Rue des Brasseurs 46, Namur

In the heart of Namur lies Botanical by Alfonse. Tucked away on a once dark and deserted street, this cocktail bar stands as the pinnacle of Belgian mixology, a testament to the relentless dedication of its founders, Valentin and Charlie. Their love journey began over a decade ago, fueled by a shared love for each other and an unwavering passion for cocktails. In 2020, they solidified their bond by exchanging vows, marking not only a milestone in their personal lives but also in the story of their beloved bar which they had opened in 2018. What sets Botanical by Alfonse apart is not just the expertly crafted drinks or the chic ambiance, but the heart and soul that Valentin and Charlie infuse into every aspect of their establishment. From the meticulously designed interiors to the carefully curated menu, their love for their craft shines through. One step into Botanical by Alfonse and you're greeted with an array of aromas, each more tantalizing than the last. The bar boasts a basement filled with state-of-the-art bartending equipment, a playground for Valentin's creativity and innovation. Having honed his skills in an inspiration to world-renowned bartender Rémy Savage, Valentin brings a unique perspective to the craft, blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Their style of drinks is a reflection of their personalities—straightforward, flavor-forward, and minimalistic. Each cocktail tells a story, a symphony of flavors carefully orchestrated to tantalize the taste buds and ignite the senses. Their recent feature in the World 50 Best Discoveries is a testament to their dedication and talent, earning them a place among only 5 cocktail bars in Belgium to have made this list. It's a recognition they humbly accept, grateful for the opportunity to share their passion with the world. Reflecting on their journey, Valentin and Charlie took to Instagram to share their story, a poignant reminder of the power of dreams and perseverance. From humble beginnings in a handmade renovated cocktail caravan in 2016, to gracing the pages of prestigious lists, their journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion and dedication. "We started from nothing," they wrote, "but we kept on dreaming." At Botanical by Alfonse, every drink is a celebration of love, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. It's more than just a cocktail bar; it's a testament to the human spirit and the belief that with enough determination and love, anything is possible. So, if you find yourself in Namur, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to Botanical by Alfonse. Let Valentin and Charlie take you on a journey through flavors and emotions, and experience firsthand the magic of their love story, crafted in cocktails.