I discovered Poncha Bar Madeira on the winter-tail of 2018. We’re still practically new lovers you can say... But the place has a charm, modesty and ‘good times’-vibe that you don’t know you’re looking for. It’s just a song-time away from de Groenplaats, on a street that leads you to the Schelde, Antwerp's river.
The couple that owns it are the friendliest people and will strike a conversation with you with generous ease. You feel hosted, rather than served. David, has a deep knowledge of every drink he has behind the bar, and prepares the drinks with a kind of mastery that adds to the enjoyment.
The place is not too big, with only a few tables, but if you’re lucky, you'll hop in on a calm day to be able to enjoy the full Madeira-treatment. David will then suggest you the best (really!) (poncha) cocktails, whether you like rum or whiskey, on the rocks or pure, sweet or sour. He will then prepare the best Portugese tapas which will make you feel like you just hopped on a vacation to Portugal. Next to their tapas, they make their own mouth-watering ice tea.
This poncha bar is a great place to go to after dinner if you want to enjoy these fineries with friends, or to enjoy a nice cold drink on a warm summer day.
Explore Antwerp like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Antwerp guide.
A classic is the pizza Calabrese with spicy salami, paprika, tomato, and mozzarella. Ask for some grilled onions on top to make it even tastier (you can thank me later).
By
Momo is a dumpling with a spoonful of stuffing wrapped in dough and you can order them steamed or fried. You can go for chicken, pork, shrimp, or veggie.
By
"Café Kamiel" in Antwerp has it all - good food, great coffee, a big-sized terrace and the perfect location. I come for their all-you-can-eat spaghetti!
By
I've had some of my best nights in "Bier Central" in Antwerp. It's very central and easy to reach. I recommend trying the Leffe Ruby and Kwak beer...
By
"The Other Shop" in the center of Antwerp is no regular book shop. The owners have packed their store with wit and a great variety of different...
By
"Café au Lait" is close to Antwerp's historical center. This charming cocktail bar brings together all sorts of people, and that's why I love it so much...
By
"Het Elfde Gebod" sits in the shadow of the cathedral and has kept its authenticity and appearance for 40 years... This café also makes its own beer!
By
"MoMade Cupcakes" in the heart and stomach of Antwerp makes really addictive (and pretty) cupcakes - my absolute favorite one is the chocolate-raspberry...
By
"Café Gorillaz" Antwerp's Dageraadplaats with its cosy atmosphere, great-working heaters and blankets is one of my favorite places to sit outside with wine
By
"Witzli-Poetzli" (est 1985) is probably the favorite cafe of Antwerp's artistic scene. I like it for its unique atmosphere, tasteful music and pastries!
By
89 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 89 Insider Tips from our local Spotters