Antwerp's Best Casual Restaurants

Invincible is a relaxed restaurant in the heart of Antwerp, run by chef Kenny, where you can watch fresh, seasonal dishes come together from a seat at the bar. It’s well known among locals and culinary professionals for its standout wine selection, and the welcoming atmosphere feels both casual and special.

Recommended by

Nick Bril

Chef/ DJ

Invincible, run by chef Kenny Burssens, is one of my favorite spots. Kenny’s a big wine lover and his wine menu is fantastic. His food is served at the counter table so you're dining in the kitchen and he is very much a chef. He has a pasta dish which he cooks inside a Parmesan cheese, which is a signature dish on his menu. But he is also a very good butchery driven chef and makes a great pâté en croûte and beautiful sausages. You can also get a whole grilled turbot or a chicken from the rotisserie. The menu varies a lot, but he's a true product driven chef, cooking beautifully executed dishes.

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Album is a modern restaurant in Antwerp that offers a cozy dining experience for lunch or dinner. The frequently changing menu highlights fresh flavors and quality ingredients. Diners can also explore a small yet thoughtful selection of natural wines in a relaxed setting.

Recommended by

Nick Bril

Chef/ DJ

Very modern, simple dishes made of great ingredients, and very well executed. It's a humble menu but well made. Album is one of my favorite places, located in the South of Antwerp. Lunch and dinner.

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Bistrot Du Nord is a Michelin-starred bistro in Antwerp known for its classic Belgian cuisine and seasonal ingredients. Its small, cozy interior has a relaxed feel that invites you to settle in and enjoy a traditional dining experience.

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Adam Talhimet

Front Of House/Foodie

Favorite casual restaurant in the world. I love this type of cooking centered around classic meat and a few fish preparations with a lot of offal dishes. I would be here a lot if i lived a bit closer. This is one of the top restaurants in Europe.

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Bar Bulot Antwerpen is the second restaurant from Gert De Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens, located in Antwerp’s Botanic Sanctuary. It has a timeless brasserie feel, with a relaxed atmosphere and warm service led by Koen Gussenhoven and restaurant manager Elske Mostert. Part of the Hertog Jan group, it aims to provide a friendly spot for anyone who appreciates classic charm.

Recommended by

Frank Heylen

Food & Wine hunter

Gert De Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens of restaurant Hertog Jan*** have now also started their second Bar Bulot - in Antwerpen. Timeless, tradition, classic in a pleasant setting. Koen Gussenhoven and restaurant manager Elske Mostert will welcome you with flair and a warm smile.

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Camino in Antwerp offers a relaxed setting where you can share both small and large plates. The atmosphere is lively without being fussy, and the sunlit terrace is a draw when the weather is nice. They also keep the menu fresh and have vegan options available.

Recommended by

Thea Cipido

Wine Journalist

Comfort food at its best Camino has won over the hearts of locals with their fun, simple Asian-inspired sharing dishes which are often flavour bombs. A real hotspot.

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Izumi in Antwerp has been welcoming guests for over 40 years with its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s a family-run spot where tradition and new ideas come together, creating a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Skilled chefs, daily specials, and a genuine approach to Japanese cuisine make it an inviting place for locals and visitors alike.

Recommended by

Nick Bril

Chef/ DJ

The best place to eat authentic Japanese in Antwerp. From the fried oysters to aged dashi tofu, great sushi and unagi. Love the place and the family.

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Restaurant Veranda in Antwerp has a welcoming, laid-back setting with rough walls, concrete floors, and wooden tables for a relaxed feel. The open kitchen and large windows let in plenty of light, and there’s a garden at the back for those who prefer to dine outside. Their short, seasonal menu and notable wine list make for a straightforward yet thoughtful dining experience.

Recommended by

Thea Cipido

Wine Journalist

Intellectual dishes and an incredible winelist with lots of hidden gems What you see is what you get. Rough walls, concrete and wooden tables create a signature Veranda vibe with a rock ‘n roll twist. A large window provides plenty of light and the central open kitchen divides the place in two. Davy Schellemans creates honest, thoughtful dishes with interesting combinations. Add polite, professional service and an incredible wine list and you got yourself a great evening

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Caffènation Roastery and Bar PAKT sits in a creative part of Antwerp, just around the corner from The Jane. They roast their own coffee and offer a simple open-air terrace where you can relax in the sun. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it an easygoing spot for anyone looking to enjoy a quality brew amid a friendly setting.

Recommended by

Frank Heylen

Food & Wine hunter

Very good Roastery with a nice open terrace when the sun is shining, nearby restaurant The Jane (Nick Bril) and untitled.

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Cafe Kulminator in Antwerp caters to beer enthusiasts with a wide selection to explore. The laid-back setting makes it a comfortable place to enjoy a drink on-site or pick up a bottle to take home.

Recommended by

Mehmet Gurs

Chef

Anyone that’s serious about beer should make a pilgrimage to Cafe Kulminator. They have an amazing selection and a super cool atmosphere. Either sit down and really enjoy one of the outstanding beers or take it home with you.

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COBRA is a lively spot in Antwerp with a relaxed terrace and a bold, creative vibe. Guests can enjoy cocktails, champagne, or a small wine list while sharing dishes made with top ingredients. The laid-back setting and focus on fresh ideas make it an inviting place to gather.

Recommended by

Frank Heylen

Food & Wine hunter

Living, vibrant place with nice terrace. Tasty dishes, lot of seafood with top ingredients to share. Cocktails, champagne and small wine list.

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Da Fellini in Antwerp has a friendly, neighborhood feel and offers authentic Italian flavors. Brothers Ivan and Emiliano bring a taste of Calabria to Belgium, focusing on honest, satisfying meals. People appreciate the casual setting and welcoming atmosphere, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a good meal.

Recommended by

Nick Bril

Chef/ DJ

1 of my favorite Italian places in Antwerp. For me, Italian cuisine never bores, if done well. This is one of my fav Italian spots and a bit off the radar and map. The place has a nice neighbourhood vibe, serving very tasty food.

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Dôme sur Mer in Antwerp is a modern seafood restaurant that prepares fresh ingredients as soon as you order. They emphasize simple cooking with local, seasonal products and invite you to enjoy their sunny terrace when the weather allows. It’s a welcoming spot where you can share a relaxed meal with friends.

Recommended by

Marcelo Ballardin

Chef Owner

A real treat for sea food with a beautiful terrace, amazing staff and great spot shared with friends. Little brother from restaurant Dome. This place is a real treat for seafood with a beautiful terrace, amazing staff and a great spot shared with friends.

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Dogma is a bar in the heart of Antwerp with an interior inspired by the 1920s. It offers a mix of timeless and modern cocktails, served by a friendly and dedicated team. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time.

Recommended by

Jean-Trésor Vets

Sommelier

Quality cocktails in a fashionable, nostalgic setting Dogma is a bar located in the heart of the city centre of Antwerp. At the head we have Didier van den Boeck that leads a team with a super hospitable heart. The bar’s interior takes you back to the 1920's as do some of the classics on the cocktail list of the bar. A must do is the Bloody Mary! Although they have quite some classics they also have an extensive choice of cocktails that are seasonal and modernistic. The perfect combination of new and old. Photos: Marjorie Romeijn

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Nage is a welcoming bistro in the heart of Antwerp that highlights fresh, high-quality ingredients in an informal setting. The laid-back atmosphere and warm service make it easy to feel at home, and there’s a thoughtful selection of natural wines to explore. It’s a relaxed spot for anyone looking to enjoy an uncomplicated meal rooted in good produce.

Recommended by

Adam Talhimet

Front Of House/Foodie

Neo-bistro Antwerp style, right in the heart of the city. Nage seems to be the chefs' favorite in town, maybe because they are open on Monday. But the food is excellent, loved the signature steak dish of dry aged holstein. Seasonality is key here. Nage is here to stay, Antwerp gem.

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Misera is a small, welcoming spot in Antwerp’s Nieuw Zuid where you can see Chef Nicolas Misera and his team at work in an open kitchen. It specializes in fresh, high-quality ingredients, particularly fish and shellfish. A carefully chosen wine list and a warm, modern interior make the experience both relaxed and engaging.

Recommended by

Flip Dejaeghere

Flip World Foodie

Culinary à la carte Delights Antwerp Gem. Located at Antwerp’s Nieuw Zuid, chef Nicolas Misera finally found his own place of Happiness. That happiness you taste in his à la carte creations focusing on the “better” products of the sea. The open kitchen reveals all the action by Nicolas & Leroy, creating umami flavoured dishes. The winelist has some very reasonable priced beauties. One of those young talented restaurants to watch and getting his first Michelin star very very soon, this spot you need to discover!!

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Mico & Jon in Antwerp is known for its no-nonsense, progressive Asian cuisine. With a small menu meant for sharing, they keep things straightforward and inviting. Booking by phone is the only way to secure a table, adding a bit of old-school charm to the experience.

Recommended by

Thea Cipido

Wine Journalist

No-nonsense progressive asian cuisine They have become a culture on their own in Antwerp. You’ll be lucky if you call and they have a table left because that’s the only way you can book a table. Old-school style. They have a small menu with dishes to share. So the best thing you do is just take everything. Replied with Mico’s mantra: “Perfect, you only live once!”. Veggie mochie buns, hoisin confit duck dumplings, scallion pancake with shiitake. Belgian chicory and amazing Singapore chili clams. Paired with an amazing selection of sake. Finishing with their legendary puffy cheesecake and a matcha cake. A must visit.

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ARTE has been a lively spot in Antwerp’s historic center since 1990, offering Italian-inspired dining alongside contemporary art displays. Its welcoming atmosphere suits everything from casual lunches to special evenings out. With a focus on quality ingredients and genuine hospitality, it remains a comfortable place to enjoy a meal in the city.

Recommended by

Nick Bril

Chef/ DJ

Among Italian restaurants, one of my favourite spots on a Monday is Arte. Great Italian food, a modern restaurant that's always always busy. I think they do over 200 covers, beautiful terrace outside. If you like accessible Italian food in a modern restaurant, Arte is the place to be.

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untitled. is a flexible spot at The Jane in Antwerp, led by ex-Kuala Lumpur chef Joeri Timmermans and supported by Nick Bril. It began as a pop-up and offers bold, global flavors at an approachable price. Guests can also enjoy a range of cocktails, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, in a lively setting.

Recommended by

Flip Dejaeghere

Flip World Foodie

Started as a popup project, but nowadays a surplus value at The Jane Antwerp. Run by talented ex Kuala Lumpur chef @joeri_timmermans_ & supported by @nickbril Bringing bold & cosmopolitan flavours at a very democratic price, while one can enjoy the vibes of world’s most exquisite culinary church. For sure a visit to this young team will give you that smile of happiness when leaving. Oh yess… do try the surprising delicious cocktails as well alcoholic as non-alcoholic

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Frites Atelier in Antwerp is a relaxed spot that pays special attention to creating fries that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. It’s a simple, satisfying choice for anyone looking for a quick bite made with care.

Recommended by

Malgosia Minta

Food journalist

The fries are crispy outside and soft inside, with a palatable (but not too harsh) touch of salt. When fine dining chefs take on the fast dining staples. Here comes Sergio Herman, one of the most acclaimed chefs in Belgium, who decided to make THE best fries possible. He said it took 18 months to find the right potatoes - and the work has paid off. The fries are crispy outside and soft inside, with a palatable (but not too harsh) touch of salt (and not just a Salt but a samphire salt - after all it’s Sergio Herman’s place :). Best to go for simply fries and sauce (you can have two of choice) - preferably classic as Mayo or Truffle Mayo, some white wine or Stella Artois. Less is more.

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HIRO in Antwerp is a relaxed Japanese-inspired spot where you can drop by without a reservation. They serve a range of drinks like wines, sakes, and craft beers, and the atmosphere has playful hints of manga art. The modern twist on classic izakaya dining, along with an optional chef-guided meal, makes it a casual yet memorable place to visit.

Recommended by

Nick Bril

Chef/ DJ

A hype for a season. Modern izakaya, with naturel wines and cool drinks by the glass. Top ingredients, with a modern euro japanese take. Loved it

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Café Commercial is set in an old Flemish café in Antwerp, offering straightforward food made with great produce. The staff is known to be fun and welcoming, creating a relaxed atmosphere for anyone who stops by. It's a down-to-earth spot where you can simply unwind and enjoy a good meal.

Recommended by

Adam Talhimet

Front Of House/Foodie

The food you want to eat, the wine you want to drink. Straight forward, in an old Flemish cafe. The food is smart and simple with great produce, shout out to the service team, very fun and nice.

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Tango Antwerp is a casual neighborhood bar and kitchen on Sint-Paulusplaats that offers a friendly spot to relax. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients for both drinks and food, working to cut down on waste wherever they can. You can even grab a bottled cocktail to enjoy at home.

Recommended by

Frank Heylen

Food & Wine hunter

Easy Neighbourhood bar on the st Paulusplace Antwerp with tasty snacks, the best quality and perfect cuisson! Try the lovely cocktails or a fresh wine or beer. You can even take out the cocktails in a bottle. Excellent Price/quality. No rerservations

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