Alsemberg (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Beersel’s municipal government has enforced stricter regulations on Cult Café in Alsemberg, triggering public protests and criticism from patrons and locals.
Now, at 22:00, the terrace must be empty, and no more than 40 people are allowed to sit there. The actions were taken in response to a local resident’s complaint.
In 2017, Cult Café, formerly known as Alzenbar, opened as the bar of Cultuur Centrum De Meent. Although the establishment became a well-liked gathering spot, the concession was not renewed.
Gert Ghesquiere, who had previously owned café De Vissers, took over the establishment in 2022 and gave it its current name. It is currently Alsemberg’s only surviving café.
Many locals don’t agree with the new regulations. A petition to lift the limitations was signed by over 1,000 people. They think Cult Café has a significant impact on the Brabrant community.
Owner Gert Ghesquiere is pleasantly surprised by the petition.
“It was started by customers, not by me, and it is receiving a lot of support. The lawsuit has yet to be heard, the judge had asked an expert to come by. I am not familiar with that report, but I hope they will also take the petition into account.
In addition, I ask the municipality to withdraw the unilateral decision, which was not imposed, of the limited number of places and the early closure.”
On Thursday, the municipal council will discuss the matter. After that, the city council will react. The proprietor and the locals who are worried are hoping for a solution that would let the café stay the same.
How will the new rules impact the overall customer experience at the Cult cafe?
The terrace’s early closure reduces the amount of time patrons may spend enjoying the outdoor area, which is frequently a major component of the café’s social and cultural appeal. This may lessen the laid-back, social atmosphere that customers enjoy.
Consumers who visit the café in the evening to mingle or take part in cultural events can feel pressured to leave earlier than planned, which could lower customer satisfaction and discourage return business.
Customer experience principles state that a friendly and laid-back atmosphere encourages good communication and strong emotional bonds between employees and clients. Limiting patio hours can make it harder to find these “moments of magic” that increase satisfaction and loyalty.
