Are you planning a trip to Antwerp and looking to explore the local cuisine? While it’s easy to indulge in the iconic fries and waffles that Antwerp is known for, there’s much more to discover beyond these popular dishes. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the city’s authentic and traditional cuisine, highlighting the must-try local foods in Antwerp beyond fries and waffles.
Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Antwerp’s food scene and indulge in a range of dishes that are unique to the city. From rich and hearty stews to fresh seafood delicacies, there’s something for every food lover to enjoy. So, let’s dive into Antwerp’s local cuisine and satisfy your taste buds with the flavors of the city.
Exploring Antwerp’s Local Cuisine
When it comes to authentic dishes in Antwerp, the diverse range of local cuisine is sure to impress any foodie. From comforting stews to delectable seafood dishes, Antwerp’s food scene offers a unique culinary experience that should not be missed.
If you’re looking for food recommendations in Antwerp, start with the traditional Flemish beef stew, stoofvlees, served with a side of crispy fries. Another must-try dish is the seafood favorite, mosselen met friet (mussels with fries).
For a true taste of Antwerp, try the delicate shrimp croquettes, known locally as Garnaalkroketten. Another seafood delicacy is the Koningskrab, a delicious king crab dish that is sure to please.
Meat lovers should not miss Filet Américain, a popular raw minced beef dish, typically served with bread and toppings. Additionally, waterzooi, a creamy chicken or fish stew, is a comforting and hearty option that will warm you up on a chilly day.
To round off your local Antwerp cuisine experience, indulge in some sweet treats and desserts. Dame Blanche, or vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce, is a classic Belgian dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can also sample some of the best Belgian chocolates during your visit.
“The beauty of Antwerp’s local cuisine is in its diversity and unique flavors. From rich stews to fresh seafood, every dish is a reflection of the city’s rich culinary heritage.”
Hidden Gems of Antwerp’s Food Scene
Antwerp’s food scene has a lot to offer, and hidden gems are no exception. If you’re looking for unique food experiences in Antwerp, these lesser-known dining spots are worth exploring:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Must-Try Dish |
|---|---|---|
| De Peerdestal | Flemish cuisine | Steak tartare |
| Lunch-Lounge Het Gebaar | Belgian cuisine | Rabbit with prune and Armagnac sauce |
| Balls & Glory | Belgian meatballs | Beef and Chimay beer |
| Khindthai | Thai cuisine | Tom kha gai |
De Peerdestal is a charming restaurant with an elegant decor, serving Flemish cuisine with local ingredients. The must-try dish on their menu is the steak tartare, which is prepared tableside with your preferred level of spiciness.
Lunch-Lounge Het Gebaar is located in the heart of Antwerp and offers a fine dining experience with a menu that changes every six weeks. Their rabbit with prune and Armagnac sauce is a delicacy that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Balls & Glory is a spot for meatball lovers. They specialize in Belgian meatballs made from quality meat and served with delicious sauces. Don’t miss out on their beef and Chimay beer meatball.
Khindthai is a hidden gem for those who enjoy Thai cuisine. They offer a menu with authentic and flavorful dishes, and their tom kha gai soup is a must-try.
Traditional Belgian Dishes in Antwerp
When in Antwerp, you cannot miss out on the traditional Belgian dishes that have stood the test of time. These dishes have deep roots in the country’s culture and history and are adored by locals and visitors alike. Here are some must-try authentic dishes in Antwerp:
Flemish Carbonade
Also known as stoofvlees, Flemish carbonade is a hearty beef stew that has been cooked in beer and served with fries. The meat is tender, and the sauce is rich in flavor, making it a perfect comfort food option on a cold day.
Waterzooi
Another beloved dish in Antwerp is waterzooi. This soup is a creamy blend of vegetables and chicken or fish, seasoned with herbs and spices. Originally from Ghent, waterzooi has now become a staple dish in Antwerp’s gastronomic scene.
Waffles
Although waffles are a popular Belgian delicacy, they are still a must-try when in Antwerp. These sweet treats can be found in various cafes and street food stalls across the city, but we recommend trying them at Frederic Blondeel, a renowned chocolatier and patisserie.
Speculaas
Speculaas is a spiced biscuit that is traditionally enjoyed during the festive season, but it can be found in pastry shops throughout the year. Its blend of spices, including ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, gives the biscuit an irresistible flavor and aroma that is sure to please your taste buds.
Seafood Delicacies in Antwerp
Antwerp’s seafood scene is not to be missed. The city’s proximity to the North Sea means that fresh catches of the day are readily available and served in many restaurants. If you want to sample some of the best seafood in Antwerp, check out these local hotspots:
| Restaurant | Specialty Dish |
|---|---|
| Fiskebar | Raw North Sea shrimp with avocado cream and seaweed |
| Zeezicht | Mussels in white wine sauce |
| SMAK Foodhouse | Shrimp croquettes |
These restaurants are known for their authentic dishes and dedication to fresh seafood. Be sure to indulge in the local favorite, moules frites (mussels and fries), which you can find at most seafood restaurants in Antwerp. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing Belgian beer or crisp white wine.
Rich and Hearty Antwerp Stews
When the weather is chilly in Antwerp, there is nothing more satisfying than a hearty Belgian stew. The city boasts a wide array of stews that can warm you up and appease your hunger in no time. Let’s explore some of the authentic dishes in Antwerp that you must try:
Waterzooi
Waterzooi is a creamy stew made with fish, chicken, or both, and vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery. You can also find variations that include other proteins like beef. The stew is typically thickened with a roux and finished with egg yolks and cream, giving it a rich and decadent texture and flavor.
Stoofvlees
Stoofvlees is a classic Flemish stew made with beef, onions, and beer. The dish is slow-cooked for hours, allowing the beef to become tender and infused with the rich and complex flavors of the beer and onions. The stew is often served with fries or boiled potatoes, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
If you want to try authentic dishes in Antwerp, make sure to check out some of the traditional Belgian restaurants in the city, as they often have the best stews!
As you can see, Antwerp’s stews are perfect for brightening up a cold day. The traditional flavors and preparations of these dishes make them a must-try when visiting the city. So, be sure to put them on your list of authentic dishes in Antwerp to try!
Antwerp’s Culinary Diversity
Antwerp’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it a haven for foodies searching for authentic dishes. From Belgian specialties to global flavors, we’ve got your taste buds covered.
Start your culinary journey by sampling Antwerp’s famous Ethiopian cuisine, which is lesser-known but doesn’t disappoint. Kitfo, raw minced beef seasoned with spices and injera, a traditional Ethiopian bread are two authentic dishes not to be missed. For Filipino food lovers, Adobo, a popular Filipino stew made with meat, vinegar, and soy sauce is a must-try.
If you want to explore some of Antwerp’s hidden gems, Poke House offers fresh and healthy Hawaiian bowls, while Black Smoke serves up mouth-watering barbecue in a trendy setting.
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to Raw Salad Company, where you can create your salad bowl from scratch with a wide range of fresh ingredients. Alternatively, indulge in the city’s international food scene at The Jane, a Michelin-starred restaurant that combines Flemish flavors with global influences.
With so many culinary options to choose from, it’s impossible to leave Antwerp without discovering the diversity and authenticity of its food scene.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
After indulging in the savory dishes of Antwerp’s local cuisine, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with some delightful desserts. Antwerp offers a variety of traditional Belgian desserts that should be on every foodie’s list.
Dame Blanche
One of the most popular desserts in Antwerp is Dame Blanche, which is the Belgian version of vanilla ice cream topped with hot chocolate sauce and whipped cream. The combination of warm and cold makes it a perfect dessert to enjoy year-round.
Belgian Chocolates
You can’t leave Antwerp without indulging in some authentic Belgian chocolates. With a rich and creamy texture, Belgian chocolates are a true delicacy. Pralines, truffles, and chocolate bars are just some of the varieties available in local chocolate shops that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Speculaas
Another classic Belgian dessert to try in Antwerp is speculaas, a spiced biscuit made with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and brown sugar. It’s a perfect treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
Antwerp has many bakeries and patisseries where traditional Belgian desserts like these can be found, such as Goossens, Stuyvenberg, and Del Rey.
Local Markets and Street Food
If you want to experience the vibrant local food scene in Antwerp, don’t miss out on visiting its markets and trying its street food. Here, you’ll find a variety of authentic dishes in Antwerp that are not only delicious but also affordable.
One of the best local food hotspots in Antwerp is the Vrijdagmarkt, a weekly market that takes place every Friday. Here, you can shop for fresh produce, cheese, meats, and fish, and try some of the popular street food options, like the famous smoske, a filled baguette with salad, cheese, and various kinds of meat.
If you’re looking for a unique food experience in Antwerp, head to the De Koninck brewery, where you can enjoy street food favorites with a beer pairing. Try the Bolleke Koninck, a type of beer that is only available in Antwerp, with some delicious traditional Belgian fries.
Another street food hotspot is Josephine’s Street, which serves a variety of gourmet hot dogs and other street food specialties. Don’t miss out on their signature hot dog, the Chouke, topped with sprouts, onions, pickles, mayonnaise, and mustard.
One more unique food experience can be found at the Ballentent, a small food stand located near the harbor, where you can try Antwerp’s famous meatballs served in different sauces.
The Best Antwerp Food Hotspots
Antwerp is a food lover’s paradise, and these food hotspots will leave you spoilt for choice. Whether you want to explore trendy restaurants or savor traditional cuisine, Antwerp’s diverse food scene has something for everyone.
One of the must-visit local food hotspots in Antwerp is the Hangar 41 food hall, located in the city center. This trendy spot offers a range of culinary experiences, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood and international cuisine.
If you’re looking for a traditional dining experience, head to De Peerdestal. This cozy restaurant is a hidden gem in Antwerp’s food scene, serving up classic Belgian dishes like stoofvlees and vol-au-vent.
For seafood lovers, the Royal North Sea Yacht Club is a must-visit hotspot. This elegant restaurant boasts an impressive seafood menu that is sure to impress. Make sure to try their signature dish, the shrimp croquettes.
If you want to sample a range of local delicacies, head to the Mercado food market. This vibrant market features a range of street food stalls and restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world.
Another hidden gem in Antwerp’s food scene is the Michelin-starred The Jane. This stunning restaurant, located in a renovated chapel, offers an innovative menu combining local and international flavors.
Whether you’re in the mood for trendy eats or classic cuisine, Antwerp’s food hotspots will not disappoint. From hidden gems to iconic dining destinations, explore the city’s diverse culinary scene and indulge in some must-try dishes.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve reached the end of our guide to Antwerp’s local cuisine. We hope this article has inspired you to explore the must-try local foods beyond the famous fries and waffles. Antwerp has a rich culinary scene, and we encourage you to dive deeper into the city’s diverse flavors and traditional dishes.
From hidden gems to well-known hotspots, Antwerp offers a variety of authentic dining experiences. Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer hearty stews, there’s something for everyone in Antwerp’s local cuisine. Don’t forget to indulge in some sweet treats and desserts, such as the beloved Dame Blanche and Belgian chocolates.
Make sure to visit local food hotspots, markets, and street food stalls to savor the real taste of Antwerp. Keep in mind that Antwerp’s food scene is constantly evolving, so be open to trying new dishes and exploring unfamiliar culinary territories.
We hope you enjoyed reading this guide and that it has piqued your interest in Antwerp’s local cuisine. Plan your trip to Antwerp and experience the city’s diverse flavors and culinary culture for yourself.
