Expo 2020, the World Expo hosted by Dubai, has come to an end. After being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was open to the public from October 2021 to March 2022.
A stellar feat of human ingenuity, the latest world’s fair united over 24 million people from around the globe in its six months. But what will we say of the event in a few years?
Before we look at the legacy of Expo 2020, let’s take a step back.
In April 2020, the government of the United Arab Emirates requested a postponement of the event. A month later, the necessary voting and paperwork were done — and the world’s fair was officially postponed by a year.
Due to the pandemic, stringent safety measures were necessary. Proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test result, face masks, social distancing, and hand sanitising were all meant to make visitors feel safe.
Of course, those measures only really work when everyone follows them; staff, volunteers, and visitors alike. I visited Expo 2020 in its last month. Staff barely even looked at the QR code we showed at the entry and social distancing was virtually nonexistent.
Nonetheless, organising a $33.4B event is quite the challenge, to say the least — and no part of the pandemic made it any easier. But if any city is going to be able to tackle such a massive urban planning challenge, surely it’ll be the place where seemingly all buildings have ‘Tower’, ‘Hotel’, or ‘Corp’ in their name. Right?
Expo 2020 is the world’s biggest event of the year, outside the Olympics. In other words: an opportunity that international architecture, engineering, and construction firms didn’t hesitate to jump on.
The main site of Expo 2020 was a 4.38 square kilometre section of land near Dubai’s southern border with Abu Dhabi. A stretch of reclaimed desert sand that redefined urban planning, if you will.
In this area, three thematic districts surround the central Al Wasl Plaza — the beating heart of the event. Each district focuses on one of the three sub-themes of Expo 2020: Sustainability, Mobility, and Opportunity.
With countless suppliers working on the event for years, Expo 2020 pushed the boundaries of architecture, infrastructure, and the dexterity of the human spirit.
The road to Expo 2020 in numbers
The theme of Expo 2020 is ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’. In the words of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), the organisation behind World Expos:
“Expo 2020’s theme is based on the belief that bringing the world together can catalyse an exchange of new perspectives and inspire action to deliver real-life solutions to real-world challenges.”
Bureau International des Expositions (BIE)
Expo 2020 aimed to create the greatest global gathering in history. As only the second expo in history with more than 190 attending countries, it’s safe to say the organisers succeeded.
The three sub-themes — Sustainability, Mobility, and Opportunity — inspired the 24M+ visitors to care for the planet, explore new frontiers, and build a better future for all.
Ironic, given some of the event’s sponsors:
Though Expo visitors wouldn’t notice it when visiting the site, some controversies have tainted the event’s reputation.
The biggest controversy is the event’s death count of six — three work-related deaths and three deaths due to COVID. Though officials insisted the safety standards were ‘world-class’, more than 70 workers regrettably still suffered serious injuries during construction.
This raises questions about the economy of migrant workers in the Gulf region. This is a serious issue — migrant workers make up over 80% of the population of Dubai, after all. Human rights groups often criticise countries like the UAE and Qatar (host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup). Overcrowding in worker accommodation, long working hours, low pay, and racial discrimination were common complaints among the (largely South Asian) workforce that made Expo 2020 possible.
For this reason, the Human Rights Watch called the expo part of “UAE’s calculated strategy to whitewash its image”. The European Parliament even urged states not to take part, citing human rights violations and the jailing of activists.
“Expo 2020 is yet another opportunity for the UAE to falsely present itself on the world stage as open, tolerant, and rights-respecting while shutting down the space for politics, public discourse, and activism.”
Michael Page, Deputy Middle East Director at Human Rights Watch
While Expo 2020 faced challenges with its migrant workforce, the event’s legacy will redefine urban planning and sustainability. The site will transform into District 2020 — a city reminiscent of Singapore’s 42,000-home eco ‘smart’ development.
District 2020 will be a so-called ’15-minute city’ — if everything goes according to plan, at least. “Residents should be able to access all amenities on foot in 15 minutes or less”, explains Dina Storey (Director of Sustainability Operations at Expo 2020).
The pavilions and other structures on the expo site will be remodelled into offices, innovation centres, and even sustainable housing.
Whereas expos in the past often failed to find a proper home in the host city’s wider urban development, District 2020 is the most ambitious repurposing plan to date.
And with 10 kilometres of cycle tracks, 5 kilometres of jogging paths, and a 4-kilometre autonomous vehicle public transit route, the plan seems to be set up for success.
It remains to be seen how much of the plan will come to fruition, but one thing is certain. The expos of the future have now seen that it is possible to have a strategy in place to avoid their sites falling into ruin after the event ends.
Yes, Osaka 2025 — we’re all looking at you.
I believe we will always remember Expo 2020 as the expo that was almost one of the greatest in modern history.
Yes, the expo added 2% to the United Arab Emirates’ GDP. And it played a vital role in the country’s economic recovery from the pandemic. Yes, it was also a major contributor to the digital transformation of Dubai and the UAE. But as it stands now, the Big Three world expos — yes, I just made that up — need not surrender their thrones.
London 1851 (The Great Exhibition) will always be the first world expo.
Shanghai 2010 is still the biggest world expo to date.
And the most iconic world expo for a Belgian travel blogger — yours truly, for example — is still Brussels 1958, without a doubt.
Had COVID not been a factor, who knows what the economic, cultural, and diplomatic impact of Dubai 2020 would have been?
With District 2020, an ambitious plan to hang on to the legacy of Expo 2020 is in place. And now, it’s up to the people of Dubai to deliver on their promise.
When travelling to Dubai, there are a few things you should know. And I am here to tell you all about it. Let’s dive right in!
With a population of over 3 million, Dubai is the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai.
The city was established in the 18th century as a small fishing village and taken over in 1830 by a segment of the Bani Yas tribe. At the time, this tribe was led by the Maktoum Family — whose descendants still rule Dubai today.
In 1966, oil was discovered in Dubai — stimulating economic growth and attracting traders to settle in the city (which had already grown in size thanks to its flourishing pearling industry).
Over the past fifty years, Dubai has transformed from a minor settlement in the Persian Gulf to a major economic, architectural, and touristic hub in the Middle East.
The official religion of the UAE is Islam. While it is true that Dubai is among the more open-minded destinations in the Middle East, the country — and, by extension, the city — practices Sharia law. Things that might seem normal to a typical western traveller, like sharing a hotel room as an unmarried couple, are prohibited under Sharia. Read up on this before travelling to Dubai.
In general, you won’t need to dress differently than you would on a holiday at Palm Springs or some European beach destination. When you’re visiting religious buildings, traditional markets, or rural areas, however, it’s good practice to be respectful of local habits. In other words, it’s advisable for people of all genders to wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
Dubai is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. As such, the Dubaian people — yes, Dubaian is a real word — know more than enough English to understand your order at the restaurant or your destinations in the cab. If you can understand this article, you won’t have any linguistic trouble in Dubai.
While selling and consuming alcohol is legal in Dubai, it is strictly regulated. Non-Muslim adults (21+) are allowed to consume alcohol in licensed venues (most hotels, clubs, and restaurants have a license). Drug laws are less lenient, however. If you are found in possession of drugs — no matter what amount — you will likely be arrested and jailed.
Generally speaking, Dubai is a very safe destination for international travellers. Violent law is virtually nonexistent and petty theft is rare. That said, things like homosexual acts and speaking out against the royal family are illegal, so keep that in mind when travelling to Dubai.
It’s true that Dubai doesn’t have quite the cultural history of other major cities around the world. That being said, there are plenty of things to do in and around the emirate to get you excited — whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the latest fashion, or just a beautiful view.
When travelling to Dubai, taking a day trip to Abu Dhabi is almost like a prerequisite. It would be a shame to go to Dubai and not take a day out of your itinerary to visit the largest of the Emirates.
Two things you absolutely can’t miss are the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre.
If you’re not a very experienced traveller — or if you just need a bit of guidance — you may be confused when packing for your trip to Dubai.
Luckily, the internet (in this case: me) is here to help!
I’ve compiled a Dubai packing list in a useful Google Sheets spreadsheet, just for you.
All you have to do? Fill in your name and email in the form below, and you’ll get the link sent to you.
Antwerp is one of the main cities in Belgium, so it should come as no surprise that the city is home to several independent bookstores worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a new coffee table book, a present for your sister, or the latest contemporary fiction, these bookstores in Antwerp will be sure to make your heart beat faster.
Note: The bookstores mentioned below are not presented in any particular order.
Before you go any further, take a look at the embedded map below to see all my favourite independent bookstores in Antwerp on a map.
If the embedded map isn’t working for you, check it out here: The 10 Best Independent Bookstores in Antwerp
For my favourite places to eat in Antwerp, check out this post:
Best Restaurants in Antwerp: The Ultimate Foodie Guide
Bookz&Booze is a unique concept bookstore in Antwerp that matches books with bottles — based on the book cover, the story, one of the characters, or another similarity between the two. How does a book about the Peaky Blinders TV series and a bottle of Sadler’s Peaky Blinder spiced dry gin sound to you?
The owners of Bookz&Booze are incredibly helpful and infinitely knowledgeable about their books and bottles. They love to tell you the story behind why they chose a particular bottle for one of their books.
You can purchase the books and drinks separately, and they’re perfect gifts for your loved ones.
Stad Leest is one of my favourite bookstores in Antwerp for the newest book releases. The inside of the store is massive — you could spend hours here and still not see everything — and the natural light makes your shopping experience all the more pleasant.
If you’re looking for a wide range of art and lifestyle books, children’s books, and contemporary fiction, Stad Leest is the place to be. It’s also one of the few bookstores in Antwerp with a considerable selection of English books, both fiction and non-fiction.
As if that’s not enough: there’s also an outlet store just around the corner, where you’ll find some absolute bargains.
International Magazine Store might not be a bookstore in the traditional sense of the word, but — as the name suggests — it’s a store dedicated to selling magazines. And trust me: that’s a lot more interesting than it may sound.
IMS has a vast selection of both domestic and international magazines, newspapers, and coffee table books (incidentally, one of my favourite types of books).
Whether you’re looking for the latest issue of Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, or that vintage car magazine you keep telling your friends about — chances are you’ll find it here.
Panoply is one of the best second-hand bookstores in Antwerp, period.
At just a five-minute walk from what can only be described as the most beautiful square of the city — Hendrik Conscienceplein — you’ll find Panoply: a common townhouse transformed into a safe haven for used book hunters, record collectors, and solo travellers looking to pick up a hidden gem.
With its friendly and knowledgeable staff, I challenge you to leave this store empty-handed. (Spoiler alert: you’ll fail.)
De Groene Waterman is a bookstore that looks unassuming from the outside — but transports you to higher literary spheres when you enter.
With a comprehensive, eclectic collection of Dutch and English books — both fiction and non-fiction — you’ll be sure to find a book that will broaden your mind here. Prices are comparable to online retailers, so why not support a local store if you’re in Antwerp either way?
The best part about this particular bookstore? If you walk to the back, turn left, and go up the stairs, you’ll find the hidden bargains: books and magazines in great condition, sold at hefty discounts.
I walked into Demian on a sunny Saturday afternoon in November with no idea what to expect. What I found was a charming and well-stocked bookstore where the shelves are stacked with second-hand art and philosophy books, literary classics, and rare prints and manuscripts.
The owner, René Franken, has a tangible passion for all things literature and poetry. He mostly follows his own literary preferences when replenishing his stock, and he’s always ready for a stimulating conversation with his clients.
A special mention goes to the bookstore’s extensive collection of poetry on the mezzanine floor. Also worth mentioning is the upstairs room, where the owners regularly host literary exhibitions. In that upstairs room, you’ll find a permanent supply of valuable posters, photographs, invitations, manuscripts, and more.
I bought a 1966 copy of Joseph Heller’s Catch-22 at Demian for less money than that afternoon’s cup of coffee cost me, and I got René’s comments about this edition for free.
If you like books and wine, Luddites — pronounced luh-daits — will soon become one of your favourite bookstores in Antwerp. A beautiful building with high ceilings is home to this unique bookstore-slash-winery concept that saw the light of day in 2018.
Boasting Antwerp’s largest selection of English fiction and non-fiction books, stacked on floor-to-ceiling shelves, and a wine bar hidden upstairs, Luddites is Jorien Caers and Richard Bolte’s answer to the world that relentlessly keeps digitising.
There is no wifi available, so pick your poisons — a new book and a glass of exceptional, yet affordable wine — and unplug in the wine bar.
You don’t come to Copyright Bookshop to pick up the latest New York Times bestseller. You come here to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Belgian art and architecture scene.
The staff members are friendly and act as ambassadors of that Belgian history, with precision, respect, and sincere love for their profession.
The books you’ll find here will serve as your next favourite coffee table book if you’re at all interested in interior design, architecture, fashion, or photography.
In one of the many cobbled streets in Antwerp’s city centre, you’ll suddenly stumble upon De Markies. This is an independent bookstore that sells beautiful postcards and intriguing Dutch and English books at an affordable price.
What the bookstore is most known for, however, is its “blind date with a book” concept. You pay €5 and you get a book. The catch? You don’t know which book you’re buying. You base your decision on a book silhouette in plain brown wrapping paper, and a white sticker with a few keywords to describe the book.
It’s great fun, and it eliminates the option of judging the book by its cover. After all, isn’t that something worth promoting?
Are you obsessed with reading and pop culture, or do you know somebody who is? Then you’ll love spending time in The Other Shop.
Not only does this bookstore sell the most unexpected, quirky books — you will also find endless original gift ideas for the people in your life who seemingly already have everything.
How about a Charles Dickens jigsaw puzzle, a plantable pencil, or a book that opens up to a 360 degree reading light?
There are so many bookstores in Antwerp that it’s not easy to compile a top-10 list — and that’s an understatement. Here are some more independent bookstores that you should visit if you have the time.
CronopiO — a bookstore with a great selection of Dutch, English, and Spanish books, that also serves fantastic coffee.
Kartonnen Dozen — the mail bookstore regarding LGBTQ+ literature in Antwerp (and, by extension, Belgium).
Alta Via — a bright shop that specialises in travel guides, maps, globes, and travel-themed literature.
Have you travelled to Antwerp? What were your favourite things to do?
Thanks for reading!
-S
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Travelling solo for the first time can be intimidating. But, with the right information in the back of your mind, it doesn’t have to be. This is everything you need to know about packing for your first solo trip. In other words: this is the ultimate solo travel packing list.
Let’s dive in!
Latest update: December 2022
Before we go into the solo travel packing list, let’s take a look at the age-old debate between solo travellers: suitcase vs. backpack — which should you travel with?
The truth is, both options are terrific in some situations and less-than-ideal in others. In other words: it all comes down to personal preference. Once you’ve found a bag type you’re comfortable with, it’s very unlikely that you’ll change your mind a few years down the road.
That being said, you can still make an informed decision when choosing between a suitcase and a backpack. Here’s everything you need to know.
Many people swear by using a suitcase whenever they travel, whether they are travelling solo or with other people. And, if I’m being honest, they have good reason to.
Choosing the right suitcase for your trips is a lot easier than you might think. There are some things you need to consider, but if you know what to look for, it’s a piece of cake.
Keep an eye on these things:
If you’re looking for a carry-on suitcase:
If you’re looking for a checked suitcase:
Of course, there’s not much of a heated debate if nobody disagrees with the die-hard suitcase travellers. Especially among adventurous solo travellers, backpacks are the more popular option, and they’re quickly picking up speed.
But why are travel backpacks becoming so popular? Here are some of the most common reasons solo travellers opt for a backpack over a suitcase:
Just like it is important to know what to look for in a suitcase, you need to be aware of the pros and cons of different backpacks so you can make an informed decision.
I’m a backpack traveller myself, and here are some things I find important in backpacks:
The best backpack for solo travellers: Deuter Aircontact 65+10
The best all-round backpack: Osprey Farpoint 55
Note: the recommendations above are based on which backpack I personally use. Whichever one you choose, please make sure it’s a high-quality product. After all, you’ll be using it for years to come. Reputable brands for travel backpacks are Deuter, Osprey, Tortuga, The North Face, and Nomatic.
Before we dive into some expert minimalist packing tips, let’s take a look at the most important reasons why solo travellers need to pack light at all.
In short: packing light puts you in control.
Now that you know why it’s so important to pack light, here’s the best way to do it.
How many clothes do you need on a solo trip?
Well, that depends on a number of factors:
That said, this is a suggested solo travel packing list for clothes — adjust the list as necessary for your specific trip.
Two additional tips regarding packing clothes for your next solo trip:
Next up on the list: toiletries.
Once you’ve packed your clothes and toiletries, it’s time to take a look at some specific gear you might need on your solo trip.
Again: this is very specific to the kind of trip you’re taking, so adjust the list as necessary.
You always need documents when travelling. I usually rely on their digital versions, but it’s always good to have a backup paper version in case your smartphone dies or something happens to it.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be the 21st century if you’re not travelling with electronics. These are some of my essentials when I’m travelling alone.
This is a list of miscellaneous things that I often take on my solo trips, but that didn’t fit any of the other categories.
Do you want your solo travel packing list in an easy-to-follow Google Sheets template? Enter your name and email in the form below and you’ll get the template in your inbox in just a few minutes.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Ars Currendi!
Discover everything the Antwerp food scene has to offer, from Asian fusion sharing restaurants to vegan lunch bars and authentic, dusty bars. These are the best places to eat in Antwerp, as told by a local.
With a history dating back to the Middle Ages, Antwerp is now the second-largest metropolitan area in Belgium. And yet, the city somehow still remains under the international traveller’s radar.
I moved to Antwerp in August 2021, and I quickly had an ever-expanding list of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops I wanted to try. Now, I have another list — one with restaurants that won’t break the bank and that I can personally recommend because I’ve been there.
Take a look at the embedded map below or click the link if the map isn’t loading for you.
This article will also contain information about the restaurant’s price range:
Disclaimer: I compiled this list of the best restaurants in Antwerp based on my personal experience and budget. I know there are plenty of haute cuisine restaurants in the city, but I didn’t add them to this article because Ars Currendi is a travel blog for budget-savvy solo travellers.
That being said, let’s take a look at the best restaurants in Antwerp. Enjoy!
Skip ahead with the following links:
Why travel all the way across the world when there’s so much contemporary Asian food to be found in Antwerp? Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisine are all widely represented in the city.
Sum Sum is anything but just another Asian restaurant. You’ll find a seasonal selection of tasty dim sum, as well as Japanese and Chinese dishes with a twist, and traditional bao buns.
If you’re eating here with friends or family, start off with a steamed dim sum mix. Are you travelling solo? Then I highly recommend the dan dan noodles.
Aside from the fresh sushi I ate in Japan, Fugu serves the best sushi I’ve ever eaten, hands down. And I’ve eaten quite a bit of the stuff. Their sushi rolls are surprising, unique, and definitely worth the price.
With just three words, you’ll want to book a table at BÚN the next time you’re in Antwerp — Vietnamese fine dining. The unique sharing plates and drinks to match are served in a pleasantly furnished interior.
Similarly, there’s no need to travel to the other side of the continent to experience the best Italian cuisine has to offer. Although I must admit, I completely understand if you want to visit Italy — even if it’s just for the food.
Livelli is a restaurant in the city centre that makes choosing your order easier than it’s ever been. The menu consists of just four dishes, and all of them are lasagna. Just so you know: reviews often mention ‘the best lasagna I’ve ever eaten’.
Simple, freshly made Italian food at honest prices — that’s what you’ll get at Pici. Located on the bustling Dageraadplaats, this restaurant will effortlessly transport you to Mediterranean spheres.
While travelling, it’s a good idea to follow the locals and venture away from the tourist hotspots. After all, that’s the only way you’ll find one of the best pizzerias in Antwerp — Orso. Beware: the restaurant is small, so making a reservation online is highly recommended.
Antwerp is a trendy city. In other words: our vegetarian and vegan friends won’t go hungry. These are some of the best plant-based and veggie restaurants in Antwerp.
Whether you’re vegan or not, the food at Humm is to die for. When eating here, I guarantee you won’t miss meat or dairy. Oh, and the staff is super friendly, as well.
Native is the place to be for a surprising lunch or drinks — whether that’s with your loved one, your friends, or just by yourself. The food is creative and delicious, and the interior design will make you feel right at home.
Camion’s tagline is ‘Only the good stuff’, and the staff goes the extra mile to make you believe it. The food is plant-based and elegant, and the restaurant itself is modern, yet welcoming.
Antwerp is one of my favourite solo travel destinations in Europe. One of the reasons why is because Antwerp is home to plenty of restaurants that cater to solo travellers — here are some of the best.
Healthy West African-inspired street food, friendly staff, and great music — the perfect lunch break while strolling through the streets of Antwerp, if you ask me. Insider tip: Loa serves delicious African pepper soup every Saturday and Sunday.
If you’re in town during the weekend, be sure to have a stroll around Theaterplein and sample delicious food and drinks of all cultures at the weekly farmer’s market. Saturday is the best day to visit for travellers, with an emphasis on fresh produce and food at reasonable prices. The closing time is 4 PM.
Ask 100 locals what the best Indian restaurant in Antwerp is, and 99 of them will say Mission Masala. The restaurant is known for its Desi soul food, gorgeous location, and unmistakably Indian atmosphere.
A coffee a day keeps the grumpy away. I don’t know about you, but there’s nothing I’d rather spend €5 on than a good cup of coffee when I’m travelling. These are my favourite coffee bars in Antwerp.
Located in the lively South district (‘Het Zuid’), Butchers Coffee is a solid coffee bar with an eclectic interior that reminds visitors of the building’s past as a butcher’s shop. The coffee is exceptional and the baristas always greet you with a friendly smile.
Inspired by the bustling coffee culture of Australia, Kolonel Coffee found its origin in 2012 and moved to its current location, the vibrant Troonplaats, in 2014. Come here for excellent, home-ground coffee in a spacious and industrial interior. (By the way: you can also buy their coffee beans on their webshop.)
As the name reveals, Nordica 31 gets its inspiration from Nordic culture, with excellent coffee and easy-going staff to match. Don’t miss out on the indulgent cinnamon bun, or any of its lesser known alternatives (cardamon, blueberry, or hazelnut).
Take a breather and relax on the sunny outdoor terrace at Georges Espressobar, or get your coffee fix on the go if you’ve got places to be. The coffee is served with delicious homemade cookies, and you’ll get the owner-slash-barista’s smile for free.
This café is fully dedicated to the art of coffeemaking, and — unsurprisingly — serves the highest quality of joe. You will feel and taste the staff’s passion for coffee in every cup they serve.
Breakfast is the unsung champion of meals — at least when travelling. Many travellers quickly munch down a granola bar and a cup of coffee when they wake up, but it’s well worth it to take your time for the most important meal of the day — especially on the road. These are my favourite restaurants in Antwerp to get breakfast or brunch.
Come to Stacks for the Instagram-worthy pancakes, stay for the surprising food pairings and beautiful interior. Additionally, the portion sizes are more than big enough to give you the energy you need for a morning of exploration around the city.
A brunch bar reminiscent of Grandma’s place (in the best way possible) with a wide range of tasty drinks and healthy food and an inner court to get away from the noise of the city? No wonder Maurice is one of the best places in Antwerp to get brunch.
Are you coming to Barchel? Then get ready for the best breakfast or brunch you’ve eaten in recent history. The food is fresh and full of flavour, the coffee is strong, and the location is inspiring.
No article about the best restaurants in Antwerp is complete without some recommendations for bars and cafés, right? These are some of the best places to get a drink in Antwerp.
A local favourite in the trendy Sint-Andries neighbourhood, Dansing Chocola is one of the best bars to hang out with friends or people-watch in the evening. With a wide range of beers at affordable prices, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time here.
Bar Salon is one of the many bars on the Dageraadplaats worth your time. The atmosphere at night is always lively and welcoming. This bar has a special place in my heart because it’s one of the first I went to after moving to Antwerp.
Hidden away on a street corner just behind one of the city’s major museums is an eclectic bar with a great ambience, named Chatleroi. The place to be for the authentic Belgian bar experience.
What do you get when you mix a love for literature, a taste for fine drinks, and a passion for live music? That’s right — Café Boekowski. Browse through the bookshelves with used books, sit down at one of the tables and lose yourself in a good story for the next hour or so.
On the outskirts of the city is another local favourite: Bar Brul. Located next to one of the biggest parks in Antwerp, this pub is a fantastic place to talk to locals over Belgian beer. Bonus: it’s easily accessible by public transport.
These honourable mentions are still among the best restaurants and bars in Antwerp, but they didn’t quite make the cut, for various reasons. However, I still wanted to share them with you, since they’re some of my favourite places to eat and drink around the city.
Takumi
Umami
Camino
Cafe Mombasa
Black & Yellow
Preparing for your trip to Antwerp?
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