The Orangerie, an Art Nouveau garden hidden in the heart of Brussels
- Mar 11
- 3 min read
Sheltered from the bustle of the city, behind the listed façades of De Ultieme Hallucinatie, a timeless place is revealed. Somewhere between a light-filled conservatory, a welcoming brasserie, and a heritage jewel box, the Orangerie offers an experience where architecture, history, and the Belgian art of living come together with effortless joy.
A covered garden steeped in history
As the main stage of the brasserie, the Orangerie creates the true atmosphere of an indoor garden, while retaining the comfort of a sheltered space. Its name naturally echoes both the layout of the site and the original wish to see magnificent orange trees flourish there. It is also the only recent structural modification to the building: created in 1981 by roofing over the house’s garden, it incorporates the original rockwork as well as the former Winter Garden gallery. It also provides the link between the front part of the building and the Music Pavilion, built in the mid-19th century, which stands at the edge of the summer terrace. The structure combines steel beams with wooden panelling, while the current bar, enhanced by its period Art Nouveau stained-glass windows, bears direct witness to the transformation of this former gallery.
A place for living and celebrating
The Cohn Donnay Hotel that houses it is, moreover, the only listed Art Nouveau townhouse to accommodate both a bar and a restaurant. The spirit of the place is firmly rooted in the Belgian art of living, centred on simple yet refined brasserie cuisine, wines drawn from our own terroirs, and beers that are a source of national pride.
The atmosphere of the Orangerie evolves throughout the day and naturally engages in dialogue with the inner terrace. The whole evokes a luminous greenhouse, furnished with early 20th-century railway bench seating. Crafted in 1910 for the Belgian railways by architect and designer Émile Van de Velde, these benches run along the rockwork and form a succession of intimate alcoves, ideal for tables of four to six guests. As evening falls, soft lighting invites shared meals and drinks, while in summer the wide French doors, thrown open, transform the Orangerie into an unexpected Art Nouveau oasis in the heart of the city. The most informal part of the ensemble it forms with the listed Art Nouveau salons at the front of the house, it is also distinguished by its large central table, which can accommodate up to 24 guests, perfect for celebrating special occasions with family or friends.On Saturday afternoons, the space finally comes alive to the rhythm of jazz concerts.
A place open to all
More than an address, the Orangerie affirms an identity built on encounters, sharing, and accessibility. The true entry ticket to enjoy this timeless atmosphere depends less on the thickness of one’s wallet than on the curiosity to discover a place steeped in stories.The Orangerie is thus a place for everyone, Brussels locals and international visitors alike, drawn in by its unique setting and timeless charm.
All that remains is to push open the door and let yourself be surprised.
Whether for a bright lunch, dinner by the light of the stained-glass windows or a simple drink away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels, the Orangerie welcomes everyone with the same simplicity. A place to discover, and perhaps to adopt...
All the mysteries of the Ultieme Hallucinatie
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