Coffee and lunch bar Cabagine, ideally located in a quiet residential area in Berchem, Antwerp, basically kept me sane during the first lockdown. Getting a hot almond milk cappuccino or a Curaçao latte (which tastes a bit like an exotic cocktail but there is no alcohol in it) served in a pretty recyclable take-away cup was my go-to activity on a gloomy Saturday afternoon. But Cabagine serves more than a decent cup of java. Now that it’s open again in full force, it’s the ideal place for a tasty lunch or a drink.

Anke, the ever-smiling owner of Cabagine, is a self-taught cook and delights us every week with new lunch ideas, and on weekends even with several breakfast options. There is almost always something on the menu with eggs, hummus or feta, some of my favorite ingredients! When I’m not in a savory mood, there are a few sweet options as well. From the more daring ones, like pandan cake, to a good old slice of bread pudding. I’m not a beer connoisseur but the hubby once had a good look at their menu and fridge and told me that they have quite a few specialty beers worth checking out. Tip: try the Papegaai, it is supposed to be really good!

But what I like the most about Cabagine is the view on that big beautiful square outside surrounded by trees and kids playing around. In summer there is a large terrace to enjoy it even more!