The 1846 Brussels Coffeehouse That Trains Its Guests

In the heart of Brussels, tucked near the royal palace, sits a coffeehouse that’s been refining the art of coffee since before modern coffee culture even existed. It’s not just the location or the royal visitors that make this place remarkable—it’s the way they still teach every guest, even today, how to truly experience their coffee.

The answer lies in 1846. That year, a family opened this coffeehouse, and for 180 years, every barista, owner, and even passerby has felt responsible for teaching customers how to respect and enjoy their cup. This isn’t just tradition—it’s a daily practice of refinement.

The Day a Taiwanese Executive Learned to Drink Coffee in Brussels

A Taiwanese company executive, Mr. Yu, once stopped by this historic café during a trip through Belgium. When his coffee arrived, he drank it casually—until the owner stepped in. 'Sir, that’s not how you drink coffee,' the owner said. He then made Yu a new cup, step by step. Even after brewing it for him, the owner insisted Yu brew his own next cup. Only then was it deemed acceptable to drink. And when Yu finally lifted the cup, the owner instructed him to sip slowly, stir the crema with his tongue, let the aroma rise, and enjoy the full experience. 'Wonderful Coffee!' the owner declared.

A Royal Clientele and a Number Above the Door

Before leaving, Yu learned something even more surprising. He hadn’t noticed the number above the café door: 1846. That’s the year the business was founded—when China was still under the Qing Dynasty. The café sits beside the Royal Palace, and over the decades, it’s hosted royalty including Prince Philip, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, and Queen Elizabeth II. The walls are lined with photos of these visits, silently testifying to the café’s enduring prestige.

Why a Coffeehouse Lasts 180 Years

This café has endured not just because of its location or clientele, but because of an unwavering commitment to teaching. From correcting a guest’s brewing technique to insisting on the right way to savour coffee, every interaction reinforces quality and tradition. The owner’s willingness to educate—even offering a free second cup—is a small act that embodies the philosophy behind the café’s longevity. As the management lesson goes: 'Many many years create a little tradition. Many many traditions create a little culture.' This coffeehouse’s unique flavour isn’t just in the cup—it’s in 180 years of continuous teaching, refining, and commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was the Brussels coffeehouse founded?

The coffeehouse was founded in 1846, making it over 180 years old. It was established long before modern coffee culture developed, during the Qing Dynasty in China.

Where is this historic coffeehouse located?

The coffeehouse is located in Brussels, right next to the Royal Palace. Its proximity to the palace has historically attracted members of European nobility and royalty.

Did royalty really visit this café?

Yes. The café’s walls feature photos of visits by Prince Philip, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, and Queen Elizabeth II, confirming its long-standing reputation among European royalty.

What did the café owner teach the Taiwanese executive?

The owner corrected the executive’s casual coffee drinking technique, brewed a new cup for him, then had him brew his own. He also instructed him to sip slowly, use his tongue to stir the coffee’s surface, and let the aroma rise before swallowing.

Why does the café still teach customers how to drink coffee?

The café believes in preserving tradition through continuous education. Teaching guests how to properly enjoy coffee ensures the quality and cultural value of the experience are maintained, a practice unchanged since 1846.

Is there a charge for the second cup the owner gave the executive?

No. The owner insisted the second cup—after the executive brewed it himself—was free ('Free!', he said), even though it was served to a first-time visitor who was about to leave the country.

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