The Best Restaurants in Antwerp

Housed in a former military chapel, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant is widely considered Antwerp’s culinary crown jewel. Chef Nick Bril creates artistic dishes that balance classic techniques with contemporary flair. The stunning interior features stained glass windows, an open kitchen, and a DJ booth that sets the perfect ambiance.

The Upper Room offers a full tasting menu experience, while the more casual Lower Room serves à la carte options. Both showcase seasonal ingredients with meticulous attention to detail. Reservations are essential and should be made months in advance.

This intimate restaurant offers a refined dining experience without pretension. Chef Michaël Rewers crafts terroir-based cuisine that honors traditional Belgian flavors while incorporating modern techniques. The menu changes regularly to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients.

Signature dishes include their perfectly executed grey shrimp croquettes and the poached cod with white asparagus. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes this an ideal choice for both special occasions and casual fine dining experiences.

Set in Antwerp’s trendy meat-packing district, Veranda offers a seasonal tasting menu in an understated post-industrial setting. Chef Davy Schellemans creates colorful, complex dishes that showcase the best local ingredients with international influences.

The restaurant’s focus on natural wines complements the innovative food perfectly. The five-course tasting menu changes frequently, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit. The relaxed atmosphere makes high-end dining approachable and enjoyable.

Translating to “The Grandmother,” De Bomma serves the kind of hearty, comforting food your Belgian grandmother would make—if you had one. The walls are adorned with photographs of customers’ actual grandmothers, creating a warm, nostalgic atmosphere.

Their stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew) is legendary—tender beef slow-cooked in dark Belgian beer until it melts in your mouth. Served with crispy frites and mayonnaise, it’s Belgian comfort food at its finest. Other traditional favorites include vol-au-vent and waterzooi (creamy chicken stew).

This cozy, intimate restaurant offers traditional Belgian cuisine in a charming setting. The two-level space features a small downstairs dining room and a loft-like upper level accessed by a narrow staircase, creating a magical, secret attic atmosphere.

The menu focuses on Belgian classics with a refined touch. Their grilled meats, particularly the ribs, are popular choices, while seafood lovers should try their perfectly prepared fish dishes with lemon, capers, and herbs. The candlelit tables and flower arrangements add to the romantic ambiance.

While not traditional Belgian cuisine, Hoffy’s represents an important part of Antwerp’s culinary heritage. This kosher restaurant and deli in the city’s Diamond Quarter is run by the three Hoffman brothers, who have elevated Jewish cuisine to an art form.

The menu features beautifully presented Jewish dishes from various traditions. From perfect matzo ball soup to slow-cooked cholent and delicate blintzes, everything is prepared with care and attention to detail. The generous portions ensure no one leaves hungry.

Located in Antwerp’s harbor district with views of the iconic MAS museum, Felix Food Klub offers a trendy dining experience in a contemporary setting. The restaurant features art installations and modern design elements that complement its creative menu.

The diverse menu draws inspiration from global cuisines, with standout dishes including tuna tartare with avocado and yuzu, perfectly grilled steaks, and innovative vegetable preparations. The harborside patio is ideal for summer dining with spectacular views.

This hidden gem offers a casual French bistro experience with Belgian influences. Tucked away on a quiet side street near the harbor, L’ilot specializes in small plates designed for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience.

The menu changes regularly but might include delights like roasted tomatoes with basil aioli, fresh cantaloupe with crispy prosciutto, and perfectly prepared seafood dishes. The knowledgeable staff provide excellent wine recommendations to complement your meal.

For excellent Asian cuisine in Antwerp, Zaowang stands out with its two convenient locations. The restaurant is known for its impressive sushi boats—elaborate presentations of fresh sashimi, nigiri, and maki rolls that are perfect for sharing.

Beyond sushi, the menu offers a range of Japanese and Asian fusion dishes, including perfectly prepared tempura, flavorful ramen, and delicate dumplings. The city center location near Grote Markt is ideal for combining with sightseeing, while the Zuid location pairs well with a visit to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.

As the oldest french fry shop in Antwerp, Frituur No. 1 has earned its reputation through decades of frying excellence. This no-frills establishment focuses on doing one thing perfectly: creating crispy, golden frites with a fluffy interior.

The traditional preparation involves frying the potatoes twice at different temperatures, resulting in the perfect texture. Choose from a variety of classic Belgian sauces, though many locals insist that mayonnaise is the only proper accompaniment. The vintage interior adds to the authentic experience.

For an elevated take on the humble french fry, Frites Atelier offers a gourmet experience. Founded by Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman, this stylish establishment approaches frites with scientific precision, from potato selection to the perfect frying technique.

What sets Frites Atelier apart are their creative sauces and toppings. Options range from truffle mayonnaise and basil remoulade to more elaborate toppings like Flemish beef stew (stoofvlees). The sleek, modern interior contrasts with the traditional fry shops but delivers equally impressive results.

This popular brunch spot combines unique decor with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cozy interior creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

Roest’s concise but versatile menu offers something for everyone. Options range from traditional Belgian breakfast spreads featuring meats, cheeses, and pastries to international favorites like eggs benedict and avocado toast. Everything is prepared with attention to detail and quality ingredients.

This traditional bakery and café in the heart of Antwerp has been perfecting the art of bread-making for generations. The sun-drenched corner location creates a bright, cheerful atmosphere perfect for starting your day.

Their freshly baked breads and pastries are the stars of the show, with the half-meter cheese sticks being particularly popular. Pair your baked goods with strong coffee for a simple but satisfying breakfast. The sandwiches make an excellent light lunch option as well.

This beloved neighborhood bakery often has lines out the door, especially on weekend mornings—and for good reason. Their croissants are widely considered among the best in Antwerp: flaky, buttery perfection that shatters delicately with each bite.

Beyond croissants, A Fresh Tart offers an impressive selection of pastries, tarts, and bread. Everything is made fresh daily using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. The small shop has limited seating, so many customers take their treats to go.

This pioneering specialty coffee shop has been at the forefront of Antwerp’s coffee revolution. With multiple locations throughout the city, Caffènation combines expert coffee knowledge with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Their house-roasted beans showcase the best of modern coffee, with options ranging from light, fruity Ethiopian varieties to rich, chocolatey Brazilian blends. The spacious Caffènation Blue location is particularly popular with remote workers, offering plenty of seating and easy access to power outlets.

More than just a café, Luddites combines a bookstore, wine bar, and coffee shop in a gorgeous old townhouse. The elegant interior features floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, cozy corners, and sophisticated décor that creates a uniquely intellectual atmosphere.

The coffee menu is carefully curated, featuring beans from top European roasters. For those who prefer something stronger, their natural wine selection is equally impressive. Browse the thoughtfully selected books while enjoying your beverage of choice in this literary haven.

Located on the main square in front of the Cathedral of Our Lady, Rays breaks the stereotype that businesses in tourist locations can’t be exceptional. This sleek, modern café takes its coffee seriously, serving perfectly executed espresso drinks.

Their rotating selection of beans highlights the best Nordic and European roasters, while the skilled baristas create silky-smooth flat whites and perfectly balanced espressos. The minimal yet warm interior provides a calm oasis in the heart of the busy historic center.

Considered one of the oldest bars in Antwerp, Quinten Matsijs exudes historic charm with its leaded windows, intricate woodwork, and candelabra-like chandeliers. This atmospheric pub offers an authentic glimpse into Antwerp’s drinking traditions.

The beer selection focuses on Belgian classics, including the local favorite Bolleke (De Koninck’s amber ale). For something different, try the Cherry Chouffe, a fruity variation on the popular Belgian strong ale. The bar offers both indoor seating in the historic interior and outdoor tables along the cobblestone walkway.

Formerly known as Cocktails at Nine, this sophisticated cocktail bar is tucked away down a tree-lined walkway, creating an exclusive, hidden gem atmosphere. The secluded location adds to the feeling that you’ve discovered something special.

The creative cocktail menu offers something for every palate, from sweet and fruity concoctions to botanical gin creations and strong, spirit-forward classics. The skilled mixologists can also create custom drinks based on your preferences. The elegant yet relaxed setting works equally well for date nights or gatherings with friends.

For beer enthusiasts, a visit to De Koninck Brewery offers both education and enjoyment. This historic brewery, founded in 1833, produces Antwerp’s iconic Bolleke beer and offers an interactive tour that explains the brewing process and the city’s beer heritage.

After the tour, visit the brewery tap room to sample the full range of De Koninck beers, from the classic amber ale to seasonal and limited-edition brews. The brewery complex also houses several artisanal food producers, including a bakery, cheese affineur, and chocolate maker.

This beloved institution specializes in Brussels-style waffles—light, rectangular, and crispy, different from the denser Liège waffles found elsewhere. The extensive menu offers numerous waffle variations with various toppings and accompaniments.

Popular choices include the wafel warme Norse krieken (waffle with hot cherries) and the wafel soleil (mixed fruit waffle). Even their coffee comes with mini waffles on the side. For a different Belgian treat, try the smoutebollen (Belgian donuts). The vintage interior adds to the authentic experience.

This charming ice cream parlor serves artisanal ice creams and sorbets made with high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The cozy interior provides a welcoming space to enjoy your frozen treats, while takeaway options are perfect for strolling through the city.

Their Speculoos ice cream, featuring Belgium’s beloved spiced biscuit in frozen form, is a standout flavor that perfectly captures local tastes. Other popular options include rich chocolate, fresh fruit sorbets, and seasonal specialties. All are available in cups, cones, or as part of elaborate sundaes.

For chocolate lovers, Quetzal offers a paradise of cocoa-based delights. This chocolate bar and café specializes in all things sweet and chocolatey, from rich hot chocolate and milkshakes to brownies and chocolate-drizzled waffles.

The highlight of the menu is their chocolate fondue, served as a “boat” filled with fresh fruit and biscuits accompanied by different types of melted chocolate for dipping. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes this a perfect spot for an indulgent afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.