A new wineshop venue just off the Place Sablon. A friendly welcome from the knowledgable owner,…read morePinto, who is passionate about her wines, all sourced directly from the winemakers in Italy and Spain. Tastings are a delight - try her early evening tastings Thursdays and Fridays, and make sure you sample the Tuscan charcuterie and cheeses. Prices are surprisingly affordable and certainly good value for money.

Yeah, this place is as good as it gets, because there's not many places (even in the chocolate…read moremecca of Belgium) that mix the concept of swank wine bar with artisanal chocolate haven. Alex & Alex does just this in a cosy, yet chic, cafe environment next to the sablon where the "big boys" of chocolate dominate (think: Marcolini, Godiva, Neuhaus, etc). In spite of the competition, Alex & Alex is worth checking out as it offers clientele the opportunity to pair handmade confections by chocolatier Frederic Blondeel with glasses (trust me, you'll have more than one) of champagne. If you're not into bubbles there's tea and coffee along with other cold/hot drinks. What I enjoy most about Alex & Alex is that it's less busy than the upmarket joints located across the street (mind you I adore Pierre Marcolini and think it's worth stopping in to grab a box of their macarons or 85% Madagascar dark), the environment is always inviting, and I always find something unique that I sure as hell would not have found at one of the more mainstream chocolatiers. Another big selling point is that Frederic Blondeel has several dairy/soy free options so you don't have to look on with envy as your friends snap up a handful of pralines to indulge in. For more: http://fortheintolerants.com/?p=5078

250 Beers Belgium is conveniently located in the tourist area so if you want to pick up souvenirs…read moreglasswares or beers. Price wise might not be as good as getting some of them from the supermarket but there is definitely a lot more in selection. I am out of luck as my hotel room does not have a fridge as none of the beers are chilled.

Awesome selection of beers.read more