For several years, restaurant Matty has had a reputation as a place where you can get good quality food at a reasonable price. It is located in a multicultural neighborhood in the center of Antwerp, in a more than elegant house that is tastefully decorated. I am always impressed when I step into their hallway!

“Matty” was once created by chef Matty Van den Brande who previously worked for eight years at Belgocatering, one of Belgium’s fine catering companies. He has now gone away for a sabbatical and has left his restaurant to a partner and his sous chef. I was a bit upset when I heard this the first time but after a recent visit I can only say I’m still a fan of the hospitality and good food.

Matty serves a fresh 4-course fine dining menu that is never over the top or too much, just the way I like it. Other than that I appreciate their great selection of wines and bubbles, the tasteful music in the background, enthusiastic service, the open kitchen, and interesting prices in the middle of the market.

At my last visit I enjoyed a delicious king crab ravioli with rouille, shellfish gravy and citrus, followed by a perfectly prepared wild duck with a lot of seasonal condiments. To finish it off I had a spices infused panna cotta with figs and elements of pistachio. Hmm!