Leuven's Iconic Historical Cafes
Discover Leuven’s Iconic Cafes: A Blend of History and Charm
Leuven, a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and rich history, boasts some of the most iconic cafes in the world. These historic establishments are not just places to enjoy a coffee; they are living testaments to Leuven's storied past and café culture. Here are three must-visit cafes in Leuven that capture the essence of the city's charm and heritage:
Cafe Gambrinues
Location: Grote Markt, Leuven
Café Gambrinus stands as the oldest and grandest café in Leuven, preserving the ambiance of the Belle Époque era with its elegant paneling and marble tables. This historic café, originally established in 1896 at the corner of Eikstraat and Boekhandelstraat, moved to its current location on Grote Markt in 1932 after the 1914 fire. It was famously featured in Baedeker's travel guide in 1905.
The café’s interior, adorned with allegorical scenes commissioned by a Munich Bräuhaus, offers a glimpse into Leuven's rich history. Enjoy a creamy café glacé served in silver cups while admiring the historic decor and the company of celestial figures from the past.
Café Commerce
Location: Herbert Hooverplein 16, Ladeuzeplein, Leuven
Café Commerce is a beloved fixture in Leuven, offering a spacious and bright atmosphere in winter and a wide terrace with stunning views of the university library, Ladeuzeplein, and Hooverplein's flower beds in summer. Over the past 25 years, this café has evolved from a student hangout to a popular spot for all types of patrons.
Known for its perfect snacks and the divine Chimay Tripel from the barrel, Café Commerce combines simplicity with excellence, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors.
Café Metropole
Location: Oude Markt 46 , Leuven
Originally known as 'The Tribunaal,' Café Metropole underwent extensive renovations to reopen in 1983. This iconic café on the Oude Markt has become a landmark in Leuven, renowned for its legendary service and classic menu.
With a menu featuring enduring favorites like 9-vegetable spaghetti, Bolognese sauce, and tagliatelle alla Romana, Café Metropole is a staple of Leuven’s vibrant café scene. Its location on the Oude Markt offers a perfect vantage point to enjoy the lively atmosphere of what is often called the ‘longest bar in the world.’
Leuven Central
Margarethaplein 3, Leuven 3000 België
The Leuven Central cafe took over the legacy of Brasserie Houblon Louvain. Once the trendy brasserie Houblon Louvain has become a cozy local café where everyone is welcome. A real working-class café in the purest sense of the word. People are welcome here for a nice pint but also for a roll with ham or cheese as Big Bill so beautifully sings.
SOURCE: "The content of this article has been gathered from the book 'LEUVEN,' authored by Eric Mic and published in 2023."
Photos by Aslı Tezcan
