a dynamic and vibrant beer boutique that explores tastes from Belgium and beyond, with small selections of wines and sake also available at times.
• Les Fleurs du Malt – in addition to hundreds of artisanal beers, this shop has a delicatessen on site and regularly organises tasting evenings and brewing training courses.
• Malt Attacks – featuring nearly 600 types of Belgian and foreign craft beers, with the unique option to fill a "growler" (a large reusable bottle) with draught beer.
• Malting Pot – a superb selection of more than 200 craft beers from Belgium and abroad, sure to satisfy all taste buds.
• Prik & Tik – specialists in beverages of all kinds, with a large assortment of over 500 Belgian and foreign beers brewed on a large scale.

While some of these shops may carry German beers, it's always a good idea to call ahead and check if they have what you're looking for in stock. Cheers to your beer hunting adventures in Brussels!

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