Not many tourist guides will tell you to go to the somewhat hidden Groen Kwartier in Antwerp, though it is definitely worth a visit! What used to be a military hospital for more than 150 years, has now been transformed into a green and beautiful residential neighborhood, with most of the historical buildings still intact. Within the original walls of the hospital, there are also a bunch of bars and cafes that many locals love for their cosy atmosphere. Racine PAKT is one of them and is the perfect place for brunch or an afternoon coffee.
Though you can sit very nicely inside, the best time to visit is definitely in spring or summer, when you can go outside on the rooftop terrace, which is surrounded by plants and cute fairy lights. For food options, I can recommend any of their pastries as well as their fabulous 'Green Goddess Sandwich' (guacamole, a poached egg, and salmon, what else could I ask for?). I can't think of anyone who wouldn't love this place!
Beestenbos is an ideal pub. It has great drinks and food, on a square in the city centre yet suprisingly quiet, has live music and organises brunches.
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The neighborhood of Zurenborg transformed around the same time I was born to just like me grow up - and at least the neighborhood - glow up.
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The food at Salt & Mint is not only delicious but also visually stunning! I literally come alive, and people can see it, when we make plans to eat there.
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"Bodrum Palace" is the only real Turkish restaurant in Antwerp's streets and definitely the best. Turks and I agree: the food is extremely tasty and fresh.
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"De Muze" is just around the corner of my place in Antwerp, and I do consider myself very lucky for the fact. This café has kept its atmosphere since 1964.
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"Tartine" in Antwerp takes bread very seriously. They have 'tartinis' inspired by world cuisines, but you should definitely try the Tartini Monsieur...
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This library, named De Poort, is a cosy one where you can just walk in and get yourself a magazine, drink your own coffee or just hang out a bit.
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I was not into chocolate desserts until I had the chocolate caramel souffle with fleur de sel, vanilla ice cream, and olive oil at "Soma" in Brussels...
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I recently discovered the hidden "Garden of the Academy" in Antwerp on Mutsaardstraat. A small, intimate, peaceful place that will make you feel at ease...
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"Het Bos" is one of my favorite bars in Antwerp because there is probably no spot as versatile as this one. It's a place for artists, makers & musicians.
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