Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht
Experience Utrecht's vibrant bar scene within the awe-inspiring, historic walls of a former church, boasting an unparalleled beer selection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Utrecht's vibrant bar scene within the awe-inspiring, historic walls of a former church, boasting an unparalleled beer selection.
"This Belgian beer café in an old church is a must-visit for its atmosphere and incredible beer choices!"
Visit on a Monday
Consider a Monday lunch for a potentially less crowded experience.
Soak in the History
Take time to appreciate the original church elements like the organ and statues.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Belgian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+31 30 236 7876
Address
Achter Clarenburg 6A, 3511 JJ Utrecht, Netherlands
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Church Ambiance
Dine and drink within the stunning, preserved interior of a former 19th-century church, complete with an organ.
Extensive Belgian Beer Selection
Explore an 'insane' selection of Belgian and Dutch beers, with knowledgeable staff to guide your choice.
Delectable Bar Snacks
Savor crispy bitterballen and other satisfying bar snacks that perfectly complement your drinks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit on a Monday
Consider a Monday lunch for a potentially less crowded experience.
Soak in the History
Take time to appreciate the original church elements like the organ and statues.
Extensive Beer Options
Don't shy away from the beer menu, even if you're not a typical beer drinker.
Check for Reservations
Weekends can be busy, so reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit on a Monday
Consider a Monday lunch for a potentially less crowded experience.
Soak in the History
Take time to appreciate the original church elements like the organ and statues.
Extensive Beer Options
Don't shy away from the beer menu, even if you're not a typical beer drinker.
Check for Reservations
Weekends can be busy, so reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about the unique atmosphere of this former church, coupled with an impressive selection of Belgian beers and delicious bar snacks like bitterballen. While many praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, some reviews note inconsistencies in service and suggest that the food menu could be improved.
"Wonderful converted church into a Belgium Bar. Great selection of beers. Great atmosphere. Good crowds. Staff are friendly and helpful, and work well when the bar is full! Service was prompt and the bar snacks were very good."
David Kumar
"Decent selection of classic good Belgian beers.
Some waiters were really friendly and professionals, others I think they were looking for shortcuts, but overall nice experience nothing too bad.
I loved the place inside, drinking a beer there was really good. I loved that each beer had his own correct paired glass. One of the nice waiter also stated that they didn't have any Guinness anymore, so suggested to have another stout; then corrected himself saying that they didn't have any glasses for it, so this is definitely a positive point for their honesty and professionalism.
Food wise I think they can improve, my salad was everything but a salad.
Overall would be a 4/5, but I didn't like the approach towards some people.
Place inside was almost empty, we were there for lunch, most tables were reserved for the evening. Those entering were first suggested to sit outside or in a not reserved table, even if more than 6 hours were between current time and the one marked on the table. I also saw one poor guy that just wanted to see the tap beers at the counter, friendly being sent back outside with the reason that tap beers were marked on the menu. He just wanted to have a look 😅
Then when a tourist group came in with their guide, they could just roam around taking pictures and videos while talking, like it's not a restaurant. It's fine and understandable, the place is very beautiful and probably with rich history, but it was funny to see the difference."
Matteo
"If you’re visiting Utrecht and craving some good craft beer, Olivier is definitely the place to go. The bar is located in an old church, and you can still see many of the original elements inside — it’s a really unique and atmospheric setting for a beer bar.
The beer selection is honestly insane. They have a huge number of beers on tap and even more bottled options, with something for every taste — from classic Belgian styles to more modern craft brews. It’s almost overwhelming how much choice there is, in the best possible way.
It can get pretty busy, especially on weekends, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation if you want to be sure of a spot. Highly recommend for any beer lover passing through Utrecht!"
Tom Bouwhuis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is uniquely housed in a former 19th-century church, featuring preserved ecclesiastical elements like an organ and statues, creating a remarkable atmosphere.
Yes, the café boasts an extensive and 'insane' selection of Belgian and Dutch beers, offering something for every taste.
Bitterballen and other bar snacks are highly recommended. Some reviews also mention good mussels and fries.
It's advisable to make a reservation, especially on weekends, as the café can get quite busy.
Yes, the unique ambiance and availability of board games make it a romantic and engaging spot for a date.
Some diners have noted inconsistencies in service and that the food quality can vary. During summer, it can also get warm inside.
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Olivier Utrecht offers frequenters the chance to sample exemplary Belgian cuisine in the hallowed confines of the former Maria Minor church. The restaurant is modeled on the traditional Belgian beer cafe and the rich history the building’s architecture is matched only by the splendor of the Belgian food offered on Olivier’s exciting lunch and dinner menus. All main course are served with traditional Belgian “Vlaamse frites” and mayonnaise.
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This popular central eatery boasts a spectacular interior setting in the form of a restored church dating from 1860, complete with organ pipes. The Belgian-influenced food ranges from hearty stews to steaks and seafood, and is backed up by a similarly impressive beer list that also comes mainly from the Netherlands' southern neighbor—simpler dishes including croque monsieurs are served at lunch.
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The facade of the Belgisch Biercafé Olivier looks like a 19th-century townhouse, but inside you’ll find a clandestine church from the 1640s, built by Catholics to continue practising in secret after the Reformation. Facing heavy upkeep costs, it was turned into a cafe in the 2000s that specialises in Belgian and Dutch beers. The new owners retained the building’s historic charm by restoring original ecclesiastical elements and updating the interior with dark wood panelling and soft lighting.
61 leukste romantische uitjes en dingen om te doen in Utrecht
Hier wordt van maandag tot en met zondag geborreld alsof er een wereldrecord verbroken moet worden. En over records verbreken gesproken… Vraag een bordspel aan de bediening en verbreek samen een record met een potje ouderwets Jenga. Ideaal voor als het in het begin nog lastig is om een gesprek op gang te houden tijdens jullie afspraakje in Utrecht.
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Last but not least is Belgisch Biercafe Olivier, located at a very special location. You can find this cafe in an old church!. Even though the place is not my personal favourite due to the acoustic, number of visitors and their focus on Belgium beers (I love to explore new beers), you should have seen this place at least once.
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Bourgondische gastvrijheid, goed comfortfood en heel veel speciaalbier: daar draait het om bij Belgisch Biercafé Olivier. Elke maand is er ook een wisselend bier van de maand – genoeg reden dus om eens in de zoveel tijd iets nieuws te proberen.Google Maps: Achter Clarenburg 6A, 3511 JJ. View this post on Instagram
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This bar was constructed within an old church, which gives a tremendous amount of character to the place. The bar's owners made every effort to preserve the authenticity of the church. You can still find a grand pipe organ and several Catholic statues within the bar's interior.
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In de categorie altijd goed: Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht. Gevestigd in een voormalige schuilkerk, en aan het interieur is weinig veranderd. Hier kun je terecht voor een Belgisch pintje, maar ze hebben ook een fijne uitgebreide kaart met gerechten van onze zuiderboeren.
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At Belgian beer café Olivier, you can choose a beer from the extensive beer menu, while standing underneath an immense organ. Very close to Vredenburg and Hoog Catharijne you can eat and drink in Olivier’s church. Really cool place to hang out for a while!
The best tips in Utrecht from local guide Lucas
Nowadays it is a Belgium beer cafe but before this used to be a hidden church which I will tell you about on my tour!. Here you can have all kinds of bears and a good meal. Also, have a look at the amazing ceiling and church organ that is still there.
Fun cocktail/beer bars near Utrecht centraal : Utrecht
For cocktails I would recommend: Behind Bars, The streetfood Club, Rum Club For beers : Olivier or Kafe Belgie. I only know for sure that TSFC, Rum Club and Olivier serve food, not quite sure about the rest, maybe it’s better to check their websites
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They’ve tried to hold on to as many features of the church as possible. Olivier serves next to lots of different beer also a mix of Belgian and Dutch food for lunch, dinner or fingerfood. The pub is usually crowded, since it’s a popular place.
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Net achter Hoog Catharijne vind je één van de mooiste cafés van Utrecht: Olivier. Het Belgisch biercafé is al een aantal keer uitgeroepen tot mooiste café van Nederland en dat is niet zo vreemd. Het café is namelijk gevestigd in een oude kerk.
Dé 74 Beste Restaurants in Utrecht (2024)
In dit Belgische Biercafé geniet je van heerlijke Belgische gerechten met een lekker bijpassend biertje. Met hun uitgebreide bierkaart kunnen de toppers in de bediening je een passend bier-spijs advies geven.
Alternative Utrecht: Your Guide to Utrecht, Netherlands
Olivier – if you want something really unique, check out this old church that has been turned into a Belgian Beer cafe. P.s keep an eye out for the resident cat, he’s very cute!
Cafés and terraces in Utrecht
Located in a gorgeous old church with a unique atmosphere, Olivier has a vast range of special Belgian beers to enjoy. Address: Achter Clarenburg 6A
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit