Antwerp and the Northeast Restaurants

Antwerp cuisine understandably focuses on fish, presented with few frills in even the finest restaurants, often poached or steamed, and reasonably priced. From the chilled whelks and periwinkles (marine snails) picked out of their shells with pins, to piles of tender little grijze garnalen (small shrimp), to the steamy white flesh of the mammoth tarbot (turbot), the scent of salt air is never far from your table. The ubiquitous mosselen (mussels) and paling (eels), showcased in midpriced restaurants throughout the city center, provide a heavier, heartier version of local fish cuisine. Bought live from wholesalers, the seafood is irreproachably fresh.

Antwerp has a high number of restaurants for a city its size. Many of the traditional places, both formal and casual, are clustered in Oude Stad. There are plenty of tourist-focused restaurants on the Grote Markt, but if you look along the smaller streets around the square you'll find some excellent local favorites. Het Zuid, meanwhile, is known for trendier cafés and restaurants. Peak dining hours are generally from noon until 3 and from 8 pm to 11 or midnight. Since the dining scene is quite busy, it's best to make reservations.

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  • 1. 't Fornuis

    $$$$ | Oude Stad

    Burrowed deep in the heart of old Antwerp, there is something likeably stubborn about the defiantly traditional t' Fornuis, a place where stock Flemish surroundings with heavy oak chairs and beamed ceilings are the setting for some of the best (and priciest) food in the city. Charismatic Michelin-starred chef-owner Johan Segers likes to change his French-accented menu regularly; however, roasted sweetbreads with a wild-truffle sauce are a permanent fixture and worth trying. He also tends to stop by for a quick chat with just about every diner, if only to explain what it is you're eating. While you're waiting for your visit, take a chance to look at the restaurant's wonderful collection of miniature stoves.

    Reyndersstraat 24, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-233–6270

    Known For

    • Likeable old-world setting
    • High-priced French cooking that more than lives up to the bill
    • Gregarious owner who's always willing to chat

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed weekends and 1 month in summer, Reservations essential
  • 2. Fiskebar

    $$$ | South of the Center

    This hip Scandinavian-style fish joint is the place to try seasonal, organic, and sustainable seafood---arguably the best in the city---served simply as a fruits de mer platter, grilled with hand-cut fries on the side, or as an always-excellent bouillabaisse. If the weather cooperates, opt for a seat on their spacious terrace instead of the rather cramped dining room, all the better for prime Het Zuid people-watching---it's always packed, but walk-ins can grab a high stool if you arrive early and forgot to book.

    Marnixplaats 11, Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
    03-257–1357

    Known For

    • Some of the best seafood in Antwerp
    • Great atmosphere in a perennially popular (though tiny) restaurant
    • A bouillabaisse to remember

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations recommended
  • 3. The Jane

    $$$$ | South of the Center

    Having held two Michelin stars since 2017, this shooting star on the Belgian gastronomy scene is located in the chapel of a former military hospital, albeit an open kitchen has replaced the altar and stained glass takes its inspiration from the tattoo parlor. The wine list is vast and the average dining experience usually runs past three hours thanks to its 10-course (€215) tasting menu, which is heavily slanted toward fish and seafood. Booking opens 90 days in advance, and can be a chore if you don't plan ahead, but stick with it for the most remarkable dining experience in Antwerp.

    Paradeplein 1, Antwerp, Flanders, 2018, Belgium
    03-808–4465

    Known For

    • Lengthy tasting menus with international inspiration
    • A fantastic wine list with well-thought-out pairing options
    • Fabulous setting in a former chapel

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.–Wed., Reservations essential
  • 4. 't Hofke

    $$ | Oude Stad

    It's worth visiting here for the location alone, in the Vlaeykensgang (the oldest alley in the city), where time seems to have stood still. The cozy dining room has the look and feel of a private home. The lunch menu includes a large selection of salads and omelets, as well as more substantial bistro fare in the evening. Try for a table in the courtyard.

    Oude Koornmarkt 16, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-233–8606

    Known For

    • Its venerable setting, in the oldest neighborhood in Antwerp
    • Good lunch options
    • Flemish classics
  • 5. De Fortuyne

    $$$

    Along a quiet street just off the Grote Markt, this chic restaurant creates a relaxing vibe with its rustic, bare brick interior walls, and a secluded rear terrace. The modern Belgian cuisine is served as a four-course set menu that changes every two months—each course consists of two separate dishes that are designed for sharing.

    Befferstraat 20, Mechelen, Flanders, 2800, Belgium
    0483-389–966

    Known For

    • Beer pairings with each dish
    • Good wine list
    • High tea on Saturday

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch Tues.–Fri.
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  • 6. De Godevaart

    $$$$ | Oude Stad

    Tradition gets a modern infusion here, where a resolutely old-school atmosphere is enlivened by a smattering of contemporary art, while the kitchen turns out seasonal classic dishes presented with an artist's eye for flair. From fillet of lamb surrounded by a forest of green and wild garlic, to a deliciously gamey pigeon en croute, the choices are seasonal and big on flavor. The outdoor terrace at the back is also a pleasant spot in summer.

    Sint-Katelijnevest 23, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-291–9799

    Known For

    • Imaginatively presented dishes
    • Fresh, seasonal cooking in a sumptuous setting
    • Good-value lunch menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues., Reservations essential
  • 7. De Windmolen

    $$

    In an old yellow-painted brick farmhouse just east of the center, the leafy front terrace and rustic interior both provide a charming setting for enjoying this small restaurant's generously portioned and innovative takes on Belgian and European classics. The beer list is short but outstanding, as is the wine list—unsurprising as the same family also runs the wine store next door.

    Casterstraat 46, Hasselt, Flanders, 3500, Belgium
    0474-273–712

    Known For

    • Period furnishings
    • Friendly service
    • Simple but authentic Flemish food

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Tues.–Thurs.
  • 8. De Witten Vos

    $$$

    Commanding a prime spot on the main square, the White Fox serves good portions of pan-European food at fair prices, with a menu that juggles Italian pasta, Belgian and French favorites, and—in the fall season—a range of game dishes. Choose a spot on the front terrace for fine views of the cathedral and the city hall, or simply for people-watching.

    Grote Markt 30, Mechelen, Flanders, 2800, Belgium
    015-206–369

    Known For

    • Food served all day
    • Friendly service
    • Excellent seafood
  • 9. Dôme

    $$$$ | South of the Center

    Architecture and food aficionados will appreciate both the food and somber decor in this splendid Art Nouveau building in the upscale Zurenborg neighborhood---this former teahouse, sewing school, and police office maintains its original floor mosaic, and the whitewashed walls and dome-shape roof parallel its haute cuisine. Michelin-starred head chef Frédéric Chabbert learned his trade working in Hong Kong, and brings touches of his international experiences into the classic-inspired dishes of his French homeland.

    Grote Hondstraat 2, Antwerp, Flanders, 2018, Belgium
    03-239–9003

    Known For

    • Excellent wine list
    • Glorious Art Nouveau setting
    • An easy-to miss sign by the door

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon., Reservations essential
  • 10. Elfde Gebod

    $ | Oude Stad

    With a name that means 11th Commandment, and an interior crammed with more than 600 plaster saints and angels salvaged from old churches, this atmospheric café enjoys a prime location, tucked into a tiny street between the Grote Markt and the cathedral. The food and drink are straightforward but hearty, with a lunchtime menu that revolves around club sandwiches and croques (pricier full meals are served in the evenings), and you can sit on the terrace in the shadow of the cathedral.

    Torfbrug 10, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-288–5733

    Known For

    • Unique interior packed with religious iconography
    • Very popular at peak times
    • Efficient service, despite the crowds
  • 11. Fiera

    $$$$ | Oude Stad

    For those who fancy dining in epic surrounds, this restaurant occupies a former trading hall of the neo-Gothic stock exchange building, which dates from 1872. In contrast to the historic setting, the pan-global dishes are ultramodern works of art on a plate---prepared in the open kitchen on one side of the hall, their names derive from their geographical inspiration: a riff on a ceviche, for example, might be called "Lima," while a pasta-based dish might be titled "Florence."

    Lange Nieuwstraat 14, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-369–2332

    Known For

    • Located in a stupendously grand neo-Gothic hall
    • Check out the churchlike vaulted ceiling, 80 feet above your head
    • Contemporary fine dining taking inspiration from around the world

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.
  • 12. Frites Atelier

    $ | Meir

    Brussels may be the city best known for its frites, but that hasn't stopped this high-end Dutch friture from muscling in. Created by three-star Michelin chef Sergio Herman, its Antwerp branch was the first in Belgium (now in Ghent and Brussels), and its elaborate sauces, from "deep truffle" to seasonal specials like "olive and Catalan cream," make it something special. If you're looking for dinner, be aware that this places closed at 7.

    Korte Gasthuisstraat 32, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium

    Known For

    • Frites are the focus, but the burgers and croquettes are also great
    • The sauces are pretty special, too
    • Quick service and tasty results
  • 13. Grand Cafe Horta

    $$$ | Meir

    The iron framework of the 19th-century Maison du Peuple, a building designed by famed Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta, supports this brasserie. It siphons a hip crowd from trendy Hopland Street and keeps a sunny feel with large mustard-yellow industrial beams and windows all around. The kitchen sends out brasserie favorites like Aberdeen Angus rib steak and frites, as well as tempting contemporary dishes with lighter wraps, bagels, and salad options for lunch.

    Hopland 2, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-203–5660

    Known For

    • A bright and airy spot to rest your feet and grab a bite while shopping
    • A wonderful setting within a fabulous Victor Horta--designed building
    • Some fine lunch options

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner Sun.
  • 14. Het Nieuwe Palinghuis

    $$$$ | Oude Stad

    Aptly named, The New Eelhouse specializes in various preparations of sweet-fleshed eel, along with grilled turbot, sole, scallops, and myriad other crustaceans, including lobster and mussels (in season). Fittingly for an Antwerp landmark, the restaurant has dark wood and a comfortable, deep-rooted air.

    St-Jansvliet 14, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-231–7445

    Known For

    • Remarkably fresh seafood
    • Redbrick walls bedecked in old pics
    • High prices but good quality

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon., Tues., and Fri.
  • 15. Het Pomphuis

    $$$$ | Het Eilandje

    The name translates to the Pump House, and in its heyday it drained the neighboring dry dock to allow for ship maintenance. It still looks the part; a vast interior boasts an impressive 23-foot pit with iron parapets and round Art Nouveau--style windows with their original metal rods. The bistro-style menu includes bubbling bouillabaisse, succulent sweetbreads as well as great slabs of tenderloin drizzled in béarnaise sauce. Make a trip to the washroom to view the heavy steel pump doors.

    Siberiastraat Z/N, Antwerp, Flanders, 2030, Belgium
    03-770–8625

    Known For

    • Classic bistro food with an international twist
    • Good if pricey (€34) set lunch menu
    • An incredible setting in an old industrial pump house

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. No lunch Sat.
  • 16. Intermezzo

    $$

    This modern café-restaurant with a prime spot on the main square serves pan-European dishes, but with a notable Italian slant that also spills over into the wine list. The long, narrow design of the sleek interior feels a little like dining in a train carriage, but grab a spot on the terrace and you can contemplate the strapping features of Celtic warrior Ambiorix as you eat.

    Grote Markt 13, Tongeren, Flanders, 3700, Belgium
    012-741–574

    Known For

    • Friendly service
    • Generous portions
    • All-day service
  • 17. InVINcible

    $$$ | Oude Stad

    Located in a house on a narrow side street just seconds' walk from the Grote Markt, this small French-style bistro has one of the better wine lists in the city, paired expertly with some old Gallic standards; try the homemade pâté or bone-marrow appetizers. To get a sense of the scene, and what's cooking, grab a seat at the bar overlooking the exhibition kitchen.

    Haarstraat 7, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-231–3207

    Known For

    • Watching your food being cooked and chatting with the chefs
    • An excellent wine selection with some more affordable options
    • Some of the most imaginative cooking in the city

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed weekends, Reservations essential
  • 18. K. Zeppos

    $$ | Meir

    This busy café-bar is found deep in the hipster spawning grounds of Mechelseplein, and while the menu is limited to a half dozen Flemish and French crowd-pleasers (beef carbonnade/stoofvlees, vol-au-vent, and the like) and burgers, it executes them extremely well—and at a good price. High, ornate ceilings, a long bar, and closely packed tables help perpetuate the communal vibe that carries most evenings along. It's a very chill spot, and the beer selection is pretty good.

    Vleminckveld 78, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-231–1789

    Known For

    • Hip atmosphere and communal dining tables
    • Classic Flemish favorites
    • Good prices for the quality of food

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations essential
  • 19. Murni Zuid

    $ | South of the Center

    Directly opposite the KMSKA fine arts museum, this place is open from early until late and will satisfy your needs whether you're after breakfast pancakes or a chicken burger dinner. The pan-global menu, with dishes inspired from every continent, leans toward---but is far from exclusively---plant-based and healthy. If you can't get enough of their avocado, there's another branch in the old town at Markt 52.

    Leopold de Waelplaats 10, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    03-246–6067

    Known For

    • "build-your-own" avocado toasts with various toppings
    • Healthy, fresh produce
    • Plentiful options for both vegans and vegetarians

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Wed. and Thurs.
  • 20. Nage

    $$$ | Oude Stad

    Simplicity is the buzzword---both in the contemporary Belgian cooking, and in the decor---in this elegant but cozy parquet-floored bistro with minimal decorations on the walls to distract you from the food. Lunch is à la carte, but the three- to five-course prix-fixe dinner menus are also pared down and kept simple, with no more than two or sometimes three choices per course---but simplicity doesn't prevent each dish being a masterpiece.

    Reyndersstraat 17, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000, Belgium
    0456-322–072

    Known For

    • Simple dishes with few ingredients so that each one can stand out
    • Naturally fermented wines to accompany the meal
    • The fish and seafood dishes are particular stars

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Tues. and Wed. No lunch weekends

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