Antwerp by Geert-Jan Van Cauwelaert

How long have you been living in Antwerp? 

I was born in a green village, just outside Antwerp. As soon as my professional life began, I moved to the city centre. A few years later, together with two partners, I started my own restaurant next to the Schelde, which is nowadays known as RAS (Restaurant At the Stream). The building was designed by the well-known Antwerp architect Bob Van Reeth. My wife later joined this challenging restaurant project and we soon realised that we formed a dream team. Afterwards, we moved in together in a charming city apartment from the 16th century. After a few years, we sold our shares of the restaurant and decided to start a design company together. We therefore moved out of the city to live closer to our new warehouse, showroom and offices of XLBoom. Although we now live outside the centre, we still spent at least two nights per week in the city. As you can see, I lived near or in the city my whole life, and I could not imagine it differently. 

Where would you say is the ultimate spot to get a real feel for the city?  

There are many interesting and different areas in the city. Thanks to our rich history, Antwerp gives the feeling of being a cosmopolitan city in pocket size. My favourite must sees are listed as follows. Firstly, the Central Square in front of the Antwerp City Hall surrounded by beautiful guild houses. Another nice spot is the Bourse of Antwerp, also known as the mother of all commodity exchanges in the world. Next to this, you should go to the Central Station, the most beautiful station in the world. If you still have free time, you have to visit the Vlaeykensgang, a medieval alleway saved by the well known antique dealer and art connoisseur Axel Vervoordt at the age of 21.

Which places do you find most culturally inspiring? 

First and foremost, the Museum of Plantin and Moretus, both families made the art of printing thrive. One of our post recent museums is the MAS (Museum At the Stream), it is the place where the city and harbour blend together beautifully. There, you can find a very rich collection of art, supplemented with temporary exhibitions. In addition, the Fashion Museum, which has been expanded recently due to its great success. Last but not least, you should certainly walk around our new Harbour House, situated at ‘Het Eilandje’ and designed by Zaha Hadid, being her last great achievement.

Which restaurant or café would you say best captures the Antwerp’s vibe? 

It really is a treat to live in a foody town! Antwerp offers a wide variety of cafes and restaurants, each with their unique style and atmosphere. One of my absolute favourites is Dim Dining, runned by a chef and Maître who are dedicated to purity, quality and hospitality. I also recommend Le Pristine Café, where my daughter Marie Van Cauwelaert is chef. Apart from the impressive interior, you will be surprised by the best sharing dishes with an Italian/seafood twist. The most traditional café to inhale Antwerp is Den Engel, where you must drink a fresh tapped Bolleke De Koninck. This ‘brown café’, as we call it, was founded in 1903 and is situated next to the City Hall. 

Which neighborhood instantly springs to mind when we say “Shopping in Antwerp”? 

De Wilde Zee for sure. This place can be described as a collection of small streets where it’s always fun and cosy because of the local crowd. Along with the surrounding streets Kammenstraat, Nationalestraat, Lombardenvest and Graanmarkt.

Do you have any secret addresses you’d care to share?

There is a small restaurant Mico & Jon in the Kloosterstraat. This spot is owned by a young couple who serve asian sharing dishes with an original twist. Never hesitate here to order a dessert to complete your lunch or dinner. Believe me, you will not regret it. Soma restaurant is another gem, the owners cook with international inspriation and will for sure give you a wonderful experience. Make sure you book in time, because getting a table is hard! 

Where is the best place to stay for anyone keen to explore the city? 

If you want to properly enjoy your stay in Antwerp, I recommend Hotel Julien, Hotel August or De Witte Lelie. Actually, soon, a new five-star hotel will open its doors in the very centre: Hotel Botanique Sanctuary. 

Which design piece can only be picked up in Antwerp?

That is a very difficult question because all design companies or designers from Antwerp are very much internationally orientated. 
The most imaginative designer is Dries Van Noten and a visit to his exceptional store is a must. If you want to buy an exclusive design piece, I would recommend you to drive to Kanaal, an art gallery by Axel Vervoordt in Wijnegem. We are very lucky that our company XLBoom is nearby this astonishing realization. 

TIP

It is extremely helpful is to consult our city guide from ADDV, Antwerp Design and Deco Valley, A project founded to encourage 15 design companies to cooperate and attract customers to visit our vibrant city. 

We can send you a digital version by email, send the request to info@xlboom.com or you can pick up a printed version at the next edition of Maison&Objet Paris on our stand.