Antwerp, Belgium is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich culinary history and diverse cultural influences, this charming city offers a plethora of options for food enthusiasts to indulge in various dishes from every corner of the world. From traditional Belgian waffles and frites to exotic cuisines like Indian, Japanese, and Moroccan, Antwerp has something for everyone. The city’s vibrant restaurant scene is a testament to its commitment to celebrating diversity and providing a unique dining experience to all. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, Antwerp’s culinary offerings are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So why not explore this foodie haven and discover new flavors from around the globe?
What are the some of the local fast food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. “Frites” – Belgian fries are a must-try in Antwerp. They are long, thin strips of potatoes that are deep-fried until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Frites are typically served with ketchup, mayonnaise, or mustard for dipping. What makes Belgian fries unique is their use of high-quality potatoes that are carefully selected and prepared to ensure the perfect texture.
2. “Waffles” – Waffles are a popular breakfast item in Antwerp and are often served with sweet toppings like chocolate, whipped cream, and fruit. What makes Belgian waffles unique is their use of light, fluffy batter that results in a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
3. “Moules Marinières” – Moules Marinières are a traditional Belgian dish that consists of mussels cooked in white wine, butter, garlic, and shallots. What makes these mussels unique is their use of fresh, sustainably sourced mussels that are cooked to perfection with aromatic ingredients.
4. “Poffertjes” – Poffertjes are small, fluffy Belgian pancakes that are typically served with sugar syrup and whipped cream. What makes Belgian poffertjes unique is their use of a special batter that results in a light, airy texture with a crispy exterior.
5. “Stoofel” – Stoofel is a Belgian fast food chain that serves a variety of dishes, including burgers, fries, and salads. What makes Stoofel unique is its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful, satisfying meals that are quick and easy to enjoy on the go.
What are the some of the traditional food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Waterzooi: This hearty stew is a traditional Belgian dish made with potatoes, carrots, onions, and various meats such as beef or pork. It is often served with white bread to soak up the delicious gravy. Waterzooi is unique for its thick, creamy broth that is made from a combination of meat and vegetable juices.
2. Waffles: Antwerp is known for its crispy, golden waffles, which are usually served with whipped cream and sugar. These delicious treats can be found all over the city, but the best place to try them is at one of the many waffle stands on the streets of Antwerp.
3. Moules Marinières: This classic Belgian dish is made with mussels that are cooked in white wine and butter, along with garlic and parsley. It is usually served with frites (Belgian-style French fries) and is a favorite among seafood lovers.
4. Chimay Beer: Antwerp is home to many breweries, but one of the most famous is Brewery De Koninck. This brewery produces a wide range of beers, including the popular Chimay beer. The unique thing about this beer is that it is aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, complex flavor.
5. Poffertjes: These small, round pancakes are similar to waffles but have a lighter texture and are usually served with powdered sugar and cinnamon. They can be found all over Antwerp, but the best place to try them is at one of the many poffertje stands on the streets of the city.
What are the some of the Indian food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Chaat Masala: This spicy snack is made with chickpeas, potatoes, and various spices such as chili powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It’s a popular street food in India and can be found in many Indian restaurants in Antwerp. What makes it unique is the combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors that dance on your taste buds.
2. Samosas: These savory pastries are filled with a mixture of potatoes, peas, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. They’re a beloved street food in India and can be found in many Indian restaurants in Antwerp. What makes them unique is the perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the flaky pastry to the spicy filling.
3. Butter Chicken: This creamy curry dish is made with chicken, tomatoes, cream, and various spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine and can be found in many Indian restaurants in Antwerp. What makes it unique is the rich, velvety sauce that clings to every piece of chicken.
4. Biryani: This flavorful rice dish is made with meat (such as chicken or lamb), vegetables, and various spices such as saffron, cardamom, and cloves. It’s a popular dish in Indian cuisine and can be found in many Indian restaurants in Antwerp. What makes it unique is the layering of flavors and textures, from the fragrant saffron to the tender meat.
5. Gulab Jamun: These sweet, doughnut-like balls are soaked in a sugary syrup and often served with tea or coffee. They’re a popular dessert in India and can be found in many Indian restaurants in Antwerp. What makes them unique is the delicate balance of sweetness and texture, from the soft, chewy dough to the sticky, sweet syrup.
What are the some of the Chinese food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Xiaolongbao – This is a type of Chinese dumpling that is filled with pork, soup, and other ingredients. It is typically served in a small bowl with a spoon and chopsticks. The broth inside the dumpling is what makes it unique, as it adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Xiaolongbao can be found at many Chinese restaurants in Antwerp, including Wok Express and China Palace.
2. Ma Po Tofu – This is a spicy stir-fry dish that is made with tofu, minced meat (usually pork or beef), and a variety of sauces and spices. The dish is named after the Sichuanese chef Ding Baozhen, who is said to have created it in the late 19th century. Ma Po Tofu is known for its spicy, numbing flavor and can be found at many Chinese restaurants in Antwerp, including Red Bean and China Palace.
3. Peking Duck – This is a roasted duck dish that is famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. The duck is typically served with pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce. Peking Duck is a staple of Chinese cuisine and can be found at many restaurants in Antwerp, including China Palace and Wok Express.
4. Har Gow – This is a type of shrimp dumpling that is filled with minced shrimp, vegetables, and other ingredients. It is typically served steamed and has a translucent skin. Har Gow is known for its delicate flavor and can be found at many Chinese restaurants in Antwerp, including Wok Express and China Palace.
5. Szechuan Hot Pot – This is a spicy Chinese hot pot dish that is made by simmering meat, vegetables, and other ingredients in a broth that is infused with chili peppers and other spices. The dish is typically served with rice noodles and can be found at many Chinese restaurants in Antwerp, including Red Bean and China Palace. Szechuan Hot Pot is known for its spicy, numbing flavor and can be a great way to experience the flavors of Chinese cuisine.
What are the some of the Italian food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Poutine: This Canadian dish has become quite popular in Belgium as well. It consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. In Antwerp, you can find a variety of poutine options, including vegetarian and gluten-free versions. The unique twist on this classic dish is the use of Belgian frites, which are thin and crispy, making for a delightful texture combination.
2. Chimay Beer: Belgian beer is famous around the world, and Antwerp is no exception. One of the most popular beers in the city is Chimay, a strong and malty ale that has been brewed since 1864. The unique thing about Chimay is its distinctive orange-red color, which comes from the use of caramel malt. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including stews and hearty meats.
3. Waterzooi: This classic Belgian stew is made with potatoes, carrots, onions, and a variety of meats such as beef, pork, and chicken. The unique thing about waterzooi in Antwerp is the use of seafood instead of meat, resulting in a delicious and light seafood stew that is perfect for warming up on a cold Belgian day.
4. Frites: Belgian fries are famous around the world, and Antwerp is home to some of the best frites in Belgium. These thin and crispy fries are usually served with ketchup or mayonnaise and are perfect for dipping into a variety of sauces. The unique thing about frites in Antwerp is the use of Belgian potatoes, which have a higher starch content than other varieties, resulting in a crispier fry.
5. Waffles: While waffles may seem like a classic Belgian dish, Antwerp takes it to the next level with its unique twist on this sweet treat. In Antwerp, you can find savory waffles filled with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as sweet waffles topped with whipped cream, chocolate, and other toppings. The unique thing about waffles in Antwerp is the use of liege waffles, which are made with yeast dough and have a thicker and chewier texture than traditional Belgian waffles.
What are the some of the Japanese food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Ramen Burger: This dish is a fusion of two Japanese favorites – ramen noodles and hamburgers. It consists of a thick, juicy burger patty served on a bed of ramen noodles with toppings such as teriyaki sauce, green onions, and sesame seeds. The combination of the savory burger with the umami-rich noodles creates a unique and delicious meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
2. Tonkatsu: This dish is made up of thinly sliced breaded pork cutlet that is pan-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It is served with rice, shredded cabbage, and tonkatsu sauce, which is a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. The dish is often topped with pickled ginger and mayonnaise for an extra kick of flavor.
3. Sushi Burrito: This dish is a giant sushi roll that is wrapped in seaweed and filled with a variety of ingredients such as raw fish, avocado, cucumber, and crab meat. It is often served with wasabi sauce and pickled ginger on the side. The sushi burrito is a popular dish in Japan that has gained popularity around the world for its convenience and portability.
4. Okonomiyaki: This dish is a savory pancake made from a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage. It is often topped with ingredients such as seafood, meat, and vegetables. The dish is cooked on a griddle until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Okonomiyaki is a unique dish that combines Japanese flavors with Western-style cooking techniques.
5. Matcha Latte: This drink is made by mixing matcha powder (a type of green tea) with hot water and milk, resulting in a bright green, frothy beverage. It is often served in a traditional Japanese tea bowl and is enjoyed for its calming and relaxing effects. Matcha lattes are a popular drink in Japan that has gained popularity around the world for their unique taste and health benefits.
What are the some of the Mexican food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Tacos al Pastor: This dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine and can be found in many restaurants across Antwerp, Belgium. It consists of thinly sliced pork that has been marinated in spices and chilies, served on a warm corn tortilla with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and pineapple. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of pineapple as a topping, which adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory pork.
2. Chiles Rellenos: This dish is made up of stuffed poblano peppers filled with cheese or meat, coated in egg and then fried until crispy. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of poblano peppers, which are native to Mexico and have a mild and smoky flavor that pairs well with the rich filling.
3. Tamales: These traditional Mexican dishes are made up of masa (dough) filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed until cooked through. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of corn husks as a wrapping, which gives it a distinct flavor and texture that cannot be replicated by other types of wrappers.
4. Enchiladas: This dish consists of tortillas filled with meat or cheese, covered in a spicy sauce, and then baked until bubbly and golden brown. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of enchilada sauce, which is a blend of chili peppers, tomatoes, and spices that adds a fiery kick to the dish.
5. Chilaquiles: This dish is made up of fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa and served with eggs or chicken on top. The unique aspect of this dish is the use of fried tortilla chips as the base, which gives it a crispy and satisfying texture that pairs well with the rich and flavorful salsa.
What are the some of the Thai food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Pad Thai: This classic Thai dish is a must-try in Antwerp. It consists of stir-fried rice noodles, tofu, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. The unique twist on this dish at Kanesy.com is the addition of Belgian waffle bits, which adds a sweet and crunchy element to the dish.
2. Tom Yum Soup: This spicy and sour soup is made with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. The unique twist on this dish at Kanesy.com is the addition of Belgian beer, which gives it a distinct Belgian flavor.
3. Green Curry: This creamy and flavorful curry is made with coconut milk, green chilies, and a variety of spices. The unique twist on this dish at Kanesy.com is the addition of Belgian chocolate, which adds a sweet and rich element to the dish.
4. Pad See Ew: This stir-fried noodle dish is made with Chinese broccoli, garlic, and soy sauce. The unique twist on this dish at Kanesy.com is the addition of Belgian frites, which adds a crispy and savory element to the dish.
5. Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet and sticky dessert is made with mangoes, coconut milk, and glutinous rice. The unique twist on this dish at Kanesy.com is the addition of Belgian waffles, which adds a crispy and sweet element to the dish.
What are the some of the Middle East food dishes to eat in Antwerp, Belgium?
1. Falafel: This Middle Eastern dish is made from chickpeas that are mashed and then fried. It’s a popular street food in Antwerp and can be found at many restaurants and cafes. The falafel in Antwerp is known for its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. It’s typically served with pita bread, hummus, tahini, and pickled vegetables.
2. Shawarma: Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that consists of thinly sliced meat that has been marinated in spices and then grilled on a vertical spit. In Antwerp, shawarma can be found at many street food vendors and restaurants. It’s typically served with pita bread, pickled vegetables, and a variety of sauces.
3. Kebab: Kebab is a Middle Eastern dish made from marinated meat that is skewered and then grilled. In Antwerp, kebab can be found at many restaurants and cafes. The kebabs in Antwerp are known for their flavorful marinades and tender, juicy meat.
4. Börek: Börek is a Middle Eastern pastry that is made from layers of phyllo dough and then filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or ground meat. In Antwerp, börek can be found at many bakeries and cafes. The börek in Antwerp is known for its crispy exterior and flaky, buttery interior.
5. Tabbouleh: Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad that is made from parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. In Antwerp, tabbouleh can be found at many restaurants and cafes. The tabbouleh in Antwerp is known for its fresh, tangy flavor and the use of fresh herbs and vegetables.