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!
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"Mayana Chocoladebar" in Ghent is for the 99.9% of us who like chocolate. They have four kinds of chocolate here; I always go for the darkest one of course
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"Noodlebar Ramen" is a fresh, cozy and no-nonsense noodle restaurant in Ghent. The owner has published several books on street food. I come here for lunch.
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"STAM" is Ghent's city museum. It's located in the old abbey. I must say, if you haven't been to this museum, you haven't been in Ghent!
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"MSK" in Ghent, or Museum voor Schone Kunsten (fine arts) doesn't look so big from the outside. For me, a walk there is the perfect Sunday afternoon...
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"Citadelpark" in Ghent, only 800m from Sint-Pieters station, is the oldest and biggest park in the city - the perfect place for picnics and outdoor games.
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"Chocolatier Van Hoorebeke" in Ghent is a shop run by my family that specialises in Belgian pralines, or chocolate! Do try our Brasil mix...
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"Le Bal Infernal" in Ghent is a used book cafe where you go inside, admire the beautiful interior and switch the books with one you have already!
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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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