Van Wesenbekestraat – Little China Town

Image by Caroline D'hont

Even though it’s only one street long, Antwerp has its own little China town. I come here of course to buy ingredients for Asian dishes at reasonable prices, but I also love to stroll by and enjoy the atmosphere: exotic fruits and vegetables being unloaded from trucks, strong and unknown fragrances, a small Buddhist temple… And if you’re lucky, there might be a Chinese festivity going on. It feels like travelling!

In September 2010 the Antwerp Chinese community was gifted a traditional gate at the entry of the Van Wesenbekestraat. It’s a beautifully decorated and it already has become a landmark in Antwerp. It was specially designed for Antwerp in China, so the trams can ride underneath it as well.

There are many shops in the street, my favourite is ‘Asia Food’: a small supermarket with neat rows stacked with Asian products. I always find what I need, and sometimes discover new exotic ingredients. ‘DK’ is known as the best restaurant in the street. It serves real, authentic Chinese food.

Details about this spot (Show on map)
Van Wesenbekestraat | Art & culture, Shopping, Restaurants (Chinese)
Van Wesenbekestraat | Stationsbuurt
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