Top Bars in Ghent – Most Viewed (2025)

Nestled in the heart of Ghent's historic Vrijdagmarkt, Dulle Griet is a legendary beer café renowned for its vast selection of over 500 Belgian and international brews. The pub's rustic, medieval ambiance is accentuated by wooden interiors, antique decor, and cartwheel chandeliers, transporting patrons to a bygone era.​ A standout tradition here is the serving of their house beer, 'Max van het Huis,' a potent golden ale presented in a 1.2-liter boot-shaped glass. To ensure the safe return of these unique glasses, patrons are asked to leave one of their shoes as a deposit, which is hoisted in a basket above the bar—a quirky ritual that adds to the bar's charm.​ Whether you're a beer connoisseur or a curious traveler, Dulle Griet offers an unforgettable experience, blending rich Belgian beer culture with distinctive traditions.

Situated within the elegant walls of 1898 The Post Hotel—a restored post office on Ghent’s iconic Graslei quay—The Cobbler invites you into an era of refined mixology and architectural grandeur. Climb the stone staircase (or take the lift) to discover a cocktail bar where vintage charm meets contemporary craftsmanship. The décor is cinematic: towering windows, taupe high ceilings, plush armchairs perched atop warm wood floors, shelves of antique books, and a glowing fireplace that anchors a mood of cozy sophistication. It’s like walking into a scene from Citizen Kane or North by Northwest. Behind the bar, signature “cobbler” cocktails—born from the classic mix of spirit, sugar, crushed ice, and seasonal fruit—are reinvented with ancestral creativity and seasonal flair. Think aperitifs, dessert cocktails, hot sips, or mocktails—all balanced with precision. What truly elevates the experience is the view: panoramic vistas over Ghent’s historic center and tranquil river craft—offered free with your drink. Service here is attentive and expert—bartenders adapt drinks to your palate, whether you're craving light summer flavors or complex, spirit-forward blends. Occasional winter evenings unfold by the fire, while in summer you can sip on the terrace and bask in riverside buzz. The Cobbler operates without reservations for smaller parties, though groups of seven or more should reach out ahead to sales@1898thepost.com. It’s open from 5 PM nightly, offering cocktails until 11 PM on weekdays, and stretching to midnight or later on weekends. This is a place built for lingering—where every sip tells a story, every detail whispers heritage, and the city unfolds right outside your glass.