Belgium, AntwerpJuly 20, 2025, by Lies Polet

Summer on the Left Bank (Antwerp) in bistro Pampelonne

Out and about, Eat & Drink, Lunch , Pop up, Restaurant, Terrace
Belgium, Antwerp, July 20, 2025, by Lies Polet

Summer on the Left Bank (Antwerp) in bistro Pampelonne

There are places where you "just pop in for a quick drink" and suddenly, three hours later, you're still sitting there, glass in hand, wondering whether to have dessert. Pampelonne, in other words. Not in Saint-Tropez, but on Antwerp's Left Bank—and believe us, we'll be there often this summer. Feet under the table before you can even say "vacation." Not a classic terrace, but a boho bistro by the water in this up-and-coming neighborhood. Left bank in Antwerp. And that every Thursday to Sunday, until the end of September.

Boho bistro with a view of the Antwerp skyline

Boho bistro with a view of the Antwerp skyline

The location? Not just anywhere, but in the garden of Club Royal—on the water, with a view of the Antwerp skyline. Tarpaulins providing just the right amount of shade, tables you'll want to linger at for hours, and then that view. Right on the Antwerp skyline. A ferry departs every fifteen minutes from Steenplein (so there's no need to rush), or if you prefer to walk, you can dive into the Sint-Anna Tunnel like any local. Parking is also readily available. Rarely is this carefree in Antwerp. But admit it: a boat trip adds to the holiday atmosphere.

Sun on your plate

Sun on your plate

It starts even before the first dish has even left the kitchen – with their olive oil and bread, you know more delicious things are coming. Everything is perfectly fine to share, although sometimes you just don't want to. Like that smoked salmon with crème crue, horseradish, and Granny Smith cheese. Order it and you'll know what we mean. Or that vol-au-vent royal with veal sweetbreads; it's enjoyed loudly. And rightly so. The menu features fish and meat, straight from OFYR, but also eggplant parmigiana, which suddenly becomes the kind of side everyone digs into. Everything is served on beautiful, inviting tableware. No fuss, just inviting. As it should be. And for those who think it's just a main course: no way. Want to share another? Of course. And dessert, yes! It's a holiday on the Left Bank, and you just saved on your plane ticket.

Feeling inspired to explore Antwerp further? We get it! Barts best of Antwerp for a weekend away.

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