The best brunch and lunch spots in Antwerp
Since I live under the river and am not exactly averse to spending a little — let’s say too much — money, I regularly visit Antwerp with great pleasure. Not only because of the people, the style, and the wide range of boutiques, but also because of all the restaurants. When it comes to dinner, I almost always go to the same Italian where you eat the very best pasta, and over the years, I’ve also found a few five-star spots for breakfast and lunch. So do you happen to have a day in Antwerp on your agenda soon? Here are my top brunch and lunch spots in or near the center. Enjoy them.
Charlie’s Antwerp
For those who like to post a nice picture on Instagram, you must go to Charlie’s coffee bar. Besides the fact that you feel like you’ve landed in a cozy living room with a fireplace, the food on your plate looks even more inviting. From sweet treats like oatmeal pancakes with baked apple to savory toast with burrata and asparagus or avocado and goat cheese. Now I’ll mention my favorites, but they have even more delicious options. There isn’t an abundance of tables inside, so I recommend making a reservation, something you can easily do here .
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Nordica 31
Speaking of nice eateries: Nordica 31. I already have a weakness for Scandinavian interiors, so it’s no wonder I’m recommending this lunch spot to you. Not only do you find the Scandinavian element in the restaurant, but they also use products from that region on the menu. They have, among other things, lobster buns, köttbullar (Swedish meatballs), and a wide selection of smørrebrød, of which I recommend the salmon with apple. Delicious combination. And as for reservations? They don’t do that here, so you’re always welcome.
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If you’re looking for something cheaper (the other options are quite pricey), I recommend Cafematic. They have such delicious sandwiches here. Recommendations include roast beef with truffle, hummus with grilled vegetables, and of course the carpaccio, which will make everyone happy. Additionally, you can also grab a nice breakfast here. Think Eggs Benedict, yogurt with granola, banana bread, and so on. They also don’t take reservations, so you can just walk in at any time of the day. Always nice.
@hungryantwerp @cafematicantwerpen is one of my favorite spots for lunch and coffee. The atmosphere is so relaxing, and be sure to order their freshly baked cookies or carrot cake! The toast with carrot hummus and goat cheese is definitely my favorite! #coffeebar #lunch #antwerp #antwerpfood ♬ original sound – HungryAntwerp
Barchel
I’ll wrap it up with Barchel, my number one go-to lunch place. The food here is truly chef’s kiss: from (matcha) pancakes and scrambled eggs to shakshuka and pulled pork flatbread, and there are plenty of options for vegans as well. In the summer, you can catch a few rays in the courtyard, but if the sun isn’t shining, it’s just as cozy inside. Reservations can be made for groups of six or more, so keep that in mind. Fortunately, they are opening a new restaurant in the South at the beginning of 2024, so there will be plenty of space.
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