Editor’s note: If there’s a woman who knows the Brussels social scene, it is my dear friend and social butterfly, Audrey O’Connor. She was the one who introduced me to the Dominican Hotel bar years ago. This beautiful space is still a favorite with locals and travelers alike. She shares her experience with The Dining Traveler in her debut as our Europe Contributor.
Audrey’s take on The Dominican Hotel Bar:
The Dominican Hotel Brussels
Since the pedestrianisation of Brussels centre, human traffic has increased considerably. There remains however a hidden gem tucked away behind the theatre in the heart of the city, which provides an oasis of calm in the bustling city. The Dominican Hotel is a member of the elegant Design Hotels of the World boasting heigh ceilings and cloisters incorporated into the design of the hotel, reminiscent of the Dominican Abbey located there in the 15th century. The site of The Dominican was also home to the well-known French painter Jacques-Louis David. After his death in 1825, the house he lived in was named after him.
The Dominican Hotel Bar
David is well-known for his last great masterpiece ‘Mars disarmed by Venus and the Three Graces’ which he completed in this house. The original façade of Jacques-Louis David’s home has remained intact and was integrated into the design of The Dominican. The Dominican’s Grand Lounge provides a large selection of seating, in the form of high chairs at the bar, comfy sofas along the windows or plump chairs beside the ‘open fire’. The “Food Book” contains several pages of cocktails, priced between €11 and €15.50, and all expertly made by the talented barmen (who we hear have taken training in London for the job).
Cocktails at The Dominican Hotel Bar
As I was accompanied by some friends, we had the opportunity to try several different cocktails, each as delicious as the other:
A traditional Cosmopolitan (€12,00) for the ladies, using a mixture of Russian Standard Platinum Vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice and lime juice served in a tall cocktail glass, like it should.
My current favourite, the Premium Mai Tai (€13,00) is a blend of Pyrat X.O Rum from Anguilla, Clement V.S.O.P Rum from Martinique, Orgeat syrup, egg white and lime juice. Truly delicious with a good kick!
My ‘boy’ has recently taken to their Basil Smash (€13,00) and the other gents in the group were quick to follow suit, ordering this Tanqueray Gin, lime juice, fresh basil and sugar melange, barely shaken, and poured over ice (to protect that precious basil fragrance no doubt).
Snacks at Dominican Hotel Bar
To line the stomachs, we were treated to a sharing plate including a couple of Grey shrimp croquettes, Cheese croquettes and Scampi tempura served with a sweet dipping sauce. Thankfully these fried bites were tasty and not greasy, a pet peeve of mine. Each cocktail is made to order, and is done so with care. The menu reaches out to all tastes and you can also order your own personalised cocktail if you like. I have had the pleasure of tasting many, but that night I was very happy with my Cosmo and my Mai Tai. Between the luxurious surroundings, the soft velvety feel of the sofas and the lack of city-centre bustle, one really is invited to sit back and relax at The Dominican. A cute outside terrace lined with wrought-iron chairs and tables, softened with black cushions, lines the back side of the bar, with a view on the inner courtyard. Perfect for the warmer months.
Decor at Dominican Hotel Bar
The staff are all trilingual and international. Service is warm, professional and polite. Not often you find this mixture in Brussels. Each Friday, the hotel holds their “BRUT: BUBBLES & FRIES!” evening with their newly elected resident DJ from 6-10pm. The concept is that over your glass of champagne, you receive a small packet of fries with a gourmet sauce. Not a place to to miss if in Brussels.
Great article. The Dominican is such a great hotel in Brussels and their bar is quite a must visit.
Agreed! It was fun to have the girl who introduced me to this bar write the story!
yummm! those snacks, and ofcourse the drinks, look delicious!
XO Sahra
Que Sera Sahra
The cocktails here are delish! Recommend if you’re in Brussels.
Comments are closed.