The 5 best bars for jazz and blues in Brussels

Ring the doorbell to enter. The doorman eventually admits you to this secretive cocktail bar built in 1937 in art deco style. The chrome detailing and balcony are now a bit faded, but the place is still one of the coolest places for jazz. Arrive at the right time, and someone will be playing the piano.

Back in the Eighties, Rosy and Sergio created this intimate jazz club in an Ixelles back street. Now a little worn, it’s still a welcoming place with something happening most nights. Some big names in Belgian jazz have passed through this laid-back venue.

Trains no longer stop at the Chaussée de Louvain station, but the 19th-century Flemish Renaissance building is still standing next to the tracks. It was carefully restored in 2005 by the jazz- loving local mayor to create a striking modern jazz centre where emerging local talent is nurtured.

This upmarket private jazz club occupies two 17th-century houses near Grand’ Place. It hosts some great jazz performers from Belgium and abroad.

A friendly crowd gathers in Roskam on Sunday evenings to listen to cool jazz sounds. A relic of the art deco age, this intimate downtown bar serves classic Belgian beers including Antwerp’s De Koninck on tap. The weekly programme features innovative musicians performing in a range of contemporary styles.