Yeah, this place is as good as it gets, because there's not many places (even in the chocolate…read moremecca of Belgium) that mix the concept of swank wine bar with artisanal chocolate haven. Alex & Alex does just this in a cosy, yet chic, cafe environment next to the sablon where the "big boys" of chocolate dominate (think: Marcolini, Godiva, Neuhaus, etc). In spite of the competition, Alex & Alex is worth checking out as it offers clientele the opportunity to pair handmade confections by chocolatier Frederic Blondeel with glasses (trust me, you'll have more than one) of champagne. If you're not into bubbles there's tea and coffee along with other cold/hot drinks. What I enjoy most about Alex & Alex is that it's less busy than the upmarket joints located across the street (mind you I adore Pierre Marcolini and think it's worth stopping in to grab a box of their macarons or 85% Madagascar dark), the environment is always inviting, and I always find something unique that I sure as hell would not have found at one of the more mainstream chocolatiers. Another big selling point is that Frederic Blondeel has several dairy/soy free options so you don't have to look on with envy as your friends snap up a handful of pralines to indulge in. For more: http://fortheintolerants.com/?p=5078

A new wineshop venue just off the Place Sablon. A friendly welcome from the knowledgable owner,…read morePinto, who is passionate about her wines, all sourced directly from the winemakers in Italy and Spain. Tastings are a delight - try her early evening tastings Thursdays and Fridays, and make sure you sample the Tuscan charcuterie and cheeses. Prices are surprisingly affordable and certainly good value for money.

Cool little place to sample some spirits, some beers available as well, nice clean look in the shop…read morearea, rear shop area with windows overlooking a canal, and a small, secluded basement level terrace right on the water. Bathroom was ok, located on the second floor. Only one employee while we were there, but she was very friendly. Good for a quick stop /break.

I actually discovered that this place is located in the only wooden building in Ghent. Apparently…read moreall of the wooden buildings, except this one, were pulled down after the Great Fire of London (which goes to show how old this building actually is). However, the store is far from old, rather it is a specialist retailer of alcohol. While he does have a small variety of beers, it is the spirits that seem to be the focus here. The owner is incredibly knowledgeable, and also incredibly chatty. Don't expect to get trappist beers here, namely because they are sold everywhere else - he is only interested in rare beers, namely craft or micro-brews. He does have a small outdoor area downstairs but there are only three tables, so it can get a little cramped. Certainly a place to check out, especially if you like rare and exotic alcohol.

From the owner: Nos offrons des abonnements découvertes de vins Bios principalement. Nous organisons également un…read moreapéro mensuel chaque premier Jeudi du mois. Maitres mots: Vins - Découverte - Bio - Vignerons indépendants .