I have an upcoming trip to Brussels but it will be a quick one. I'll land about 9:15am (after flying all night from the states) and get to my hotel near Grand Place. That will be Friday May 5. I'll also have Saturday May 6 before I head further afield Sunday morning. I'd like to get to both Cantillon (within walking distance of my hotel) and Lambik-O-Droom, but I'm concerned about crazy crowds. How do you (those with experience) anticipate things, and how would you approach this? I understand Saturdays have been quite busy at Cantillon and that with TdG on Saturday to boot, Lambik-O-Droom might be crazy. I don't mind crowds terribly but I would like to be able to hang out and enjoy some beers on premises in a relaxed fashion. Not concerned about beer to go so much. Thanks in advance for thoughts and guidance!
I would suggest going for 3F on Friday and Cantillon on Saturday as 3F is on TdG but Cantillon isn't. My guess is that most people flying in for it will try to hit Cantillon before.
I've been to TdG twice (not going this year, but I'll be in Brussels the week before) and 3F gets absolutely slammed. That was at the production facility but if you want a little more peace avoid the place Saturday. Cantillon will be busy all weekend but if you visit at opening either day I think you will be fine. It will get crazy towards mid-day and the afternoon so plan accordingly.
Just don't forget to try the other gueuzes while you're in country. Search around this forum & other sources for places with wider selections -- there are some some spots w/good selection near where you're staying (Poechenellekelder, Fleur en Papier Doré, Brocante, Moeder Lambic for example).
FYI. 3F will only be serving their lambic, geuze and maybe A&G during the TdG. If you want to drink from their cellar list it will not be possible Saturday or Sunday.
Thanks for the heads-up. I may drop the visit entirely and just hang in Brussels because I'm there for such a short time (fri morn-sun morn). Visit Cantillon and some of the other recommended spots in town, go see the old masters, etc.
