In October, the Belgian Beer Cafes in Sydney will celebrate 10 years in Australia.

Belgian Beer Cafe Epoque in Cammeray

The three venues – Belgian Beer Cafe Epoque in Cammeray, Belgian Beer Café Heritage in The Rocks and Belgian Beer Café Balmain in Balmain East – have become a highlight for Australian beer lovers.

The beer, expertly served and poured in the traditional way and the Belgian inspired menu in the surrounds of authentic décor imported from Belgium are the main reasons for their continued success.

The first Belgian Beer Café opened in Sydney in 1999 under the ownership of Olivier Massart, whose career began at La villa Lorraine, one of the most famous Belgian restaurants around Brussels. He decided to open Epoque in Cammeray, after seven years in diverse restaurants around Sydney. 

The three venues were designed by the trendsetting Belgian-based design firm, Creneau International. All the interior pieces (tables, chairs, antique tiles, wood panelling, bar, mirrors, old stove, etc) were imported from Belgium and the look was designed to replicate the traditional Belgian bistro and has been recreated from architectural salvage – mostly with vintage pieces from the 1900s to the 1940s.

“Epoque was the first Belgian Beer Cafe in Australia,” Massart says. “We wanted to share with Australians the Belgian passion for good food and great beer in a social and relaxed environment having experienced Australian’s love for the same.

“The traditional Belgian cuisine prepared with the best local produce, combined with over 40 different Belgian beers has certainly been a hit with the Sydney market,” he says.

Belgian Beer Cafés Sydney will celebrate the 10th Anniversary with promotions, live music, events and giveaways throughout the month of October.

For event bookings, email Daniela Penno at functions@belgian-beer-cafe.com.au