The Best Places to Eat in Antwerp

When it comes to food, Antwerp is a city of endless possibilities. This Belgian city is the perfect destination for foodies, offering delicious treats and unique local favorites. From classic Belgian dishes to international cuisines, there’s something for everyone in Antwerp. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a quick bite, here are the best places to eat in Antwerp.

Traditional Belgian Dishes

If you’re in the mood for some classic Belgian dishes, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Antwerp. The city is home to some of the best traditional restaurants in Belgium, offering hearty favourites such as Flemish beef stew, waterzooi, and stoemp. For a truly authentic experience, head to ‘t Zilte, a cosy restaurant in the city centre serving up homemade Belgian dishes.

The city’s numerous beer cafés are also perfect for sampling some of Belgium’s finest ales. Kriek, a sour cherry beer, is especially popular in Antwerp, as are the Trappist ales, brewed by monks in abbeys around the country. With over 200 varieties to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a more unusual dining experience, head to Frituur Max, an old-fashioned Belgian chip shop. Here you can sample some of the country’s most iconic street food, such as Belgian frites (French fries) and mitraillettes (sandwiches filled with frites).

International Cuisines

Antwerp is also home to a wide range of international restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, French, or Mexican food, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds. For Italian food, head to Pazzo, a cosy trattoria serving up classic dishes such as pizza, pasta, and risotto. For French cuisine, try Coq d’Or, a charming restaurant located in the city centre.

If Mexican food is more your thing, you can’t go wrong with La Cantina. This popular restaurant offers up a range of delicious tacos, quesadillas, and fajitas. Or, for something a little different, head to Suzy Wong, a stylish restaurant serving up Asian-fusion dishes with a Belgian twist.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Seafood Restaurants

Antwerp is especially well-known for its seafood restaurants, offering up some of the freshest and most delicious fish dishes in the city. Head to De Kombuis, a popular seafood restaurant located on the banks of the river Scheldt. Here you can sample a range of dishes, from grilled fish to mussels and fries.

For a more upscale experience, try Restaurant Romeinse, a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant located in the heart of the city. Here you can sample a range of exquisite dishes, from scallops to lobster and crab.

For something a little more laid-back, head to De Klaverij, a seafood shack located on the waterfront. Here you can sample some of the freshest fish in the city, all washed down with a glass of crisp Belgian beer.

Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants

Antwerp is also home to a number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, offering up delicious plant-based dishes. For something a little more traditional, try Aarstiderne, a cosy café serving up classic vegetarian dishes such as falafel and veggie burgers. For something a little more exotic, head to Vegetus, a vegan restaurant offering up dishes such as tempeh tacos and vegan ramen.

For something a little more indulgent, try Le Pain Quotidien, a popular chain of vegan bakeries. Here you can sample a range of delicious cakes, pastries, and sandwiches, all made with organic ingredients.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Street Food

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, Antwerp has plenty of street food stalls offering up delicious treats. For something a little more exotic, try Baracca, a popular street food stall serving up Vietnamese-style street food. Or, for something a little more indulgent, head to Fritland, an old-fashioned Belgian chip shop offering up some of the best frites in the city.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can’t go wrong with Le Grand Marche, a popular food market offering up a range of delicious cakes, pastries, and chocolates. Or, for something a little more unusual, head to the city’s numerous food trucks, offering up dishes such as gourmet hamburgers and nacho fries.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Fine Dining

For a more upscale dining experience, head to one of Antwerp’s many fine dining restaurants. For something a little more traditional, head to Hof van Cleve, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up classic Belgian dishes such as Flemish beef stew and waterzooi. Or, for something a little more exotic, try The Jane, a stylish restaurant offering up dishes such as seared tuna and quail eggs.

If you’re in the mood for some Italian food, try La Villa, a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant serving up dishes such as risotto and pasta. Or, for French cuisine, head to Le Cirque, a stylish restaurant located in the heart of the city. Here you can sample a range of delicious dishes, from steak tartare to beef bourguignon.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Cafés and Bakeries

Antwerp is also home to a range of cafés and bakeries, perfect for a quick bite to eat or a morning coffee. Head to De Markten, a popular café located in the city centre. Here you can sample some of the city’s best coffee and pastries.

For a more unique experience, head to Frites Atelier, a gourmet fry shop offering up a range of delicious fries. Or, for something a little more indulgent, try Le Pain Quotidien, a popular chain of vegan bakeries offering up some of the best cakes and pastries in the city.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Bars and Pubs

Antwerp is also home to a range of bars and pubs, offering up some of the best beers in the city. For an authentic Belgian beer experience, head to ‘t Zilte, a cosy beer café offering up a range of local ales. Or, for something a little more exotic, head to De Laatste Kruimel, a popular beer bar offering up a range of craft beers.

For something a little more laid-back, try ‘t Spijker, a classic pub offering up an extensive selection of beers and snacks. Or, for something a little more lively, head to Het Elfde Gebod, a popular bar located in the city centre.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Desserts

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Antwerp has plenty of options. Head to Suikerrui, a popular dessert shop offering up a range of homemade cakes and pastries. Or, for something a little more unusual, try Chocolaterie De Schatkamer, a chocolate shop offering up unique creations such as chocolate bars with Belgian beer.

For something a little more indulgent, head to La Chocolatiere, a popular café offering up a range of delicious hot chocolates and milkshakes. Or, for something a little more traditional, try De Laatste Kruimel, a popular bakery offering up classic Belgian treats such as waffles and speculoos.

No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to tantalise your taste buds in Antwerp.

Conclusion

When it comes to food, Antwerp is a city of endless possibilities. From classic Belgian dishes to international cuisines, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a quick bite, Antwerp has plenty of options. So, what are you waiting for? Get out and explore the city’s culinary delights.