Vooruit, today and in the past, is more than just a bar. The building is closely related to the socialist movement and has a vivid history. Today it's a cultural temple and a meeting spot for beginning and experienced artists.
But let us stick to one of the rooms: the bar. Very important for Belgians, because this is the place where you find beer. If you're looking for a small, cosy bar, this is not your spot. At daytime people come here to drink, eat, chat, work (free wifi), read newspapers, etc. In the evening it gets more crowded as people pop in before or after a concert or theater performance. Sometimes the bar is used for free concerts, movies or dj-sets.
If I want to experience the energy of the city, this is one of my favorite places to go to. They serve good drinks and meals (Fair Trade and organic), there is always a vivid atmosphere and still this place feels quite relaxed.
If you drop in and just wait at your table, you might not get anything at all. They only serve at the bar. Bad service? No! This is the place where everything is possible, but nothing is forced to happen! Enjoy!
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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"Simon Says" in Ghent is more than a coffee bar. They offer breakfast, lunch and great cakes. I don't like coffee but it's said that theirs is the best.
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"Damberd" is the best example of that they call a 'Belgisch bruin café' in Ghent and one of its oldest bards. Very popular with the jazz crowd!
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"Yoga-on-call" is a contemporary yoga studio in the heart of Ghent. All the teachers are enthusiastic and helpful and speak English. I'm always energized.
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"Rococo" in Ghent's very cozy old neighborhood Patershol is also a cozy and romantic bar. It's known among locals as 'Betty'. Have some 'liquer d'amour'...
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"Portus Ganda" is one of the four marinas of Ghent. Its history goes back to the very basis of the city and is my favourite spot - I feel connected here...
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"BOON" is the most beautiful lunch bar in Ghent and already my all-time favorite lunch place! It is mostly vegetarian. Try the rhubarb soda, trust me.
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"The Virgin", a little fresco was revealed on November 18, 2014 in Ghent. I first followed the reaction of Pierre Pierlala, who called it an 'enlarged stamp'
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112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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✓ 112 Insider Tips