7 times not to be missed in Leuven
Now that we know where to go in the Flemish Kortrijk, it is Leuven's turn. Not as well known as Ghent or Antwerp, but definitely worth a visit. A strong cup of coffee, a tasty lunch or a fun evening out? You absolutely must go here in Leuven.
We'll start with a major winner, although that's all in this list. At PLEK, founders Laura and Barbara provide you with the nicest interior goodies. Both the big guns in the form of sofas and other furniture, as well as smaller accessories and trinkets. Nice things from all over the world, from brands such as Studio Henk, HK Living, Zeeplokaal and co. Because interior shopping can also be fun, Laura and Barbara provide you with a delicious cup of coffee, a glass of homemade lemonade or a beer from a local brewery at the bar. Because the original shop in the Mechelsestraat is temporarily closed for maintenance, you can currently find PLEK at the Mechelsestraat 123.
Open from Tuesday to Wednesday by appointment, Thursday to Saturday you can walk in between 10:30 and 17:30.
BAR STAN is a modern neighborhood bar, a public living room. You will find BAR STAN on the basketball court in 't Nieuw Kwartier and can enjoy a snack, a drink and a portion of peace and quiet in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Leuven's city. In the kitchen, chef David and his team provide you with a new selection of homemade preparations every week, fresh daily and with products from local suppliers. In the morning, afternoon and evening you have come to the right place at BAR STAN and choose from the dishes on the chalkboard, for yourself or to share. With or without a beer from a local or exotic craft brewery. They also do drinks at BAR STAN. And if that's not enough, there is Sunday Brunch Day.
Open from Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 23:30. On Sundays you can come by appointment every two weeks.
This local coffee bar moved from a smaller location to a new spot due to great success. Now that they brave the Dirk Boutslaan, there is more room for a nice coffee or brunch, still in a beautiful and, above all, self-made interior. We work with sustainable materials that give your interior a special look. The dishes are all prepared with fresh products, preferably organic if it depends on the owners. Recommended if you can't choose: a mixed plate, so you can immediately taste what Koffie en Staal stands for. In addition to their coffee, breakfast, lunch and interior, you should also take a look at the homemade jewelry. It is a place where all the passions of the owners Lino and Nouchka come together.
Dirk Boutslaan 12, 3000 Leuven – Open from Tuesday to Saturday, always from 09:00 AM to 17:00 PM
A food, fashion and design corner? For that you have to go to Thelma Coffee & Design. In this concept store you can dress yourself in a new outfit, shop for something nice for your home and enjoy a cup of coffee or a piece of avocado toast. In the multi-brand boutique you will find a mix of Scandinavian brands (hello Moss CPH and Dr. Denim!) and Belgian top brands such as LN Knits and Liv The Label. The food corner will then serve you a selection healthy en homemade goodies for. From gluten-free cake and granola to smoothies and acai bowls. The leading ladies Behind Thelma Coffee & Design are Stephanie and Simke. Both ladies started working there and took over the business from founder Katrien some time ago. A must when you are in Leuven!
Open from Monday to Saturday from 10.30:18 am to 00:XNUMX pm.
We conclude with the perfect place for a night out. De Optimist is a cozy café on the Leuven Vismarkt. You can enjoy a beer or food sharing dinner, while you can also play a board game. A quick bite or a full meal? An evening with friends or a very first date? You are guaranteed to be in the right place with De Optimist. The menu changes almost every day and always surprises you with exotic dishes from all over the world. Add a glass of wine or a beer and enjoy. Reservations are not possible at De Optimist, but even when it is busy, you can usually find a seat at the bar.
Vismarkt 7, 3000 Leuven – Open from Tuesday to Saturday between 11:00 AM and 01:00 AM.
You don't want to leave Leuven without visiting the Vaart, an up-and-coming neighborhood in this city. At Bar Florida you can enjoy lunch, dinner and cocktails. The name Florida already makes you think that you are heading towards a boulevard in Florida. This is immediately confirmed when you enter this business. The American corporate identity is clearly present. The menu includes grilled vegetables, fish and meat, home-cooked in the charcoal oven. Finger food you simply order it to go with your cocktail all day long.
Vaartkom 43, 3000 Leuven – Open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 11:00 AM and 23:00 PM, Friday and Saturday between 11:00 AM and 00:00 AM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 22:00 PM.
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