Guided in Antwerp by holistic chef Annelies Deleu
We all love local tips, insider scoops and hidden gems. That’s why I asked some of my favorite locals in Antwerp, Amsterdam and beyond to share their favorite places to eat, drink, shop and more. First up: Antwerp through the eyes of Annelies Deleu, holistic chef, creative food consultant and founder of Nectar Food Studio.
Favorite breakfast spot?
“That has to be Tinsel, a no-nonsense, not too fancy or trend-sensitive breakfast bar on the Vlaamsekaai. The food at Tinsel is always very seasonal and creative and it’s one of those places without an expiration date. As a creative food consultant, I always look for an overall concept and thoughtful details like the fabric of a napkin or a signature scent. I have a weak spot for places that make me feel like I’m part of a bigger whole.”
Go-to lunch?
“I love a late breakfast and rarely go out for lunch. I also prefer having a savory dish for breakfast because something sweet like a yoghurt bowl can easily be made at home too. One of the few places I allow myself to make an exception on this rule is Tinsel. Their oatmeal bowl just has such a variety of flavors in it! And after a late breakfast, I like to go to St. Vincents for a heart warming cup of coffee.”
Dinner hotspot?
“Wild Project, is a restaurant run by two Swiss sisters. They create local dishes with foreign influences and I love their craftsmanship and creativity. Another favorite is Camion. Camille, one half of the duo behind this restaurant, is a good friend of mine. Camion adds a creative and refined touch to the plant based kitchen without being loudly vegan. The menu changes a lot and rather than trying to make the vegan cuisine accessible to everyone, the dishes really emanate their vision on plant based food.”
Favorite place to shop?
“I often buy preloved clothing and when it comes to interior design, I also often opt for vintage items. Favorites are Christiaensen & Christiaensen, Steen en Been, Wilder and of course St. Vincents. I also love strolling through thrift stores in search of hidden gems and I dare say that I really have an eye for it. Unstrained aesthetics are my thing. A house shouldn’t feel like a Pinterest board.”
“I love how Antwerp is bursting with creativity but still feels very accessible. It’s small yet worldly, creative yet sober.”
In love with?
“Portland has stolen my heart in many ways and if it had California's climate I would have already moved there. Nature there is just breathtaking and there’s a very inspiring vibe with lots of coffee roasters, beer brewers and graphic designers. Portland has countless good restaurants and there’s a very rich food culture, from street food to a more refined and sophisticated cuisine. Oh and I’ll never forget the moment I was surfing on Cannon Beach and an eagle flew right over my head. So unreal!”
Best food ever?
“Destroyer in Los Angeles is just downright genius. The place is run by Jordan Kahn, the chef behind well-known restaurant Vespertine. Vespertine is his money making machine and allows him the financial freedom to celebrate his creativity at Destroyer. The toasted rye bread with fermented butter and berry jam is to die for, the interior is simple yet elegant and then I haven’t even talked about the ceramics. Destroyer is located in Culver City and that’s reflected in the prices. In LA you only get a coffee for 12 dollars, at Destroyer you get a full breakfast.”
Travel tip
“While on a citytrip, don’t forget to look up to see the beauty of the buildings. And don’t just travel from A to B. Let the journey surprise you!”
Be sure to follow Annelies on Instagram and stay tuned for another #guidedbylocals.
Image: Irmy Coeckelbergs