Information
Landmark: Het Waterhuis aan de BierkantCity: Ghent
Country: Belgium
Continent: Europe
Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant, Ghent, Belgium, Europe
Overview
Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant is a much-loved beer café tucked along the river in the heart of Ghent, Belgium.This cozy pub, with shelves lined in amber bottles of Belgian brew, has earned its place at the heart of the city’s lively beer scene.The pub’s name means “The Waterhouse on the Beer Quay,” a nod to its spot on the Leie River, where sunlight glints off the water, and to its love of beer.Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant has been pouring pints for decades, earning its place as one of Ghent’s top beer bars, where the clink of glasses carries through the old riverside building.Perched on the banks of the Leie River-one of the city’s prettiest stretches-the café draws both locals and visitors, with its spot near the Korenmarkt and Ghent’s historic center offering clear views of the water and the ornate facades across it.Perched on the riverbank, it’s the perfect place to sip a cold drink and watch boats glide past and people wander by.Steeped in Belgium’s proud brewing heritage, the café carries a long tradition of beer in every frothy glass.Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant has earned a loyal following among beer lovers eager to sample the rich variety of Belgian brews, with shelves lined from top to bottom in bottles ranging from golden triples to dark, malty stouts.The pub serves more than 200 beers from breweries all over Belgium, from small-batch craft and rich trappist ales to hometown favorites and world-renowned classics.You can sip a malty Dubbel, a golden Tripel, a crisp Blond, a tart Lambic, a cloudy Witbier, or an ice-cold Pilsner.You might spot famous names like Westvleteren, Chimay, La Chouffe, and Duvel on the menu.The café also keeps things fresh with rotating craft selections from small breweries, pouring seasonal brews and rare, one-off editions that disappear fast.The staff know their beers inside and out, ready to guide you toward a pint that matches your taste-whether you like something crisp or rich and malty.Along with an impressive selection, they’ll suggest food pairings that turn a simple drink into a full experience.Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant wraps it all in a cozy, welcoming space where dark wood meets gentle light.Thick wooden beams stretch overhead, stone walls keep the air cool, and the rustic decor wraps the space in the warmth of an old tavern.It’s the ideal spot to sip a quiet drink or laugh with friends, with tables set right beside the Leie River, where the sunlight glints off the water as you enjoy your beer.On warm summer days, the outdoor terrace draws a crowd, with people leaning back in their chairs, sipping drinks, and taking in the view.Though the setting feels intimate and cozy, the café hums with conversation, its easygoing energy steeped in the friendly spirit of Belgian drinking culture.Beer lovers from all over the world gather here to share their passion for Belgian brews, clinking glasses over rich, foamy pours.While the café is famous for its beer list, it also serves up classic Belgian bar snacks-think crispy fries and tangy cheese-to round out the experience.You might find cheese boards, charcuterie, crispy frites, and other small bites that match beautifully with the beers on tap.Every so often, the bar rolls out a pairing menu, matching select brews with dishes that bring out their best flavors.The café also hosts tasting sessions, inviting visitors to explore the depth and character of Belgian beers.At these tastings, you can dive into the flavors and quirks of each style while friendly, well-informed staff walk you through the brewing process-sometimes pointing out the scent of roasted malt or citrus hops.All year long, Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant throws lively beer festivals, tap takeovers, and other gatherings for fellow beer lovers.These events bring in guest breweries, pour rare limited-edition beers, and host lively themed nights.If you’re new to Belgian beer culture, it’s an easy place to start exploring-sip a golden Tripel while learning about centuries-old brewing traditions and the country’s rich beer history.The staff at Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant know their beers inside and out, and they’ll happily chat with you to find something that matches your taste.They’re always glad to recommend a favorite brew and share their knowledge of Belgian beer culture.Whether you want a quick pint, a long evening with friends, or a deep dive into the intricacies of a Trappist ale, the café offers a warm, easygoing space where experts and first-timers feel equally at home.Loved by locals and tourists alike, it’s become a must-stop for anyone wandering Ghent’s cobblestone streets.You’ll get a true taste of Belgian beer culture here, yet it’s just as welcoming for first-timers curious about brewing traditions.Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant sits at Bierkant 1, 9000 Ghent, right on the Leie River in the city’s historic center, where the water glints in the afternoon sun.Trams and buses stop nearby, making it easy to reach without a car.You can stroll to major sights like the Korenmarkt, the stone towers of Gravensteen Castle, and the soaring spire of St. Bavo’s Cathedral, all just minutes away.Right in the city center, it’s easy to reach on foot or by bike, perfect for exploring Ghent at your own pace.Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant is a classic Belgian beer café, pouring an impressive range of local and international brews in a warm, historic space.With a beer list that runs deep, a cozy glow in the air, and a true devotion to Belgian brewing, it’s the kind of place you can’t skip if you want to taste the heart of that tradition.Whether you love beer or just want a quiet spot to sip something cold, Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant welcomes you with the cozy glow of wooden tables and a menu brimming with Belgian brews.
