Review of Brasserie Benelux
James Anderson
This is a quintessential, old-world Luxembourg tavern. Astonishingly, an indoor smoking chamber is still maintained, although it's not uncommon to see a multitude of individuals, including the establishment's management, opting to stand outside the designated area to enjoy their cigarettes. Essentially, the entire interior carries the scent of a cigarette butt container, and the smoke-filled environment can make it challenging to breathe comfortably. Moreover, the constant permeation of smoke contributes to an atmosphere that is not only saturated with the odor of burnt tobacco but also palpably hazy, making it rather stifling for those not accustomed to such conditions. The lingering smell of stale smoke pervades every corner of the establishment, making it nearly impossible to avoid. The management's participation in the smoking activities surprisingly takes place outside the designated smoking area, further contributing to the heavy tobacco-laden atmosphere throughout the bar. The resultant perpetual smoky environment makes it a tough task for non-smokers to comfortably spend time within the premises. The presence of the indoor smoking room, which is a rare sight in contemporary society, adds a layer of nostalgia to the place. Despite this, the constant smoking outside of this room by many patrons, including the bar's own management, exacerbates the smoky conditions within the bar. The enveloping smoke results in a suffocating atmosphere, making it a struggle to breathe freely in the interior of this traditionally styled Luxembourg bar.
Date of experience: March 17, 2024