The recent passing of Jacky Paquet, the beloved café owner of Les Nouvelles Caves d’Artois in Anderlecht, marks the end of an era for Brussels locals. Known for his unwavering support of Union Saint-Gilloise, Jacky was a fixture in the city’s football and social scene. His café, just steps from the Aumale metro station, was one of the last places that truly captured the spirit of old Brussels. News of his death was confirmed on 2025-08-12 01:58:00, leaving many in the community reflecting on his legacy.
- Jacky Paquet embodied old Brussels café culture
- Paquet managed Les Nouvelles Caves d’Artois 36 years
- He supported Union football club lifelong
- Café survived neighborhood challenges and violence
- Paquet witnessed Union's historic 2023 title win
- Local news confirmed Jacky Paquet's death
For 36 years, Jacky stood behind the bar, welcoming regulars despite the challenges the neighbourhood faced, including periods of drug-related violence. His loyalty to Union Saint-Gilloise never wavered, even during the club’s tough times in lower divisions. How did a café owner so deeply rooted in Anderlecht become such a passionate Unionist? And what does his story tell US about community resilience in Brussels?
Jacky’s story leads us to understand more about the local culture and the role of football in uniting people across the city. Here’s a closer look at his impact and what it means for Brussels today.
Why does Jacky’s legacy resonate so strongly in Brussels? It’s about more than just football or a local pub; it’s about community identity and resilience. His café was a safe haven amid neighbourhood struggles, and his dedication to Union symbolised loyalty and hope.
- Jacky served Anderlecht’s community for over three decades despite local challenges.
- He remained a steadfast Union Saint-Gilloise supporter through ups and downs.
- His café was a rare place preserving old Brussels’ atmosphere near a changing urban landscape.
- His story highlights football’s power to foster local pride and unity.
As Brussels continues to evolve, remembering figures like Jacky reminds us of the importance of preserving local heritage and supporting community hubs. Will new generations carry forward this spirit? Only time will tell, but the legacy of Les Nouvelles Caves d’Artois and its legendary owner will inspire many to keep that tradition alive.
