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La Fleur en Papier Doré: A Surrealist Haven in Brussels

Step back in time at this historic Brussels café, a former haunt of surrealist artists and a treasure trove of Belgian culture.

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La Fleur en Papier Doré, or 'The Golden Paper Flower,' is a historic Brussels café that has been a gathering place for artists, writers, and intellectuals since the early 20th century. Known for its surrealist connections and unique, cluttered interior, it offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant cultural past.

A brief summary to La Fleur en Papier Doré

  • Monday 12 pm-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
  • Thursday 12 pm-12 am
  • Friday 12 pm-12 am
  • Saturday 12 pm-12 am
  • Sunday 12 pm-10 pm

Local tips

  • Take time to explore the café's interior, filled with art, aphorisms, and quirky objects that reflect its history.
  • Try the local beers and traditional Belgian dishes for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Check out the occasional poetry readings and cultural events hosted at the café.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    La Fleur en Papier Doré is located on Rue des Alexiens, a short walk from the Grand Place. From the Grand Place, walk south towards Rue de l'Étuve, then turn left onto Rue du Lombard. Continue onto Rue de la Violette, then turn right onto Rue des Alexiens. The café will be on your left. This walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. Note that Rue des Alexiens is a long hill.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to La Fleur en Papier Doré is Gare Centrale. From Gare Centrale, take the metro line 1 or 5 to De Brouckère station, then follow the walking directions above. A single journey ticket costs €2.30 if purchased before boarding. Contactless payment is also available on Brussels public transport for €2.30, with a daily cap of €8.40.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Brussels. A taxi from Gare Centrale to La Fleur en Papier Doré will cost approximately €10-€17, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi fares in Brussels start at €2.60, with a price per kilometer of €2.30 and a price per minute of €0.60. Be aware that there is a €2 surcharge for rides between 10 PM and 6 AM.

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Discover more about La Fleur en Papier Doré

La Fleur en Papier Doré, nestled on Rue des Alexiens, is more than just a café; it's a living testament to Brussels' rich artistic and cultural history. Housed in one of the few 17th-century buildings that survived the bombardment of Brussels, this 'estaminet' (a type of traditional Belgian café) began attracting artists and writers in the early 1900s, becoming a hub for the Belgian Surrealist movement in the 1920s. From 1944 to 1964, Geert van Bruaene, a charismatic figure, presided over the café, turning it into a haven for artists like René Magritte, Jacques Brel, and Hergé. Members of the CoBrA movement, including Dotremont and Alechinsky, also frequented the establishment. Van Bruaene's influence is still palpable, with his aphorisms and quirky collection of objects adorning the walls. The café's interior is a captivating time capsule, with mismatched furniture, vintage decor, and walls covered in art and memorabilia. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, fostering lively conversations and a sense of community. La Fleur en Papier Doré offers a menu of traditional Belgian fare, local beers, and a selection of coffees and teas. It remains a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Brussels experience. The building's facade, roof, and ground floor rooms are protected as a listed monument, preserving its unique cultural significance.

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