Koks&Tales

Imagine a place where the art of mixology meets the atmosphere of the "roaring twenties." The cocktail bar Koks & Tales is a cozy establishment in the heart of Hasselt, which has become a true discovery for connoisseurs of high-quality drinks in a country like Belgium.

Koks & Tales. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The bar's interior is designed in a speakeasy style, featuring decor from the renowned Dims Interieur studio. Golden lighting, soft velvet elements, and rows of illuminated bottles create a stylish yet relaxed setting. Here, classics harmoniously blend with creativity, turning an ordinary evening into a small adventure.

The establishment is famous for its innovative recipes and the skill of its bartenders, who turn the preparation of every cocktail into a captivating show. Koks & Tales is more than just a bar; it's a space for socializing and relaxation, where attention to detail and hospitality come first.

When planning a visit to Koks & Tales, it's helpful to have the venue's exact coordinates at hand. The bar is located on one of the charming streets in the city center, making it easily accessible on foot. Currently, it is recommended to use official international directories or social media to contact the management.

The main reason to visit this establishment is to taste unique signature cocktails. We recommend trying the house drinks featuring the secret ingredient Big Daddy’s Falernum. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the bar offers exquisite mocktails that are just as complex in flavor as the classic mixes.

Be sure to take a seat at the bar to watch the professional mixologists at work. The local bartenders, including masters with experience in London's top restaurants, turn the mixing process into a spectacular performance. The drinks are often served with original snacks, such as crispy bacon chips or fresh berries, which complement the flavor of your cocktail.

An evening at Koks & Tales is perfect for a quiet conversation to the sounds of jazz music. If you want to enjoy the atmosphere without the hustle and bustle, try to arrive early, especially on weekends when the place fills up very quickly. It's a great spot to feel the rhythm of the city at night or to go on a romantic date.

Finding Koks & Tales is easy, as it is located in the heart of Hasselt at Schrijnwerkersstraat 9. The bar is within walking distance of iconic spots like the Grote Markt and Torenplein. Its central location makes it easy to include a visit here in a walking tour of the city.

For those who prefer public transport, the most convenient option is the bus to the Hasselt Station perron 3 stop. From the station, you can walk to the bar in just a few minutes while enjoying the architecture of the old town. The well-developed transport network makes the trip very comfortable from anywhere in the city.

If you are traveling by taxi or rental car, there are parking zones in the city center, although finding a free spot during peak hours can be difficult. The convenient location allows you to combine a bar visit with exploring nearby art spaces or shopping districts, such as Quartier Bleu.

The history of Koks & Tales began in a rather unusual way: the project originally existed as a pop-up bar. The establishment moved through various locations across Hasselt before finding a permanent home in the historic city center. This nomadic experience helped the founders refine their concept and build a circle of loyal fans even before the official opening of the permanent site.

The soul and main visionary behind the bar is Rob Bismans. Before launching his own project, he worked as an assistant sommelier at Gordon Ramsay's famous Pétrus restaurant in London. The experience gained in world-renowned establishments allowed Rob to bring the highest standards of service and an uncompromising approach to ingredient quality to his own bar.

Thanks to its unique atmosphere and the skill of its team, Koks & Tales was included in the prestigious list of "150 Bars You Need to Visit Before You Die." In 2017, the interior underwent a major renovation, resulting in the bar's current Art Deco appearance, finally cementing its status as one of the best cocktail spots in Belgium.

Today, this establishment is a recognized hub for mixology enthusiasts. Consistently high ratings over the years confirm that a drive for innovation combined with respect for the classics is a recipe for success appreciated by both locals and tourists alike.

To fully appreciate the skill of the mixologists and enjoy a couple of cocktails with light snacks, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This time is sufficient to soak in the atmosphere and try a few signature items from the menu.

If your goal is to spend the evening in long conversation with friends or to have a proper rest after a busy day of sightseeing, you should set aside 2–3 hours for your visit. The cozy interior and pleasant music encourage staying longer and ordering a few sets of signature drinks.

The venue opens its doors to guests in the afternoon, which is convenient for both an early aperitif and late-night gatherings. Please note that the bar is usually closed on Monday and Tuesday, so plan your visit from Wednesday to Sunday.

The working hours are as follows: from Wednesday to Saturday, the bar welcomes visitors from 15:00 to 01:00, and on Sunday, it closes slightly earlier at 22:00. However, before heading there, it is recommended to check the official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date schedule.

A visit to the cocktail bar can be perfectly combined with exploring other interesting places in the area. Hasselt is a city with a rich history and charming streets where architectural monuments and cultural sites are found at every turn. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to better feel the authentic spirit of this Belgian corner.

Right next to the venue are historic buildings such as the old town hall and former monastery buildings. Below are some interesting sites located within walking distance or a short drive from the bar: