Little pub outside Brussels still best in world, says Ratebeer

It's only open on Sundays and its decor has barely changed in 175 years - but a tiny pub on the outskirts of Brussels has been named the best in the world for a fourth year running.

The renowned In de Verzekering tegen de Grote Dorst (In the Insurance against Great Thirst), in Eizeringen in Flemish Brabant, came top in this year's international rankings established by Ratebeer.com. Ten other Belgian bars made the top 50.

The bar specialises in the lambic-based beers for which the Pajottenland is famous. Until recently it was only open on Sunday mornings (and after funerals), but since last year's 175th anniversary, the opening hours have been extended to Sundays 10.00-20.00.

RateBeer has given out annual awards since 2002, based on millions of reviews from users all over the world. Three Brussels destinations made the top 50 - Cantillon brewery and Chez Moeder Lambic (Saint-Gilles and Place Fontainas).

The other Belgian addresses in the ranking are:

Kulminator, Antwerp (6th)
De Heeren van Liedekercke, Denderleeuw (13th),
Het Oude Schooltje van de Struise Brouwers, Oostvleteren (14th)
’t Brugs Beertje, Bruges (36th)
3 Fonteinen Lambik-O-Droom, Beersel (42nd)
Brouwerij Alvinne, Moen (46th)
Beergium, Le Roeulx (47th)