Music to your ears Food - the International Society of Plant

Transcription

Hotels Restaurants Cafés Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps
Ghent
“In Your Pocket: A cheeky, wellwritten series of guidebooks.”
The New York Times
July 2013 - January 2014
Music to your ears
Welcome to Ghent: UNESCO City
of Music. From the Gentse
Feesten to Vooruit 100 and
Parkkaffee, there’s a concert
this year for everyone
Food
Discover why Ghent is Belgium’s
top culinary destination. Isn‘t life
simply njummie?
N°3 - € 2.50
www.inyourpocket.com
Bubble Post,
for all your local deliveries,
visibility and events.
for more information: www.bubblepost.be or mail to [email protected]
Contents
3
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
Contents
Arrival & Transport
5
How to get to your hotel
The Basics
8
Getting to grips with Ghent
History
11
The city’s past on two pages
Culture & Events
13
Concerts, galleries and events
Where to stay
20
Beds for backpackers and business executives
Dining & Nightlife
24
From light drinking to heavy eating
Cafés
Classic cafés and bakeries
32
Nightlife
35
Plunge into one of Ghent’s bars: loungy, hip,
dark: a bar to everyone’s taste.
Sightseeing
Museums, churches and other sights
38
Vooruit, photo by Anke Sanders
List of small features
Great Bradley Wiggins
8
Noosebearers
11
Ghent, UNESCO City of Music
17
Parkkaffee
19
Ghent’s Culinary Prodigies: The Flemish
Foodies and Beyond
31
Het Lam Gods
39
Shopping
45
For the ultimate gift & souvenirs
Directory
51
Pharmacies, banks and barbers
Maps & Index
Country map
53
Street index
54
City centre map
City map
Lys, photo by Anke Sanders
ghent.inyourpocket.com
Index
55
56-57
58
4
Foreword
Forget Bruges, Antwerp, and even Brussels: it’s Ghent,
a modern, buzzing city with a wonderful medieval centre
that should be on top of your ‘things to visit in Belgium’
list. The city’s many beautiful historical buildings, winding
canals, bustling international port, top-rated university,
museums, shops, restaurants and bars are guaranteed
to make a visit worth your while.
What Ghent might lack in size (it only has around
250,000 inhabitants), and medieval facades (slightly
fewer than Bruges), it makes up for in jovial atmosphere,
cultural activities, unstoppable entrepreneurial drive,
and unmistakable joie de vivre. A case in point is the
infamous ten-day-long Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten
in Dutch), held every summer. About two million visitors
attend the Stroppendragers’ (see Noose-bearers on
p.11) party each year.
Ghent is a city of contrasts: it effortlessly combines
the old and the new in its architecture, traditions
and citizens alike. Amidst the medieval Saint Bavo’s
Cathedral and Belfroy, young families go about their lives.
Students enjoy a traditional Neuzeke (purple candy) or
a shot of Filliers jenever before exploring the sizzling
Ghent nightlife. Pensioners can have a beer in the ultramodern Stadshal (nicknamed the Sheep Pen). One thing
all Ghent citizens have in common is the fact that they
take pride in their cultural heritage. This year, Ghent
invites everyone to celebrate its rich cultural history with
a number of events.
A little over 100 years ago, King Albert I and Queen
Elisabeth inaugurated the World Fair in Ghent. The
Exposition universelle et internationale de Gand
was one of the most spectacular world fairs to date.
Ghent’s many cultural institutions and organizations have
seized the hundredth anniversary of the Ghent world
exhibition to present a series of exhibitions in which
they highlight the significance of 1913 for society today.
Another birthday girl is the much-loved Vooruit: the
grand old lady of Ghent’s cultural scene is 100 this year.
During Vooruit100 (which runs until October 2013) the
building in the Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat opens its doors
to everyone interested in Vooruit history. Activities
include the Cooperette, where you can repair clothes
and make new things, and the Think Bar, a place where
ideas, proposals, scenarios and projects are examined
and shared. During this anniversary year, the Vooruit
Café offers up some unique recipes from well-known
chefs, as well as a specially brewed beer, the Triomfbier.
Moreover, the Vooruit in Ghent app guides smartphone
users through Ghent’s city centre, hot on the trail of
creativity and transition, key words both of Vooruit,
and of Ghent. Finally, the STAM museum hosts an an
intriguing historical exhibition of the Vooruit building, its
significance for Ghent and the many activities that have
taken place during the past century.
The Film Festival Gent might be a long way off being
a centenarian, but its 40th edition, scheduled for October
8th-19th, 2013, merits a celebration nonetheless. The
festival was first established as a student film festival, and
has since developed into one of Europe’s most prominent
film events, attracting over 130,000 visitors each year.
Many international guests from the world of film flock
to Ghent to present their films to the general public. In
addition to the screenings, the Film Festival Gent also
organizes film-related exhibitions. What makes the Festival
truly unique, however, is its focus on film music: every
year, the festival organizes film music concerts, giving
composers of film scores the platform they deserve. An
annual highlight are the World Soundtrack Awards, the
most prestigious soundtrack awards in the world.
After exploring these events, and the many other
delights Ghent has to offer, it will be hard not to fall for
this exciting, picturesque city. This In Your Pocket guide
gladly takes you on a tour of the very best of Ghent.
Hungry for more? Check out additional information online
at www.inyourpocket.com/belgium. We welcome all of
your suggestions and comments: send them to ghent@
inyourpocket.com.
All that’s left is for us to wish you a fantastic time in
Ghent, which is, as they say in Ghent slang, ‘vree wijs’!
(‘very cool’)
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arrival & Transport
Publisher
Lariksenstraat 12. B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
Tel. (+32) 473 51 30 02, [email protected],
ISSN 2034-8975
© BIYP SPRL/BVBA
Printed by PAPERLAND S.A.
Published twice per year,
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Editorial
Editors Sofie Steen, Craig Turp
Contributors Astrid Vandendaele, Kristel Vereecken,
Jean Jacques Haus
Design Vaida Gudynaite
Photography Reine Ortiz, Anke Sanders, Visit-Gent
Cover Visit-Gent
Sales & Circulation
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Sales Reine Ortiz, Sofie Steen
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Maps
AQUATERRA N.V.
Ghent is easily explored on foot with most of the sights located within the relatively small city centre. Riding a bicycle
around the city is not a bad idea either. The flat terrain and
the generally short distances make cycling a lovely way
to discover town. That being said, Ghent also has a well
organised public transport system, reaching nearly every
corner of the city.
All trams and buses in Flanders are operated by the
transport company De Lijn. You can find a route planner,
schedules and network maps at the company’s website,
www.delijn.be, or at a Lijnwinkel or Ghent Tourist Office.
Tickets can be bought either directly from the driver inside
buses and trams, at a Lijnwinkel or in most supermarkets and newspaper shops. Lijnwinkels are located at
Sint-Pieters station, Gent-Zuid (Graaf van Vlaanderenplein)
and at Korenmarkt. A single ticket costs €2 if bought from
the driver or €1.20 if bought in advance. If you plan to use
city transport regularly, you could buy a Lijnkaart for €9,
which allows you to make 10 single journeys. You could
also choose to get a day pass for €5 (€7 if purchased
from the driver) or a 3-day pass for €10 (€12 from driver).
Tickets always need to be validated by using the yellow
machine inside trams and buses. Stick the ticket in the
machine and press the number of zones you are travelling
though. Unless you are travelling outside the city limits,
this will be just one zone.
By car
Driving to the centre of Ghent can be a difficult task
and be quite costly.
There are four different zones, and they are split into two different sections. You have the choice of Kort Parkeren (shortterm parking, maximum three hours) and Dagparkeren (24
hours). Parking costs vary, from €2 an hour in the centre of
the city up to €10 for a full day. Remember, however, that it’s
hard to find a parking spot in or near the Old Town. Don’t park
without paying unless you fancy a huge fine.
If you’re coming from out of town, free parking at one
of the six Park and Ride locations is your best option. The
only damage is €2 for a tram ticket to town (or €1.20 if you
buy it in advance).
There are Park & Ride facilities at:
P+R Gentbrugge (250 parking places)
P+R Oostakker (200 parking places)
P+R Flanders Expo (106 parking places)
P+R Wondelgem Industrieweg (48 parking places)
P+R Mariakerke (25 parking places)
P+R Gentbrugge Moscou (15 parking places)
If you’re still determined to drive into the Old Town then
look for a parking garage. There are nine parking garages
in Ghent. Rates vary, but you will pay around €1,50 an
hour. You can find them easily by following the electronic
signs on the billboards when you enter the city from whatever direction: the signs will also tell you how many free
spaces are available. Further details of parking garages in
town can be found here: www.parkeerbedrijf.gent.be.
Tourist information
Beautiful cities always have a tourist office and Ghent
is no exception. For information about the city, head to
Ghent Tourist Office. If you want to know something
about the surrounding region, step inside the office of
Toerisme Oost-Vlaanderen.
Ghent Tourist Office B-2, Sint-Veerleplein 5, tel.
(+32) 926 65 660, fax (+32) 926 65 673, visit@
gent.be, www.visitgent.be. To find the city’s tourist
information office, walk through the gate in the corner of
the square and you will spot it directly on the left. A large
selection of brochures, leaflets and city maps is available, including maps with thematic walking routes and a
brochure specifically for vegetarian visitors. Try the futuristic touch-screen tables, which will provide visitors with
lots of information about the city and ideas for places to
visit. If you still have questions, the knowledgeable staff
will enthusiastically answer them. The tourist information
office is also the departure point for guided walks in the
city. QOpen 15/10 > 14/03: 09:30 - 16:30/ 15/03 >
14/10 : 09.30-18.30. TJAUGW
Toerisme Oost-Vlaanderen B - 3, Sint- Niklaasstraat 2, tel. (+32) 926 92 600, fax (+32) 926
92 609, [email protected], www.tov.
be. If you plan to explore the region around Ghent, the
provincial tourist information office is a good place to
start. This office is particularly well equipped with cycling
and hiking maps, which you can buy for a small fee. You
can also pick up brochures about various regions in East
Flanders and the helpful staff will gladly advise you about
journeys into the rural area around the city. QOpen 09:00
- 12:00 & 13:15-16:45. Closed Sat, Sun. J
5
6
arrival & Transport
By plane
Ghent does not have its own airport, but getting
to the city from Belgium’s major airports is quite
straightforward.
The country’s largest flight hub, Brussels Airport (Zaventem), is about an hour away from Ghent. Those taking
budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz to Belgium will land
at Brussels Charleroi Airport, 50km outside of Brussels
proper.
Antwerp Airport only handles a few charter flights,
but if you happen to arrive here, take bus 14 to Antwerp
Central station and hop on a train there. The trip to Ghent
will take about 1.5 hours.
Flights to Ostend-Bruges Airport are also limited to a
few charters. From here, bus 5 and 6 run to Ostend railway
station, from where trains to Ghent are leaving three times
an hour.
By train
Ghent has two railway stations: Sint-Pieters and
Dampoort.
Most trains arrive at Ghent Sint-Pieters (A-6). A tunnel
connects the twelve platforms with the central hall. Entering the central hall from the tunnel, the ticket office (open
05:45 - 22:00, Sat and Sun 06:00 - 22:00) is located on
the left side. There are three ATMs in the central hall,
several kiosks, some coffee shops and a photo booth.
The toilets are located on the path towards the western exit and these cost €0.50. You can change currency
at the Europa Bank (open 09:30 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 17:00,
Thu 09:30 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 18:30, closed Sat, Sun), which
is also located towards the western exit. Lockers for luggage storage are opposite the bank. A small locker costs
€3.00, a medium one €3.50 and a large locker €4.00, all
for a 24 hour period. If have such a large suitcase there
is also a manual luggage storage. For €4.00, the man
behind the counter in the lost and found office (open
06:15 - 21:30) will happily take care of your belongings.
This is also for a 24 hour period and you can find the lost
and found opposite the ticket office.
Getting to town: From Sint-Pieters station, tram 1
is the quickest option to the centre. When you exit the
station, the tram stop is on the left side. Wait at platform
2 and hop on a tram directed at Evergem. You could buy
tickets for buses and trams from the driver, these cost
€2. If you buy a ticket in advance, it costs €1.20. In case
you prefer taking a taxi, both railway stations have a row
of taxis lined up in front of the station entrances.
Ghent-Dampoort station (D-2): All trains coming
from and going to Antwerp stop at Dampoort. This small
station is closer to the city centre and usually more convenient if you are travelling to or from Antwerp. The ticket
office (open 05:45 - 20:00, Sat and Sun 06:00 - 20:30)
is located inside the waiting room, where you will also find
lockers for luggage storage. Beware that the waiting room
closes at 20:30 and you cannot get access to the lockers
after that time. Just outside the main entrance is an ATM.
After 22:00 you have to enter the station through the side
entrance next to the parking area.
Getting to town: The walk from Dampoort station
to the city centre takes about 15 minutes, but you could
also take bus 3, 38 or 39. These buses all leave from
platform 1 on the opposite side of the road next to the
railway bridge.
Waiting for the boats on Korenlei, photo by Reine Ortiz
Brussels Airport Leopoldlaan, Zaventem, tel. (+32)
275 37 753, www.brusselsairport.be. Next to a village
called Zaventem, 12 kilometres from central Brussels, lies
Belgium’s prime international airport. Taking a taxi to central
Brussels will cost about €45. A cheaper option is to make the
15 minute train ride to Brussels Central station, from where
you can change trains to nearly every corner of the country.
The railway station at the airport is at level -1. There are two
direct trains leaving Brussels Airport for Ghent: the IR-train
(final destination De Panne) is the quickest and takes 55
minutes to complete the journey to Ghent. The other direct
train, (final destination Ghent Sint-Pieters) is much slower
due to the many stops on the way. You can also take any
train from the airport to Brussels North railway station and
change there. A ticket from Brussels Airport to Ghent costs
€11.80. GW
Brussels Charleroi Airport rue des Frères Wright
8, Charleroi, tel. (+32) 902 02 490, www.charleroiairpor t.com. After collecting your lug gage you have
essentially two options for travel to Ghent: take a shuttle
bus to Brussels Midi and catch a train to Ghent Sint Pieters from there, or take bus A to Charleroi railway station.
The Brussels City Shuttle can be found directly outside
the terminal, leaves every 30 minutes and the €13 ticket
can be purchased online in advance, from the driver, or
via one of the streetside vending machines. Those opting
for Charleroi’s train station will have to change trains at
Brussels Midi.
Buses
Although Ghent lacks a central bus station, nearly every
part of the city can be reached by bus. Most towns in
the surrounding area are connected to Ghent by bus as
well. The main hubs in the city’s bus network are at Zuid
(Graaf van Vlaanderenplein), Sint-Pieters station and
Dampoort station. Regular buses run from 06:00 until
23:00.
arrival & Transport
Eurolines A-6, Koningin Elisabethlaan 73, tel. (+32)
922 09 024, www.eurolines.be. If you want to take
a cheap bus to discover another exotic destination, the
Eurolines bus might be your thing! You can take your bottle
of Roomer or your box of chocolates with you to Stockholm, Paris or even Bratislava. QOpen , Mon, Tue, Wed,
Thu, Fri 08:45 - 12.30&13:30-17:45, Sat 09:00 - 12:30.
Closed Sun.
is about 40 percent cheaper than a normal return
ticket. If you are staying in Belgium for a while, you
could consider buying a Rail Pass (€76), which allows
you to make 10 single journeys within Belgium. Travellers who haven’t yet reached the age of 26 could get a
Go-Pass for €50.
Car rental
Three tram lines run through the city. The most frequent
and perhaps the most useful one is tram 1, which travels
from Flanders Expo, via Sint-Pieters station to Evergem.
Tram 4 tours around the city centre from the suburb
Moscou, via Zuid and Sint-Pieters station to Zwijnaardebrug, at the city’s southern edge. Trams are frequent
and you will rarely be waiting longer than 8 minutes. The
latest departures are roughly at 23:00.
Avis Kortrijksesteenweg 676, tel. (+32) 922 20 053,
www.avis.be. QOpen 08:00 - 12:00 & 13:00-18:00, Sat
08:00 - 12:00. Closed Sun. AL
Hertz Nieuwewandeling 76, tel. (+32) 922 40 406, fax
(+32) 922 40 604, [email protected], www.hertz.
be. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. TA
Taxis
There are five official taxi ranks in Ghent:Gent-SintPietersstation, Gent-Dampoort station, Korenmarkt,
Woodrow Wilsonplein and Flanders Expo.The flag-down
rate for all taxis is fixed at €8, which includes the first 3
kilometres and a waiting time of 5 minutes. Every additional kilometre costs €2 and at night (between 22:00
and 06:00) there is a flat surcharge of €2.50. Taxi
drivers are always required to use the meter, even to
destinations outside the city perimeter. The only exception to this rule applies to long-distance journeys with
fixed rates. Such destinations include Brussels Airport
(€95) and Brussels South-Charleroi Airport (€140).
CR Taxi Zuidledeplein 19, tel. (+32) 489 22 20 80, fax
(+32) 925 92 188, [email protected], www.taxicr.be. A
reliable taxi company. It is possible to book a taxi for up to
six passengers. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. PA
Minerva Watertaxi A-3, B-4, Coupure Rechts 2a,
tel. (+32) 923 37 917, fax (+32) 378 91 759, www.
minervaboten.be. This boat rental company offers a water
taxi service along the Leie River, but you will have to book
in advance. Minerva also rents its boats for trips upstream
the scenic Leie River, into the rural area southwest of the
city. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00. Prices: €50/hour, €20/hour
waiting time. J
V-Tax Wiedauwkaai 98, tel. (+32) 922 22 222, fax
(+32) 922 24 436, [email protected], www.v-tax.be. One
of the largest and oldest taxi companies in the country.
QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. A
Trams
Bicycle rental
Biker C-2, Steendam 16, tel. (+32) 922 42 903,
www.bikerfietsen.net. Biker sells, repairs and rents
bicycles. The rental fee is €9 per day. QOpen 09:00 12:30 & 13:30-18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J
De Ligfiets D-4, Lange Violettestraat 49, tel.
(+32) 922 50 777, fax (+32) 922 34 496, info@
ligfiets.be, www.deligfiets.be. Have you ever
wanted to ride a recumbent bicycle? Well, here is your
chance. De Ligfiets, which means ‚the recumbent
bike’ in Dutch, rents these relaxing bicycles for €25
per day. The store is only open three days a week,
but you can make an appointment for other days.
QOpen 14:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. J
Max Mobiel A-6, Voskenslaan 27, tel. (+32)
924 28 040, fax (+32) 924 28 049, max-mobiel@
gent.be, www.max-mobiel.be. Located behind
Sint-Pietersstation, you can rent a bicycle here for
€9 per day or €25 per week. Max Mobiel is primarily
aimed at local commuters, but tourists are welcome
as well.
People getting off at Dampoortstation can also collect a bike there. QOpen 07:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00
- 17:00. Closed Sun.
Trains
With 3513 kilometres of railroads,Belgium has one
of the densest railway networks in the world. Train
travel is the easiest way to get around in the country.
Gent-Sint-Pietersstation has trains departing in all directions.Every train that travels to or from Antwerp also
stops at Gent-Dampoort station. Belgium’s national
railway company, NMBS (SNCB in French), runs three
types of trains: Intercity trains (IC) are the quickest
ones, Interregio trains (IR) usually have a few more
stops and the slowest type is the Local train (L). For
departure times and fares, surf to www.b-rail.be.
Tickets can be bought at ticket offices, vending machines or from the conductor inside the train. If you buy
a ticket inside the train you have to pay a €3 surcharge
and you will have to immediately notify the conductor
(otherwise you could be fined).First class tickets are
about 50% more expensive than second class tickets,
but not really worth the extra money. A weekend ticket
Riding a bike is fun for the whole family
© Ghent City
Council
7
8
Basics
Read on and find out why the Belgian police do not allow
you to ride a bicycle with a passenger on the back seat,
along with many other useful Belgian facts.
Alcohol
Belgians love to go to the pub and enjoy the country’s
famously fresh beer, considered to be the national drink.
Most pubs serve Belgian beers of which the best known
are Jupiler, Maes and Stella, but in the city centre many
bars serve a much wider range of regional beers. Watch
out for the heavier stuff like Delirium Tremens (9%),
which makes you see pink elephants...For those who
stick around more than a day, city brewery Gruut -C-3- is
worth a visit. Restaurants, pubs and shops serve and sell
beer and wine to anyone over the age of 16, although to
buy and consume spirits you have to be 18. Speaking of
spirits, look out for the infamous Jenever: a potent liquor
that Belgians enjoy inflicting on tourists.
Mail & Phones
Postal delivery in Belgium is generally reliable. Wireless
internet is also sweeping the nation. Read here how to
keep in touch with your loved ones back home. Straight
from the bar or one of the many terraces.
Mobile phones
You can use your mobile phone if your provider has an
international roaming agreement with one of the mobile
phone networks of Belgium. Normally, if you’re abroad,
you have to pay roaming charges on all incoming and
outgoing calls, text messages, mms and internet.
Dialing All In Your Pocket guides list country codes
before all telephone numbers. The Belgian country code
is (+32).
Post
The Belgium postal system works more or less infallibly.
Letters and parcels are sent without ado across the whole
world. At post offices you can buy stamps and drop off
parcels. Posting a letter or a postcard within Belgium will
cost you €0.77, within Europe €1,13 and for the rest of
the world you pay €1.34. For parcel shipping prices and
the most up-to-date postage rates check www.bpost.be.
Some supermarkets have a ‚postpunt’, indicating that you
can buy stamps there and post your letters or parcels.
Postkantoor Gent Centrum B-3, Lange Kruisstraat
55, tel. (+32) 220 12 345, www.bpost.be. The post office
at Gent Centrum is the largest in the city centre. If wou want
to avoid the big crowds, come in the quieter periods (between
09:00-10:00, 13:00-14:00 or 17:00-18:00). Mail can also be
posted in the red letter boxes spread all over Ghent. QOpen
09:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. JU
Wireless internet
If you’d like to check your e-mail or just surf the web while
sipping a chai tea, just look for one of the many hotels,
bars, restaurants and cafes that offer free wireless
internet acces in their rooms. Many times you have to
ask the staff for the current password or fill in their phone
number, which actually also works most of the time. Just
look for the wifi symbol in this guide to find venues with
free wireless access.
Great Bradley Wiggins
Who knew? The first Englishman to ever win the Tour de
France, Bradley Wiggins, is a son of... Ghent.
Wiggins, who won Le Tour in 2012 and who will
start this year’s race as the favourite, was born in
Ghent in 1980, the son of an English mother Linda
and an Australian father, Gary. Wiggins Sr. was also
a professional cyclist, and at the time was riding for
the now defunct Marc-ARD team, which was based
in Ghent.
After his parents divorced in 1982, Wiggins moved
to England with his mother, and would not see his father
again for more than 14 years.
Living in Maida Vale, north London, Wiggins attended
the St Augustine’s Church of England High School, a
comprehensive in Kilburn at which his mother worked.
He began cycle racing at the age of 12 at the Herne Hill
Velodrome, recalling recently in an interview that: ‘At 12
I told my art teacher, I’m going to be Olympic champion,
I’m going to wear the yellow jersey in the Tour.’
And much more besides, he could have added. Wiggins’s career began in track cycling, specialising in the
pursuit and the Madison, before he gradually moved
into road racing.
He has won six cycling World Championships, his first
in 2003 and his most recent in 2008. He won a bronze
medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics, a gold, a silver
and a bronze at the 2004 Summer Olympics, two golds
at the 2008 Summer Olympics and another gold at the
2012 Summer Olympics.
After the 2008 Olympics, Wiggins took a break from
the track to focus on the road. Initially viewed as a time
trial specialist and as a rouleur, Wiggins showed his
ability in stage races when he came fourth in the 2009
Tour de France (later promoted to third after Lance
Armstrong’s results were voided in 2012). His first victory
in a major stage race came in the 2011 Critérium du
Dauphiné, and later that year finished third in the Vuelta
a España. He then took second in the time trial at the
2011 UCI Road World Championships.
In 2012 - besides winning the Tour and taking two
individual stages - Wiggins won the Paris–Nice, the Tour
de Romandie, the Critérium du Dauphiné, and the time
trial at the Olympics. He was then given a knighthood in
the Queen’s New Year honours list, but has since gone
on to say that he will not use the title Sir until he retires
from cycling.
Climate
While it’s usually cold and wet in winter and often warm
and dry in summer, but unfortunately you never really
know in this mild sea-climate. So it’s always wise to bring
a raincoat or an umbrella. Whatever the weather, Belgians
always find a reason to complain about it. A good website
to check the current weather in your favourite Belgian city
is www.meteo.be.
Cycling
Ghent is a great town to explore by bike. Even though a
lot of monuments are within walking distance of each
other, a bicycle gives you the chance to see more in less
time. A couple of cycling routes will get you to the different
corners of the town and then beyond. Bikers pretty much
reign the city. They can cycle in almost every street and a
part of the historical centre is car-free. Overall, Ghent is
Basics
as flat as a pancake, but don’t misjudge the steep streets
surrounding the Blandijnberg. Those streets make you
crave you had the stamina of a top Belgian cyclist like Tom
Boonen. A couple of things to keep in mind: beware of the
tramlines, as once your wheel gets stuck in it, you will fall.
Remember to always lock your bike because - to the frustration of many bikers - stealing bikes is the national sport
of Belgium’s rascals. And don’t even think about having
your loved one (or anyone else) riding on the back of your
bike, as the police will hit you with a heavy fine.
Disabled travellers
Most public places and facilities in Ghent are accessible for disabled travellers. Most pavements have
been adapted with rubber strips, and traffic lights at
crossings have clicking systems. Accessible Travel
Info Point is a service of the Flemish Tourist Board that
people with disabilities can consult when travelling to
Flanders. If you’re travelling by train in wheelchair, the
Belgian rail system asks to go get in touch with the station of departure at least - believe it or not - 24 hours
in advance.
Electricity
The electrical current is 220V AC, 50Hz. European
plugs are a must. At least if you wanna be connected to
the outside world...
Emergency numbers
Dial the European emergency number 112 in case of
emergency. The number will connect you with local police, ambulance or fire department. For all other cases
(for instance Anonymous Alcoholics, the Drugsline and
Abusement of Elders hotline - really), just surf to www.
noodnummer.be.
Health & Safety
Ghent is a relatively safe city for residents and tourists,
but you should watch out for pickpockets. Obviously,
don’t leave your belongings unattended and use
common sense at all times. There is a large police
presence in the centre. Nevertheless, try to avoid
unlit streets and parks late at night. As mentioned
elsewhere, bicycle theft is common so a good lock is
essential.
Local time
From the last weekend of March till the last weekend
of October, Belgium is in the Central European Summer
Time Zone, or GMT+2. During the rest of the year the
clock ticks according to the Central European Time
Zone, or GMT+1 .
Facts & Figures
Population (Belgium): 10,839,905 (in 2010)
Longest rivers: Maas (Meuse) an Schelde (Scheldt)
Highest point: Botrange (694m)
Length of Belgian coastline: 66,5 km
Land area: 30.528 km²
Borders: Belgium has borders with the Netherlands,
Germany, Luxembourg and France.
Capital: Brussels
Language
Dutch is spoken in Flanders, the upper part of Belgium.
Although it is almost identical to the language used
in the Netherlands, in Belgium the Dutch language is
called Flemish. In Flanders, most people have a fairly
good knowledge of English. Next to Dutch, Belgium
also has French and German as national languages.
Almost 60 per cent of the Belgian population speaks
Dutch. French is the common language in Brussels
and Wallonia (the southern part of the country). Only
one per cent of the countrys population uses German
as its mother tongue, spoken in a few communities in
the east of Belgium.
Useful Phrases in Dutch
How are you? Hoe is het ermee?
Pleased to meet you. Aangename kennismaking.
Do you speak English? Spreekt u Engels?
Where is the nearest shop, hotel, restaurant, bar
or toilet?
Is er een winkel, een hotel, een restaurant, een café of
een toilet in de buurt?
What’s your name? Wat is uw naam?
My name is … Mijn naam is ...
What time is it? Hoe laat is het?
How much? Hoeveel kost dit?
Hello Hallo
Good morning Goeiemorgen
Good evening Goeieavond
Goodnight Goeienacht
Goodbye Daaaaag
Yes Ja
No Nee
Maybe Misschien
Thank you Bedankt
Days of the week
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Numbers
1 een
2 twee
3 drie
4 vier
5 vijf
6 zes 7 zeven
8 acht 9 negen
10 tien 11 elf
12 twaalf
maandag
dinsdag
woensdag
donderdag
vrijdag
zaterdag
zondag
13 dertien
14 veertien
15 vijftien
16 zestien
17 zeventien
18 achttien
19 negentien
20 twintig
21 eenentwintig
100 honderd
500 vijfhonderd
Street smarts
Street, road
straat
Square / Market plein
Airport luchthaven
Port
haven
Bus station busstation
Train station treinstation
Taxi taxi
9
10
Basics
Money
Smoking
Since 2002, a large part of the European Union has adopted the euro as its local currency and Belgium is no exception. One euro contains 100 euro cents. There are coins
of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 euro cents, and also of 1 and 2
euro. Banknotes are available with the following values:
5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Although a collection of
€200 and €500 bills in your wallet might make you feel like
the richest man on the planet, bear in mind that they’re
almost never accepted in shops or restaurants. You can
exchange and withdraw money at most large banks; there
are plenty in the city centre. All Belgian banks accept
Visa and MasterCard at their cash dispensers and there
are ATMs all over Ghent. Many restaurants, hotels and
shops accept credit cards, although a lot of grocery stores
require a minimum purchase. Most bars only accept cash.
Since July 2011, smoking in all bars and nightclubs has
only been allowed in separate smoking rooms, extending
a smoking ban that forbade smoking in public places and
restaurants. The majority of bars comply with the smoking
ban, but in some places, the owner (usually a smoker
himself) will still allow his clients to smoke. From 2014 (at
the latest) the law will be tightened even more.
Consulates
Central Africa Gouvernementstraat 16, tel.
(+32) 923 42 969, consulaat.centraal.afrika@
pandora.be.
Congo Rozemarijnstraat 47, tel. (+32) 922 32
045, [email protected].
Cote D’Ivoir Kouter 71/72, tel. (+32) 922 30
Danmark Noorwegenstraat 11, tel. (+32) 925
44 480, [email protected].
Finland Gouvernementstraat 20, tel. (+32) 922
France H. Frère-Orbanlaan 376, tel. (+32) 922
Guatemala Prinsenhof 38, tel. (+32) 922 31
Italy Oude Heirweg 6, tel. (+32) 938 08 668,
[email protected].
Jemen J.Plateaustraat 49, tel. (+32) 922 50
Lithuania Coupure 371, tel. (+32) 922 30 258,
[email protected].
Namibia Vinkendal 15, tel. (+32) 922 65 506,
[email protected].
Oeganda Nelemeerstraat 31, tel. (+32) 928 25
Peru Koningin Astridlaan 185, tel. (+32) 922 18
Poland Lange Kruisstraat 7, tel. (+32) 473 400
Rwanda Gentstraat 1 3, tel. (+32) 938 45
Senegal Deinsesteenweg 109, tel. (+32) 927 72
Slovakia Lange Kruisstraat 7, tel. (+32) 923 54
935, arnold.vanhaecke@unizo-oost-vlaanderen.
be.
South-Korea Bij Sint-Jacob 15, tel. (+32) 922
Spain Tentoonstellingslaan 54, tel. (+32) 926
The Netherlands Recollettenlei 12, tel. (+32)
922 51 816, [email protected].
Tunisia Kortrijksesteenweg 1004, tel. (+32) 922
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory, but if you think the service was
fine, a tip is always appreciated by the staff. Tips vary from
20 cents to €5, or a rounding up of the bill.
Toilets
On the occasion of World Toilet Day on 19 November, the
city of Ghent highlighted its inner-city public toilet facilities.
It issued a ‚WC map’ in Dutch and English which is available
free of charge from the Tourism Office or the Ghent city
shop. A great souvenir, the map currently only shows public
toilet facilities in the inner city where the ring road and the
railway stations of Gent Sint-Pieters and Gent Dampoort
demarcate the border. Within this area, all public toilets,
toilets for the disabled, toilets with nappy changing facilities
and urinals are shown on the map.
Ladies (Dames) or Gents (Heren) is written on ll toilet doors.
When you have to go badly, note that it’s not generally
accepted simply to barge into a café or restaurant: staff will
appreciate if you ask in advance. If you see a saucer by the
toilets, then you’re expected to donate a small amount of
money for toilet maintenance; 20 or 50 cents is fine.
Water
Any of the European countries that are part of the European Union have very similar, strict standards to drinking
water regulations. You can rest assured that it’s safe to be
drinking water from the tap here, with some experts even
saying it’s better to drink tap water then to drink bottled
water, since the tap variety is filtered of chalk and other
minerals.
National holidays
On national holidays, almost all shops, restaurants and
public places are closed. If the holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday some places make the bridge with the
weekend and take the extra day.
During school holidays expect shopping streets, historical attractions and public transport to be more crowded.
Take this in consideration when booking your trip.
21 July 2013: Belgian National Day
15 August 2013: Assumption Day
1 November 2013: All Saints’ Day
11 November 2013: Armistice Day
25 December 2013: Christmas
1 January 2014: New Year
School holidays
Summer holiday: 1 July- 31 August 2013
Autumn half-term break: 28 October - 3 November
2013
Spring half-term break: 3 - 9 March 2014
Easter holiday: 7 - 20 April 2014
history
7th century
Amandus (who would eventually be proclaimed a saint after a
long life of hardship and persecution trying to evangelize the
pagans of northern Europe) founded two abbeys: one at Lys
(the Ganda Abbey) and one upstream at Scheldt (the St. Pieters Abbey). One of his followers, Bavo, a rich nobleman who
gave all his possessions away to live as a hermit in Ganda,
was such an inspiration for so many people in the area that
the abbey of Ganda was later named after him, becoming
the St Baaf’s Abbey we know today. Politically, Ghent was
as this stage part of the Germanic empire.
9th - 10th century
After surviving two Viking excursions, Lys and Scheldt - both
boasting harbours - grew around the nucleus of the St. Baaf’s
and St. Pieter’s Abbeys and became increasingly strong,
powerful and rich settlements; by the end of the 10th century
they were part of the French empire.
12th - 13th century
English wool and French grain were imported via the harbours
at Lys and Scheldt. They became the pillars of what turned
out to be a very thriving textile and grain business in medieval
Ghent. Throughout the Middle Ages Ghent had a population
of about 65,000 making it larger than London, Cologne or
Antwerp. Moreover Ghent was, after Paris, the biggest and
wealthiest city north of the Alps. During this time the Count
of Flanders, in fact a representative of the French king, had
his wooden castle enlarged, fortified and transformed into
an expensive stone edifice, the Castle of the Counts we
know it today. He had it build not so much to defend the city
against foreign invaders but to impress and keep an eye on
the rich, powerful and - most of all - headstrong and rebellious citizens of Ghent.
Noose-bearers
Why are the citizens of Ghent called
the noose-bearers? To answer
this question, we go back to 1540.
Then the people of Ghent revolted
against Charles V, the ruler of the
Holy Roman Empire, who imposed
on them yet another war tax. As
the citizens refused to pay, the
emperor decided to personally set
things right in his hometown. He
demanded all aldermen, deans and burghers of the lower
working classes make a public show of contrition. Fifty of
the burghers thus had to wear a noose round their neck,
as if ready the gallows.
In the eyes of outsiders, all residents of Ghent shared
the fate of the burghers and were thenceforth nicknamed
the noose-bearers. The people of Ghent were not
amused with the name and imposed strict sanctions
on people caught using it.
Nowadays, however, the prople of Ghent are proud
to be called noose-bearers or ‘stropkes’. The noose is
a symbol of the town’s resistance against every form of
tyranny and misplaced authority. During official ceremonies or the Gentse Feesten, you will come across people
wearing a noose around their neck. At the Bachtenwalle,
there’s a 1.80m statue of a noose-bearer. A little detail:
he’s looking proudly in the direction of the gate of the
Prince’s Court, where the emperor was born. Another
(not so little) detail, is the ‘masculinity’ of the statue.
They say it only illustrates that there was a strong wind
on the evening of the confession...
14th century
During the 100 years war between England and France,
Edward III forbade all exports of English wool to Flanders
and to Ghent. After all Flanders was, albeit reluctantly, part
of the French crown. As a result, the cloth halls were empty
and about 60 per cent of the population of Ghent was unemployed. After two years of famine and riots, the people
of Ghent were starving and desperate.
It was at this point that Jacob Van Artevelde, presumably
a textile businessman, negotiated with the English king and
the ‘weak’ Count of Flanders (who had fled for France when
rioting broke out). His strategy was to convince both of them
to give Ghent, from an economic point of view, neutral status.
After all, nobody gained from a starving, rebellious city, which
had nothing to produce and nothing to lose. Van Artevelde
succeeded in his mission and wool once again became the
source of Ghent’s well-being. Van Artevelde became a hero
in Ghent and even today the city is known as the Artevelde
city.
15th century
Ghent became part of the Burgundian empire and attracted
the rich and famous looking for luxurious textiles, garments
and art.
Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, supported several
Flemish artists (the so-called Flemish Primitives, such as
Jan Van Eyck) and played an important role in establishing
Flanders as an important and trendsetting European arts
centre. It was in this time that the brothers Van Eyck painted
their world famous polyptych, the Adoration of the Mystic
Lamb (1432).
Politically the dukes tried to centralize power and taken
the regions, a policy against which the citizens of Ghent
often rebelled. Nevertheless, the dukes of Burgundy often
enjoyed their holidays at the Prinsenhof in Ghent, a wonderful
palace located at on of the canals. They had it build as an
alternative to the dark and humid Castle of the Counts. The Prinsenhof was a lusthof, filled with music and
dance, gardens and ponds and even a zoo with lions. Unfortunately, little now remains of what was once one of the
most spectacular palaces in Europe. The area it occupied
is still called Prinsenhof, however.
16th century
On February 24th of the year 1500, Charles the V was born
at Prinsenhof and later baptized in the St. Baaf’s Cathedral.
Born out of a marriage of Joanna of Castile and Philip the
Fair, Duke of Burgundy, he would become an emperor unlike
few the world had seen. Reigning over what is nowadays the
Netherlands, Belgium, a part of France, Germany, Austria,
Spain, a part of Italy and all the colonies of Spain in South
America made him the ruler of an empire on which ’the sun
never sets.’
Although Charles V spent most of his time abroad battling
against his lifelong enemy Francois I of France, he liked to
return once every few years to his home town of Ghent. His
home was of course Prinsenhof. 1540: A crucial date for
Ghent. After being away for three years, Charles V is called
back urgently to Ghent by his sister and governess, Mary of
Hungary, who is facing opposition to the taxes being imposed
on the citizens of Ghent. The city, tired of paying for Charles’
wars, refuses to pay. The atmosphere is tense and riots are
frequent.
Charles returns to Ghent together with an arms of 10,000
soldiers and punishes his hometown. Symbollically, on
February 24th, his 40th birthday, Charles ordered the most
influential and rebellious citizens to walk in procession to the
Prinsenhof, bare foot, dressed only in a simple white shirt,
with a black and white noose around their neck. They were
then forced to publicly ask him forgiveness.
11
12
history
Unwilling to take anymore risks, Charles commissioned
the building of a new fortress in Ghent in which numerous
Spanish soldiers would be stationed to make sure that
the citizens of Ghent wouldn’t be in a position to rebel
anymore.
These events gave the people of Ghent the unfortunate
nickname of Stroppendragers (noose wearers). However,
the nickname soon became a badge of honour, a symbol
of rebelliousness, freedom and of a proud Ghent identity.
Besides the political turmoil, Reformation and CounterReformation colored 16th century Ghent. Traditionally
a catholic region, the people of Ghent were very critical
towards an increasingly decadent catholic church and many
converted to Protestantism, risking life and limb by doing so.
Charles V - and especially his son Philip II of Spain - burned
many of the reformers, and their books, at the stake. It
was at this stage that St Jan’s Church became St Baaf’s
Cathedral and a bishop was inaugurated.
Finally, the international textile business shifted from
refined wool towards less expensive fabrics such as linen,
velvet and flax. These economic changes together with
growing competition hit Ghent hard.
17th century
The 17th century was a time of economic decline for Ghent. The power of the guilds was broken and on top of that
Ghent lost its privileges in the grain business. Due to the
inquisition and the Counter-Reformation, a lot of citizens
fled to the Netherlands as a result of which the population
of Ghent declined to 30.000 inhabitants at the beginning
of the 17th century.
18th century
Ghent became part of the Holy Roman Empire, led by Maria
Theresia and her son, Emperor Jozef II. Under the Austrians
canals were dug, widened and deepened in order to facilitate
bigger ships coming into the harbours of Ghent. Times were
starting to look better again, especially at the end of the
century when Lieven Bauwens smuggled a semi-automatic
spinning machine out of England and brought it to Ghent. It
marked the start of what would be a thriving 19th century.
At the end of the 18th century Ghent once again became a
part of France, only to be handed to the Netherlands after
the battle of Waterloo.
19th century
Willem I and the citizens of Ghent found common interest
and connected quite well. Willem founded Ghent University
(1817), had the Ghent-Terneuzen canal dug as well as a new
harbour (1827) built in the north of the city, thanks to which
Ghent became an important seaport.
Ghent transformed itself into the most important
cotton city in continental Europe in the 19th century, importing cotton from the US, India and many other places.
Over 1500 factories were built within the city walls and
the population exploded: from 55,000 at the beginning
of the 19th century to 160.000 at the end of the century.
Working conditions however were harsh and Ghent was
once again rebelling: this time fighting for better working
conditions. Most of modern Belgium’s trade unions were
founded in those days, in Ghent. 1830: Belgium became
an independent state. The city council - together with the
wealthy textile class - opposed the new state. They called
themselves Orangists, wanting to remain part of the
Netherlands.
What’s in a name?
The name Gent comes from the word Ganda, an old
Celtic word which means ‘confluence’. The Celts used
Ganda to indicate their settlement at the confluence of
the two rivers in Ghent, the Lys (Leie) and the Scheldt
(Schelde). Under Roman occupation (1st-4th century)
the name Ganda survived, changing in the Middle Ages,
when it gradually became Gand, Ghendt, Ghent and
finally Gent.
1918: Although the First (and Second) World War hit Ghent
hard, it was able to save a large part of its architectural
heritage. Many unemployed people were employed during
the war to enlarge Ghent harbour.
1934: A panel of the priceless altar piece The Adoration of
the Mystic Lamb is stolen: it has never been found.
1938: Corneille Heymans receivers the Nobel Prize for
Medicine.
Fifties & Sixties: After the Second World War, the port of
Ghent developed into a modern industrial area, a centre of
the car and steel industries. The port of Ghent becomes
the third most important in Belgium, attracting businesses
from all over the world. The textile industry however further
declines.
1968: Ghent’s Festivals are revived, and today more than
1.5 million visitors take part in what - at 10 days and 10
nights - is one of the biggest festivals in Europe.
1969: A canal (the Ringvaart) is dug in order to connect the
Lys and the Scheldt and numerous other canals, allowing
ships to reach the new port in the north of Ghent without
going through the city centre. Since then the former medieval
harbours at Lys and Scheldt - no longer useful - have become
popular hangouts for Ghent’s hippest inhabitants.
1977: Ghent unifies all its districts and surroundings into
one big city.
1999: The Belfry, the Cloth Hall and the beguinages are
proclaimed Unesco World Heritage sites.
21st century
2009: Ghent is appointed as Unesco Creative City of Music
2012: About 240,000 people currently live in Ghent, as well
as about 70,000 students. Ghent University is blossoming,
as result of which Ghent has become a strong research and
development centre. Contemporary Ghent is a vibrant mix
of all kinds of people living in a stunning historical setting.
It is no wonder that both National Geographic and Lonely
Planet have declared Ghent as one of 10 must-see places
in the world.
20th century
1911: Maurice Maeterlinck receives the Nobel Prize for
Literature 1913: Ghent hosts the World Exhibition, for which
many of the city’s finest buildings were renovated. 1914-
Lichtfestival, lightens up your winter
© Visit-Gent
Culture & Events
Ballet & Opera
Vlaamse Opera B-3, Schouwburgstraat 3, tel.
(+32) 926 81 011, fax (+32) 922 38 726, info@
vlaamseopera.be, www.vlaamseopera.be. The building we know as the Flanders Opera was opened in 1840.
City architect Louis Roelandt built the opera, together
with the cour t house and the La Concorde ballroom,
creating a unique architectural effect in the Kouter square
neighbourhood. The three banquet halls are 90 meters in
length, while the auditorium seats 1002 people and has
an impressive three-metre diameter chandelier. Q Open
11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. Next to working hours,
the box office opens 1 hour before each performance.
JAUL
Want to go for a picknick on the river?
© Visit-Gent
Markets, Festivals & Events
Friday, Saturday & Sunday mornings
Flea market around St. Jakobschurch (C-2)
Friday morning
Farmers‘ market at Groentenmarkt (B-2)
Sunday morning
Flower market at Kouter (B-3)
Sunday morning
Market around St. Michielschurch (B-2)
Sunday morning
Book market at Ajuinlei (B-3) (if it’s sunny)
Date
Event
Venue
July
1 July – 31 August
Parkkaffee
more info&updates @parkkaffee.be
Parkkaffee
11 – 14
Gent Jazz Festival
more info&updates @gentjazz.com
BIJ
20 – 29
Gentse Feesten
more info&updates @gentsefeesten.be
City centre
31 July – 29
September
DOK beach
more info&updates @dokgent.be
DOK
9 – 11
Patersholfeesten
more info&updates @patershol.be
Patershol
Every Thursday
DOK open air cinema
DOK
Every Sunday
DOK flea market
DOK
Open Monumentsday
OdeGand Ghent, Gent Festival of Flanders
more info&updates @gentfestival.be
De Beloften, music festival
more info&updates @democrazy.be
Different locations
August
September
8
14 – 20
21
Different locations
October
8 – 19
17
19
Film Festival Gent
more info&updates @filmfestival.be
Scoring for Scorsese
World Soundtrack Awards
Kinepolis, Sphinx, Studio Skoop
BIJ
Kuipke Gent
December
13, 14
Glimps Festival music festival
more info&updates @glimpsgent.be
different locations
13
14
Culture & Events
minutes’ walk from the city centre. In its four concert halls,
De Bijloke puts on classic music from ancient to symphonic,
from classical western to eastern music and even some
jazz. The music centre forms part of the De Bijloke world
heritage site and combines historical and contemporary
architecture with greenery. Until a quarter of a century ago,
the main activity of the site was to take care of the sick. The
concert hall of the music centre for example is a gigantic
medieval hospital that dates back to the 13th century. Look
out for the spectacular oak ceiling. QOpen 10:00 - 12:00 &
13:00-17:00, Sat 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. The day
of the concert the ticket office opens one hour before the
concert. AUEKW
Concert halls
O8 ›19 OCT 2O13
www.filmfestival.be
Flanders Expo Maaltekouter 1, tel. (+32) 924 19
211, fax (+32) 924 19 325, [email protected],
www.flandersexpo.be. Just 10 km from Ghent you will
find Flanders Expo, which organizes large-scale exhibitions,
parties and concerts. Bruce Springsteen, Prince, Sting, Tina
Turner and U2 are some of the artists that have performed
here. Q AULE
Handelsbeurs B-3, Kouter 29, tel. (+32) 926 59 165,
fax (+32) 923 35 576, [email protected], www.
handelsbeurs.be. Both established artists and new music
revelations play at Handelsbeurs. The concert house offers world music, jazz, blues and pop rock, but also has a
strong program of classical music. QOpen 10:00 - 12:30
& 13:30-17:30, Sat 10:00 - 12:30 & 13:00-16:30. Closed
Sun. JAULE
Galleries
Fortlaan 17 B-6, Fortlaan 17, tel. (+32) 922 20 033,
[email protected], www.fortlaan17.com. Gallery
Fortlaan 17 is two floors of contemporary art. Facing the
Kinepolis C-5, Ter Platen 12, tel. (+32) 926 50 600, fax Citadelpark it exhibits contemporary artists from home and
13-289_inyou_60bx90h.indd
1
6/06/13
11:26 young artists and Belgian talents. Fortlaan 17 is loabroad,
(+32) 926 50 606, [email protected], www.kinepolis.
cated in one of the few Art Nouveau houses in Ghent. QOpen
com. Kinepolis is the biggest cinema in Ghent and the place
for commercial and 3D movies. The cinema is located not far
14:00 - 18:00, Sat 12:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun.
from Sint-Pieters square. During the Film Festival Gent , most
Gallery Tatjana Pieters Nieuwevaart 124, tel. (+ 32)
movies are shown here. Q Weekdays, weekends and holidays
932 44 529, [email protected]. Gallery Tatjana
Pieters introduces and supports Belgian talent as well as
from 13:00, Christmas holiday from 10:00. TAULG
Sphinx Cinema B-2, Sint-Michielshelling 3, tel. (+32) promoting international artists. Tatjana Pieters her way of
thinking is: show local, act global, and her gallery is located
922 56 086, fax (+32) 923 35 253, info@sphinx-cinema.
in an old warehouse in the industrial area of Ghent. With a
be, www.sphinx-cinema.be. Sphinx is another art-house
unique exhibition space of 400 m², this gallery is a must.
cinema, showing European and non-Western movies. The
building, located near the Korenmarkt, was built in 1912
QOpen 14:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue. AL
and has always been used as a cinema. It has five screens
Zebrastraat C-5, Zebrastraat 32, tel. (+32) 471 31 00
on three floors, which means lots of stairs. Sphinx cinema
01, www.zebrastraat.be/. Zebrastraat brings together
has a nice bar and terrace, where you can enjoy a pre- or
housing, culture and economy. Next to five congress rooms
post-movie drink. J
and 70 residences, you can find ta 750m² exhibition that
Studio Skoop C-3, Sint-Annaplein 63, tel. (+32) 922 50 displays the work of artists who combine contemporary art
with technology. Zebrastraat is located just outside the city
845, fax (+32) 923 37 522, [email protected], www.
centre, but occasionally hides a gem that makes it worth a
studioskoop.be. A small art-house cinema, close to the Zuid
visit. On the roof of the Zebrastraat site, there are two glossy,
site, that shows quality non-commercial films on five screens.
yellow constructions, each 12 metre long, 6 metres wide and
Studio Skoop has been around for 40 years and even though
3 metres high. Don’t forget to look up when you are in the area!
the seats were recently renewed, the cinema still gives off an
old, but cosy, atmosphere. After the movie, don’t leave without
QOpen 14:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue. GB
having a drink at the Studio Skoop Café where old cinema
seats, retro movie posters and portraits of Scarlett Johansson
and Marlene Dietrich make you feel part of it all. Q Ticket office
opens 30 minutes before each movie. TJL
Café De Loge A-3, Annonciadenstraat 5, tel. (+32)
922 53 438, www.deloge.be. This congenial bar puts on
a free concert every Wednesday evening with many singer
songwriters passing through. Every fourth Tuesday of the
De Bijloke C-4, Jozef Kluyskensstraat 2, tel. (+32) month, Café De Loge gives an open stage to a handful of
beginner songwriters. Q Open 11:30 - 01:00, Sat, Sun
923 36 878, fax (+32) 922 56 582, [email protected],
wwww.debijloke.be. De Bijloke Music Centre is located 10
09:00 - 01:00. JAB
Cinema
Live Music
Classical music
Culture & Events
Café Video C-2, Oude Beestenmarkt 7, info@cafe-
video.be, www.cafevideo.be. Café Video is a popular
bar with live music from up-and-coming bands during the
week and live DJ’s on Fridays and Saturdays. All concerts
are free and start at 21:30. QOpen 20:00 - 06:00. Closed
Sun. Open on Sunday when there is a concert planned.
JEGB
Charlatan C-2, Vlasmarkt 6, tel. (+32) 922 42 457, info@
charlatan.be, charlatan.be. Charlatan has a live band or DJ
more or less daily. Music genres vary from rock, rhythm & blues
and soul to indie, pop and punk. Everything find its way to Charlatan: as long as it’s cool. Charlatan’s motto: Lean back and relax
or get up and dance. Concerts start at 22:00, unless otherwise
stated. QOpen 19:00 - 06:00. Closed Mon. JEGB
Club Reserva B-2, Jan Breydelstraat 32, tel. (+32) 489
11 63 95, [email protected], www.clubreserva.be.
Every Thursday a fine concert takes place here, either in the
afternoon or in the evening. Club Reserva mainly offers jazz, but
now and then you can come here to listen to a classical violinist, some country, blues, rock and roll or folk. Brand new is the
‚mastel’ stand outside this bar, where you can buy this typical
speciality from Ghent. A mastel is a round bread, similar to a
sandwich roll, spiced with cinnamon with a hole in the middle.
Younes Benzaza opened Mastelle&Co, and he will serve you
savoury and sweet variations of this typical bun with a big smile!
QOpen , Thu 19:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 03:00. Closed
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. JE
DOK D-1, Koopvaardijlaan, tel. (+32) 922 41 940,
www.dokgent.be. Port area Dok provides a space for
small scale rock and pop concerts. Many of these concerts
are organized by Democrazy, an event organizer with an eye
for everything that’s hot and new. Concerts can take place
at the DOKcanteen (free) or at the DOKarena, an amphitheatre made of earth and grass. When it’s raining those
concerts move to the DOKbox. Dok also installs a beach
every summer, where you can enjoy movies, concerts or even
flea markets on this city beach. Very child- and dogfriendly.
T6UILENGBKXW
Hot Club de Gand B-2, Schuddevisstraatje - Groentemarkt 15b, tel. (+32) 486 74 07 99, [email protected], www.hotclubdegand.be. This music venue offers
a wide range of music: mainly jazz but there’s also room for
flamenco, folk, classical music, blues, chanson, musette, ethnic
music and gypsy music. Live music more or less every day.
QOpen 15:00 - 02:00. JEGBX
Hotsy Totsy A-2, Hoogstraat 1, tel. (+32) 922 42 012,
[email protected], www.hotsytotsy.be. At Hotsy Totsy,
known for its poetry and music in a 1920/30s inspired-interior,
the music ranges from jazz, swing and 20s-30s tunes to blues
and French chansons. From October until May, an artist hits the
stage on Thursday and every third Wednesday of the month.
During the Gentse Feesten, this pub keeps going on a diet of
French chansons and rockabilly. JE
Kinky Star C-2, Vlasmarkt 9, tel. (+32) 933 57 342,
[email protected], www.kinkystar.com. For 15 years,
music center Kinky Star has been an independent record
label, a radio show and a club with two weekly concerts.
Kinky Star does not limit itself to one specific style and
plays Flemish hiphop, electro and heaps of rock: indierock,
garagerock, bluesrock, noiserock, surfrock, stonerrock... You
get the idea. All concerts start at 21:30, sharp. DJ sets at
22:00. QOpen 18:00 - 03:00, Tue, Sun 18:00 - 01:00. Closed
Mon, Wed. JEGW
La Resistenza C-3, Brabantdam 82, tel. (+32) 925
60 967, [email protected], www.la-resistenza.
com. In its cellar, music venue La Resistenza hosts jazz
concerts with expansions to funk, soul and other genres.
Every Friday and Saturday, DJ Cellar Sessions at 21:45.
QOpen 11:45 - 05:00, Sat 18:00 - 05:00. Closed Wed, Sun.
JEBKW
Minor Swing C-1, Ottogracht 58, tel. (+32) 494 90 64
83. At this tiny bar, there’s only room for up to 30 people but
there is always room for some swing. Every first and third
Tuesday of the month, they play live swing and jazz. QOpen
18:00 - 03:00. JENGB
Trefpunt C-2, Bij Sint-Jacobs 18, tel. (+32) 922 53 676,
fax (+32) 923 31 037, [email protected], www.trefpunt.
be. Every Monday evening, a soloist, a small band or a theatre
company play here. During the weekend, things get louder at
their concert hall. As with many venues in Ghent, it’s hard to
lump the music of this place together: it goes from jazz and
folk to blues and world music. During the Gentse Feesten, the
Trefpuntfestival stages more than 160 concerts at nine locations. QOpen 17:00 - 03:00, Fri 16:00 - 03:00. JEG
Exhibitions
Date
To 18 August
To 25 August 2013
To 15 September 2013
To 29 September
To 31 December 2013
1 May - 1 December 2013
22 May – 6 October 2013
22 May – 6 October 2013
Event
Koen Theys – Home-made victories
Evgenia Arbugaeve
En avant, marche
Onder Stroom
1001 Dots: exhibition for children
100 years Vooruit
Fondation Francès – In alle staten
Gideon Kiefer – Drawings
Private collection selected by #1 / Collection vqc by Anneke
11 July-25 August
Eussen
19 July – 27 October 2013
Peter de Greef, illustrator of sheet music
11 October- 26 January 2014 Expo Martin Scorsese
15 September-20 October
Bart De Clercq
27 October – 21 December
Heide Hinrichs
27 October – 21 December
Allison Hrabluik
1 November– 29 June 2014
War and Trauma
8 December 2013 – 12
Im-/Ex-Plicit / Concept by Luc Derycke & Tatjana Pieters
January 2014
To 01 July 2017
artworks
To 31 December 2017
The Ghent Alterpiece
Venue
SM
SPA
HVA
MIAT
KT
STAM
GUI
GUI
GTP
DES
CK
GTP
GTP
GTP
GUI
GTP
MSK
CK
15
Culture & Events
16
White Cat B-1, Drongenhof 40, tel. (+32) 496 18 91
89, [email protected], www.whitecat.be. White Cat
is a seventies bar with James Bond interiors and lots of live
jam sessions and DJ’s giving you hip hop, soul, funk, rock ‚n
roll and disco. It’s also the place to go and score a good drink,
and even to try out your dancing shoes... QOpen , Wed, Thu,
Fri, Sat 21:00 - .... Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JEG
Theatre & Music
Arts centre Vooruit C-4, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 23,
tel. (+32) 926 72 820, fax (+32) 926 72 838, info@
vooruit.be, www.vooruit.be. At Vooruit Arts Centre, located
in an art-deco monument built in 1913, the historic decor
reconciles with the theatre, dance, literature, new media
Classical & Opera
Date
Time
Event
Venue
21
15:00
Pascal Amoyel&Mickaël Lipari-Mayer
SBA
22
15:00
Severin von Eckardstein & Simone Easthorpe
SBA
24
15:00
Ekaterina Levental, Eva Tebbe & Anouk Sturtewagen
SBA
25
15:00
Olalla Alemán & Jan van Outryve
SBA
18
20:15
Openingsconcert: Sara Mingardo (alt) & Stefano Gibellato (klavecimbel,
piano)
HB
28
20:00
Le Poème Harmonique : Te Deum!
BIJ
3
20:00
deFilharmonie
BIJ
4
20:15
Daniil Trifonov (piano)
HB
5
20:00
Symfonieorkest Vlaanderen : Feesten tot der dood
BIJ
10
20:00
Severin von Eckardstein (piano)
BIJ
11
20:15
Isabelle van Keulen (violinl) & Ulrike Payer (piano)
HB
17
20:00
Auryn Quartett
MZ
17,20,23,26
15:00,
18:00
Tristan & Isolde
DVO
July
September
October
20
11:00
Tom Van der Schueren(piano)
HB
21
20:15
Patricia Kopachinskaja (violin) & Markus Hinterhauser (piano)
HB
25
20:00
Spectra: birthday concert
BIJ
26
20:15
Ictus
HB
November
13
20:15
Fauré Quartett (pianoquartet)
HB
17
15:00
L'orchestre des Champs-Elysées : Requiem Fauré
BIJ
20,22,23,24,26
15:00,
20:00
Tosca
DVO
22
20:00
Symfonieorkest Vlaanderen
BIJ
21
20:15
Tae-Hyung Kim (piano)
HB
28
20:15
Antje Weithaas (violin), Tanja Tetzlaff (cello) & Alexander Lonquich
(piano)
HB
30
20:00
Cuarteto Casals
MZ
December
7
20:15
Daan Vandewalle (piano) & Keiko Shichijo (klavecimbel)
HB
20
20:00
De Filharmonie
BIJ
11
20:00
Symfonieorkest Vlaanderen
BIJ
9,11,14,17,19
15:00,
20:00
Der Rosenkavalier
DVO
January
15
20:15
Isabelle Faust (violin) & Alexander Melnikov (piano) HB
19
15:00
Belgische Kamerfilharmonie
BIJ
Culture & Events
and music on offer. In the indoor café all ages mingle to have
something to eat, drink, work or read the newspaper. Now
and then upcoming musicians play free gigs at the café. Come
here during the Gentse Feesten, for a special treat of 10
days of techno, house and electro. And yes, attentive readers may have noticed that we have a birthday to celebrate:
Vooruit exists exactly 100 years! Between the 1st of May and
the 1st of December, there will be a lot of extra activities,
putting ‘100’ in the picture. Check the website regularly! And
let’s drink a Triomfbeer to that ( a beer brewn especially for
this occassion, don’t you just love the Belgians?) QOpen
10:00 - 02:00, Mon, Tue 10:00 - 01:00, Sun 16:00 - 01:00.
JAUEGKW
bij’De Vieze Gasten Haspelstraat 31, tel. (+32) 923
70 407, [email protected], www.deviezegasten.
org. ‚De Vieze Gasten’ is a socio-cultural platform located
at the heart of the Brugse Poort, a multicultural area on the
outskirts of Ghent. Music, theatre, cabaret, stand up comedy
shows, circusacts, all of this and many more activities are
to be enjoyed here.
Campo C-2, Nieuwpoort 31-35, tel. (+32) 922 30 000,
[email protected], www.campo.nu. Art centre CAMPO creates and hosts small and big productions from home and
abroad. Plays take place at three different sites: Victoria
(Fratersplein 7), Nieuwpoort (Nieuwpoort 31-35) and Boma
(Bomastraat 36). J
Capitole C-4, Graaf Van Vlaanderenplein 5, tel. (+32)
923 30 388, fax (+32) 922 58 896, info@capitolegent.
be, www.musichall.be. Capitole was once one of the most
beautiful cinemas in the country, but in the 1980s it was
closed, and then stood empty for fourteen years. In October
2001, the totally renovated art deco theater opened again
with the musical Camelot. Now Capitole still is a venue for
musicals, but also hosts international dance, Dutch comedy
and music from past and present. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00, Sat
12:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PTJALEGW
Intercultural centre De Centrale Kraankinderstraat
2, tel. (+32) 926 59 828, fax (+32) 926 59 824, [email protected], www.decentrale.be. Intercultural centre
De Centrale supports culture from all over the world. Beside
theatre and music classes, this venue focuses on world music
with cultural diversity as its starting point. E
Ghent, UNESCO City of Music
When visiting Ghent, you might be tempted to dance
instead of walk down the streets, as the city simply oozes
music. It comes as no surprise then, that in June of 2009,
UNESCO appointed Ghent that year’s ‘City of Music’.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization judged Ghent the winning city based on a
list of criteria including its centres of musical creation and
activity, its musical festivals and events, the promotion
of the music industry, its music schools etc.
In fact, long before the UNESCO nod, Ghent had been
considered a well-established centre for music with a rich
tradition. For one, the city boasts an impressive number
of concert halls: Concert Hall De Bijloke (classical music),
Capitole (musicals), Flanders Expo (concert & event hall),
Kuipke (concert and event hall), Handelsbeurs (world
music, jazz, singer-songwriters etc.), Kunstencentrum
Vooruit (major travelling (international) productions), De
Vlaamse Opera (opera house), Intercultural Centre ‘de
Centrale (world music) to name but a few.
Furthermore, local and international young artists are
enabled and encouraged to develop their interest and
career in music thanks to education facilities such as Ghent’s School of Arts, and research centres. Besides this,
different organizations, including the Federation of Music
Festivals in Flanders (FMiV) and the European Festivals
Association (EFA) back the city’s musical ambitions.
The proof of Ghent’s musical efforts is in the pudding.
Simply glancing over the city’s rich pop and rock scene,
with over 600 pop and rock bands, proves they pay off:
artists such as Soulwax, Sioen, 2Many DJ’s, An Pierlé,
Arid, Das Pop, and Gabriel Rios call the city their musical
home. Important musical promoters based in Ghent are
Democrazy and Kinky Star. Spectra, Logos and collegium
vocale are just a few examples of Ghent’s flourishing
classical and contemporary music scene. Ghent also
contributes to the world of musical theatre. LOD, for
instance, is an important production and development
centre for (contemporary) music. Finally, Ghent’s opera
house stages many national and international productions, and in former movie theatre, the Capitole, musicals
are produced and presented.
Ghent supports many musical genres through a variety of
festivals. The Festival of Flanders (14-28/9/2013) in the
heart of the city is a wonderful example of Ghent’s celebration of music. The International Film Festival Ghent
(8-19/2013) has a special emphasis on film music and
organises film music concerts during which composers
such as Ennio Morricone, Howard Shore, Hans Zimmer,
and Maurice Jarre have taken the stage. Since 2001, the
Film Festival Gent has also been organising the World
Soundtrack Awards, the most prestigious soundtrack
awards in the world. Jazz in Ghent is alive and kicking too.
Ghent’s many jazz cafés and clubs and its annual July
Ghent Jazz festival attest to that. The ‘Gentse Feesten’
or ‘Ghent (City) Festivities’, is a yearly tradition: every July
the city is alive with concerts, parties etc for ten days.
There are also numerous smaller festivals throughout
the year, catering to everyone, from jazz lovers to classical music buffs.
So if you’ve got the music in you, Ghent is the place
to be!
Check out this graffiti @Lammerstraat, photo by Anke Sanders
17
Culture & Events
18
Rock, Folk, Jazz & More
Date
Time
Event
Venue
Gentse Feesten
more info&updates
@gentsefeesten.be
City
centre
July
20 – 29
Kopergietery C-1, Blekerijstraat 50, tel. (+32) 926
61 144, fax (+32) 922 42 980, nele@kopergietery.
be, www.dekopergietery.be. The Kopergietery used to
be a copper foundry (kopergieterij) and now serves as a
theatre focusing on children and adolescents. National and
international youth theater companies play here. QOpen ,
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 10:00 - 17:00. T
Minard Theater C-4, Walpoortstraat 15, tel. (+32) 926
58 830, fax (+32) 923 33 011, [email protected], www.
minard.be. On the steps of this theatre is a statue of Romain
August
Nosedrip presents: Julia
Holter, Lynn Cassiers
13
19:30
27
19:30 Sam Amidon
DOK
DOK
Venue
Code
De Bijloke
BIJ
Capitole Gent
CA
Café Video
CF
Caermersklooster
CK
Campo Boma
CMB
Campo Nieuwpoort
CMN
Campo Victoria
CMV
City Centre
CC
Design museum
DES
De Kouter
DK
DOK
DOK
De Vlaamse Opera
DVO
Flanders Expo
FE
Festivalterrein Krijzeltand
FK
Film Plateau
FP
Galerij Tatjana Pieters
GTP
Museum dr. Guislain
GUI
Handelsbeurs
HB
Huis van Alijn
HVA
Kinepolis
KI
Kouter
KO
De wereld van Kina: de Tuin
KT
Logos Tetrahedron
LT
HB
Museum voor Industriële Archeologie en
Textiel
MIAT
September
12
Ensemble
20:00 Modern&Synergy Vocals
Three Tales
15
19:30 The Revival Hour
25
20:00 Trio Stelios Petrekis
26
Marjan van Rompay
Group / Sonic Boom: Uri
20:15
Caine & Han Bennink
(double bill)
BIJ
DOK
BIJ
HB
October
3
De Beren Gieren / Too
20:15
Noisy Fish (Double Bill)
10
20:15
15
20:00 Joshua Redman Quartet
BIJ
24
20:15 Vijaj Iyer Trio
HB
26
19:30 Vive la Fête
VO
28
19:30 Spinvis
AMATORSKI 'Deleting
Borders'
HB
HB
NTG
November
5
20:15
21
Lionel Beuvens quartet /
Splashgirl
20:00 Kellylee Evans
HB
BIJ
December
Henri Texier Hope
Quartet
Venues
3
20:15
5
20:00 Imani Winds
BIJ
Museum of Fine Arts
MSK
14
20:00 Flat Earth Society
BIJ
Miryzaal
MZ
17
19:30 Daan
NTG
NTGent
NTG
18
20.15
HB
St-Baafsabdij
SBA
Stadsmuseum Gent
STAM
SMAK
SM
Sphinx
SP
Sint-Pietersabdij
SPA
Studio Skoop
ST
De Tinnen Pot
TP
VIP School
VIP
Vooruit
VO
Marockin' Brass feat.
Byron Wallen
January
22
29
20.15
Joachim Badenhorst +
OakTree Trio (double bill)
20.00 Antiduo & Chambertones
HB
BIJ
Culture & Events
Deconinck, an icon of Flemish folk theatre who used Minard
as the base for his theatre company. This is the reason
why every July and December, Minard revives folk theater
with performances in the Ghent dialect. J
NTGent C-3, Sint-Baafsplein 17, tel. (+32) 922 50
ntgent.be. Civic theater NTGent, founded in 1965, lies
within the triangle of the cathedral, the Belfort and the
city hall. A theatre with its own company that also hosts
international players, the classical auditorium has room for
650 spectators. There are two other venues, too: Arca
and Minnemeers. Arca is located behind the Castle of
the Counts, while Minnemeers is situated next to the
Museum of Industrial Archaeology and Textiles (MIAT).
JAL
Uitbureau Veldstraat 82 B, www.uitbureau.be. In Ghent’s main shopping street, you will also find this ‘uitbureau’
where you can ask for information about theatre plays,
performances, musicals, guided city walks, etc and you can
even buy tickets here. So don’t forget to pay them a visit if
you want to dive into Ghent’s cultural life. There is so much
to discover! QOpen 10:30 - 17:30. Closed Sun.
Parkkaffee
People from Ghent simply itching to get away from the busy
city centre during the sunny summer months can take a
mini-holiday at the Parkkaffee: the grounds of a private
castle in Mariakerke, a district of Ghent.
This year, owner Marco ‘Kazzen’ Cassiman (55), is
opening the doors to his castle’s beautiful grounds for
the thirteenth time. Cassiman used to be a musician, but
decided to buy the castle at a surprisingly low price back
in 1992. “Everyone thought I was crazy,” he recalls, “and
maybe they were right. What can I say? I had fallen head
over heels… It was a complete leap in the dark, but sometimes you have to show some guts.” Thirteen years later,
the many Parkkaffee fans can testify how Cassiman’s
audacity paid off.
Parkkaffee has become a unique outdoor cafe with
antique caravans and tents surrounding a pond, in the
middle of a spacious park. This fairytale spot is open to
couples looking for some romance, families in search of
a carefree afternoon of fun, and groups of city-dwelling
friends who just want to hang out in a lush garden.
In the afternoons, Parkkaffee is a great place for kids:
they can enjoy the park, play in the sandpit, swing from
the vines in the trees and take part in theatre and circus
workshops. There is even a magic school, where magicians
just might teach you some of their best card tricks. At night,
you can huddle around the campfires dotted around the
lawns while enjoying excellent food and some of the best
cocktails in town. A variety of bands provide the perfect
soundtrack to your summer. Curious? Parkkaffee is open
to all every day in July and August, from 14:00 to midnight.
And while you’re there, you can find out how quickly you
will be back by consulting one of the mysterious fortune
tellers.
Groenestaakstraat 37, 9030 Mariakerke, tel.
(+32) 922 79 994, [email protected] from
July 1 to August 31, 14:00-24:00. Entrance fee: €5. For
details of this year’s activities, go to www.parkkaffee.
be.
19
20
Where to stay
Cream of the crop
Ghent Marriott Hotel B-2, Korenlei 10, tel. (+32) 923
39 393, fax (+32) 923 39 394, [email protected],
www.marriottghent.be. Perfection doesn’t come cheap,
and the only downside of this luxury hotel is the price tag.
However, the quality of the Ghent Marriott is of mind-blowing
proportions. It is a wonderfully designed building in a location
that can’t be beaten: overlooking the Korenlei on the banks
of the Lys, just a short walk from just about everywhere you
will want to go. It goes without saying that the rooms are
probably the best in the city. There are good on site drinking
and dining options too. Worth saving up for. Q 150 rooms
(doubles from €149 to 219). PZTJHARUFL�
GBKW hhhh
Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof A-2, Hoogstraat 36,
tel. (+32) 923 54 070, fax (+32) 923 54 079, gent@
sandton.eu, www.sandton.eu. Hotel Reylof - in a building
from the 18th century - is within walking distance from the
centre of Ghent and a recommendable spot for those who
like to be spoilt. The large rooms in this wonderful building
are equipped with the right things, the beds are huge, the
breakfast extensive and the staff very attentive. The hotel
has a cocktail bar and a historical garden courtyard that is
great during sunny months. Those who’d like to work on their
health can do so in the wellness centre with a fitness equipment and a solarium. Q 158 rooms (doubles from €125 to
238, suites from €179 to 1250, apartments from €169 to
209). THAFLGBKDXW hhhh
Upmarket
Hotel Harmony B-2, Kraanlei 37, tel. (+32) 932 42
www.hotel-harmony.be. Hotel Harmony offers excellent
accommodation in the heart of the oldest neighbourhood
in Ghent. Those who want a taste of the real medieval
atmosphere and, at the same time, want to be taken care
of, have to book a room here. The prices are a bit high, but
the price/quality ratio here is very good. Even the smallest
rooms have large beds, wireless internet and some of them
even have a terrace. Those who’ve booked a suite can count
on designer baths, fruit baskets and a fireplace. The staff in
this hotel, a family business, will do absolutely anything to
make you feel at ease. And if you’ve had enough of strolling
through Ghent and need a rest, you can always sit in the
private garden of the hotel with a plate of tapas and a good
glass of wine. Highly recommended. Q25 rooms (doubles
from €139 to 229). PZTHAR6ULGBCW
hhhh
NH Gent Belfort B-2, Hoogpoort 63, tel. (+32) 923 33
331, fax (+32) 923 31 102, nhgentbelfort@nh-hotels.
com, www.nh-hotels.com. On the corner of Hoogpoort
and Belfortstraat stands the proud building of NH Ghent
Belfort. Thanks to both the police station and the city hall
opposite, you can feel safe in your room and perhaps even
spot a wedding going on from your window. The interior of
the hotel, as well as the rooms, are colourfully designed,
thereby creating a genuinely warm atmosphere. Rooms are
comfortable and well up to those of a four-star hotel. The
breakfast buffet is very good and the basement dining hall
is lovely. Q174 rooms (doubles €99 - 165, suites €169).
PTJHA6UFLGBKDXW hhhh
NH Gent Sint Pieters A-5, Koning Albertlaan 121, tel.
(+32) 922 26 065, fax (+32) 922 01 605, [email protected], www.nh-hotels.com. Although
this hotel is about a twenty minutes walk from the Kuip van
Symbol key
P Air conditioning
6 Animal friendly
O Casino
A Credit cards accepted
T Child friendly
J City centre location
H Conference facilities
U Facilities for the disabled
R Internet
L Guarded parking
F Fitness centre
G Non-smoking rooms
K Restaurant
M Nearest metro station
D Sauna
C Swimming pool
W Wi-Fi connection
Gent, it’s an excellent base for city trips as well as business
trips. The rooms are tidy and clean, the beds are comfortable and you can’t really be complaining about the extensive
breakfast buffet. A fine hotel. Q49 rooms (doubles €86 125, suites €125). PZTHA6LGW hhhh
Novotel Gent Centrum B-2, Goudenleeuwplein 5,
tel. (+32) 922 42 230, fax (+32) 922 43 295, H0840@
accor.com, www.novotel.com. The Novotel offers efficient
service, spacious and clean rooms and an outdoor swimming
pool, a sauna and a gym. If you are looking for a comfortable
stay and bright interior design then this really might be the
place for you. The location next to St-Baafsplein is great, you
have a splendid view. Q 117 rooms (doubles from €99 to
189). PTJA6UFLBKDCW hhh
Parkhotel D-3, Nieuwebosstraat 1, tel. (+32) 922 39
www.parkhotelgent.be. The Parkhotel has recently been
renovated completely and it shows: the tastefully decorated
rooms, like the rest of the hotel, are impeccable. The staff
clearly shares its fresh mood: upon entrance, everyone will
answer you in a friendly, open way, and there’s a nice exchange of tips on what to do in Ghent. You’ll even get a little
map, so finding the historical centre of Ghent is easy - plus
it’s only a ten minutes’ walk from the hotel. The rooms are
clean and the breakfast is fine, though a bit on the pricey
side. The on-site restaurant La Provence offers you a good
look at the Belgian and French cuisine - the service of the
staff don’t get better. In the summer months, breakfast is
served in the courtyard. Q 20 rooms (doubles €74-109).
JALGBKW hhh
Boutique hotels
Charme Hancelot Hotel D-4, Vijfwindgatenstraat 19,
tel. (+32) 923 43 545, fax (+32) 923 35 545, info@
hancelot.be, www.hancelot.be. This renovated Town
House, built in 1840, is a hotel full of character. In this stylish
and authentic mansion you could almost imagine you belong
to 19th century nobility. The breakfast room could serve
as a ballroom, and all the guest rooms come with antique
furniture. Spread over three floors, there are different kinds
of accomodation. The most basic ‘charm room’ is equipped
with a sitting area, flat-screen TV, free wireless internet and
a bathroom with shower, sink and toilet. Others include a
bath with separate massage shower or a two-person bath
and a shower. For all guests, there’s free access to the fitness room. At extra cost, you can make use of the private
sauna or wellness facilities. A hidden pearl in the centre of
Ghent. Q12 rooms (doubles €119 - 179). JHAI�
FLGBDW
Where to stay
Mid-range
Best Western Hotel Chamade A-6, Koningin Elisa-
bethlaan 3, tel. (+32) 922 01 515, fax (+32) 922 19
766, [email protected], www.chamade.be. A standard
three-star hotel, ideal for those who like to stay close to the
railway station. The centre of the city is, however, also easily
accessible: the tram that stops just outside the hotel, takes
you in 10 minutes to the historical centre. The hotel has a
limited underground parking (€12) but the public parking at
the station is a good alternative. Each room has a private
bathroom with hairdryer, a color TV, telephone, minibar
and high speed internet. There are both smoking and non
smoking rooms that were redecorated not so long ago. The
breakfast buffet they serve on the sixth floor provides not only
an extensive choice but also a panoramic view of the city.
Q (singles €114 - 132, doubles €130 - 149, triples €1575).
PTA6LW hhh
Best Western Residence Hotel Cour St Georges
C-2, Botermarkt 2, tel. (+32) 922 42 424, fax (+32) 922
42 640, [email protected], www.courstgeorges.
be. Smack in the centre of town is the oldest hotel in Europe.
Well, at least that is how they call themselves. When we
viewed the rooms of this18th century building, we actually
became quite convinced that this claim might be true, because some rooms could use a bit of renovation. Facilities
are modern though, staff are very helpful and the location
is hard to beat. On the downside, the breakfast is really not
the best and overall we would conclude that the Hotel Cour
Saint-Georges doesn’t provide enough value for money. Q31
rooms (doubles €117 - 139). TJA6LGW hhh
Carlton A-6, Koningin Astridlaan 138, tel. (+32) 922
www.carlton-gent.be. Three brothers took over this hotel
and now manage it with style. At the Carlton you’ll find 21
nicely decorated rooms with a private bathroom, digital TV
with two movie channels, a coffee/tea set, a spacious desk,
minibar and even a lounge with couches and mood lighting.
The brothers give the hotel a personal touch to make your
stay as pleasant as possible. The hotel is 200 meters away
from Sint-Pietersstation. The centre is easily accessible
by tram or bus. Q 21 rooms (singles from €84 to 120,
doubles from €101.50 to 175, triples from €122.50 to 175)
TA6LGW hhh
Europahotel A-5, Gordunakaai 59, tel. (+32) 922 26
071, fax (+32) 922 00 609, info@europahotel-gent.
be, www.europahotel-gent.be. You’re at the right place
for a quiet hotel half way between the city centre and the
railway station. This family hotel is located on the banks of
the Lys and is an ideal base for cycling and walking, and with
the bike route maps cyclists get when they check in, they
can immediately hop on their bikes. The modern single and
double rooms are equipped with shower, bath and toilet but
apparently the wireless internet doesn’t reach all the rooms.
The hotel also has a gastronomic bistro with lunch at €15
and a menu with a large choice of fish, meat and vegetarian
dishes. Q37 rooms (singles €110, doubles from €114 to
129). THA6LGBKW hhh
Ghent River Hotel B-2, Waaistraat 5, tel. (+32) 926
61 010, fax (+32) 926 61 015, info@ghent-river-hotel.
be, www.ghent-river-hotel.be. Just north of Vrijdagsmarkt
lies a former industrial building that has been turned into a
large hotel along the Lys River. The 77 rooms are generally
good value and, unlike many other accommodation options
in Ghent, the hotel’s facilities include a fitness room, a
sauna and quite a nice bar. Not all the rooms are of the
same value though and some of them can be a bit noisy.
The breakfast, which is not included in the price, is pretty
expensive for what you get. Q80 rooms (doubles €102 - 150).
TJHAFBD hhhh
Holiday Inn Gent Expo Maaltekouter 3, tel. (+32) 922
02 424, fax (+32) 922 26 622, www.higentexpo.com.
If you have business in or around Flanders Expo or need to
be next the motorway, then Holiday Inn is a good choice.
In all other situations, we would say there are much better
options in town. The hotel is efficiently designed, but lacks a
bit of atmosphere. Rooms are quite noisy and the fact that
there is a motorway just 100 metres from your room doesn’t
particularly help. Apart from that, there is nothing wrong with
the Holiday Inn, but it is not hard to find a place that offers
higher quality for the same price. Q169 rooms (singles
€72 - 99, doubles €105 - 149). PTHAR6UFL�
GKW hhhh
Hotel Adoma B-6, Sint Denijslaan 19, tel. (+32) 922
www.hotel-adoma.be. This hotel, near the Citadelpark, and
only minutes away from Sint-Pieters station, might look a bit
miserable from the outside - it reminded us of an East Berlin
bunker - but inside you’ll be provided with everything you need:
you can even park your car here for free. The hotel is a fine
spot for a weekend in Ghent, and the prices of the room are
reasonable. We’ve seldom seen such an extensive breakfast
for the price. Moreover, the great beds and the attentive staff
will make you stay an extra night. Q 15 rooms (doubles €70,
triples €94, suites €97). TALW hhh
Hotel Astoria Gent B-6, Achilles Musschestraat 39,
Huis van Alijn, photo by Anke Sanders
tel. (+32) 922 28 413, fax (+32) 922 04 787, info@
astoria.be, www.astoria.be. Whenever you visit a foreign
city, the hotel is usually the first place to look for information.
At the Astoria, located in the Kunstenkwartier, the staff will
do everything they can to inform you about their city. Full of
pride, they’ll tell you about the nicest streets and the most
special places. The same kind of care is evident in the hotel
itself, too. There are kingsize beds and luxurious bathrooms
with Jacuzzis (if you’re in luck). In the mornings, a breakfast
buffet is ready for you - the only thing missing here being
freshly squeezed juice. The prices are quite cheap for the
quality you get, however, and the hotel offers free parking,
too. Q25 rooms (doubles €89 - 135, suites €114 - 145).
HA6LGBW hhh
21
22
Where to stay
Monasterium PoortAckere A-3, Oude Houtlei 56,
tel. (+32) 926 92 210, fax (+32) 926 92 230, info@
monasterium.be, www.monasterium.be. A former monastery turned into a hotel. It is in a beautiful location and
at every corner of the gorgeous building you can feel how
its former residents used to live. So while the hotel has
kept the old charm of the monastery, this is unfortunately
visible in the rooms as well. Most rooms desperately need
renovation and simply don’t meet the expectations of a
twenty-first century guest. The cheaper rooms in the
nunnery wing even present a truly Spartan experience.
Due to a general lack of comfort and frequent complaints
about rooms being dirty, a stay at the Monasterium is not
worth its price. It really is a shame, because the building
is indeed very special and the location could hardly be
better. Q 20 rooms (doubles €46 - 175). JHAUL�
GBKXW h
Budget
Campanile Hotel Gent Akkerhage 1, tel. (+32) 922
Summer to enjoy! © Visit-Gent
Hotel de Flandre A-2, Poel 1-2, tel. (+32) 926 60 600,
hoteldeflandre.be. A lot of time and attention went into the
appearance and atmosphere of this hotel near the Korenlei.
The standard rooms might be standard when it comes to
facilities, but the beds are truly lovely. The suites in this hotel
have been equipped with all sorts of luxurious features such
as a Jacuzzi and fireplace. Although the hotel is situated on a
noisy street, and, at night, a stray drunk from Ghent (or tourist)
might stumble past your window, inside, it’s like an oasis of
peace. In the mornings, an extensive and very good breakfast
awaits you, and if you’re really lazy, or just hung-over from all
the triple beers, just have breakfast in bed. Q 46 rooms
(prices from €97-214). TJALGBW hhhh
Hotel Gravensteen B-2, Jan Breydelstraat 35, tel.
(+32) 922 51 150, fax (+32) 922 51 850, [email protected], www.gravensteen.be. As the name suggests,
this hotel lies right by the castle of Gravensteen, and if you’re
in luck, you’ll get a view of the medieval building from your
room. When it comes to the number of nearby hotspots, this
hotel scores high points: the Design Museum is on the same
street, and the centre of Ghent is within walking distance.
Although the rooms are provided with all sorts of extras
like free wireless and a bath, the rooms are quite cramped.
Parking, unfortunately, isn’t free - you’ll have to buy a parking
card - and breakfast could’ve been a bit more substantial.
This hotel could use a makeover and the price - quality ratio
isn’t optimal, but the location makes up for a lot. Q49 rooms
(singles €129 - 139, doubles €116 - 139). TJHA6U�
FLGBDW hhh
Ibis St. Baafs Kathedraal C-3, Limburgstraat 2, tel.
(+32) 929 39 000, fax (+32) 923 31 000, H0961@accor.
com, www.accorhotels.com. A tall corner building next to
St Bavo’s Church houses the Ibis hotel. Rooms are comfortable and modern, and those with a view over the church are
particularly nice. From the breakfast room, you can see trams
passing through the square and see the morning activity at
one of Ghent’s central squares. A word of warning for those
travelling by car: navigating through Ghent’s historical centre
to find the Ibis car park us not easy! Q120 rooms (doubles
€75 - 82). PTJA6ULGKW hh
www.campanile-gand.be. In this Campanile Hotel, you will
find basic rooms with a somewhat outdated décor. There
are some free extras, however, such as wifi and a kettle,
coffee/tea set and biscuits. With its location just off the
motorway and its free parking, the hotel is very convenient
when you’re passing though by car. The hotel is close to
an industrial complex and there is not so much to see in
the neighbourhood. Fortunately the Campanile has a bar
for drinks, a terrace and a hotel restaurant that serves
good fresh, seasonal food with friendly service. Breakfast
is not included. Q51 rooms (doubles from €80 to 103).
HA6ULGBKW hhh
Holiday Inn Express Gent Akkerhage 2, tel. (+32)
922 25 885, fax (+32) 922 01 222, hotel@hiexgent.
be, www.hiexpress.com. This is the kind of hotel you only
sleep at when you’re on the road. Holiday Inn Express is a
typical chain hotel without much charm but is very clean.
The rooms are spacious and equipped with telephone,
TV, free WiFi, a desk and bathroom with shower, toilet and
hairdryer. The staff are friendly and will help you if you need
anything. Too bad that they charge for parking as you can
only really come here by car. Q120 rooms (doubles €59 75). PZTHA6ULGBKXW hhh
Hotel Onderbergen B-3, Onderbergen 69, tel. (+32)
922 36 200, [email protected], www.hotelonderbergen.be. Irish hospitality is the creed of this nice
hotel. Below the hotel, there’s an Irish pub and the Englishspeaking staff will do anything to advise you about the best
Belgian beer spots in Ghent. The atmosphere among the
staff and guests is relaxed - it’s like a backpackers hostel,
but without the backpackers. The standard rooms aren’t
huge, but very cosy - especially the rooms in which the
woodwork of the old roof is still visible. In the thoroughly
renovated building, there’s no lift, so at night, you’ll have
to climb the endless stairs, tough after a whole day of exploring downtown Ghent. Q 24 rooms (doubles €85-120).
TALGBKW
Ibis Gent Centrum Opera B-4, Nederkouter 24-26,
tel. (+32) 929 39 001, fax (+32) 922 35 907, H1455@
accor.com, www.ibishotel.com. This Ibis is what we
expect from it: fine budget accommodation in the centre of
the city. Standard rooms with internet, television, bathroom
and free parking below the hotel – big plusses. At walking
distance from the main sights.Q134 rooms (doubles €62
- 72). PTJA6ULGW hh
Where to stay
Bed & Breakfast
B&B Brooderie B-2, Jan Breydelstraat 8, tel. (+32)
922 50 263, [email protected], www.brooderie.be.
Right next to the best oasis in Ghent, the Applebrugparkje,
you’ll find this little bed and breakfast. There are three rooms
on the first and second floor of this historical building. The
smallest - thus the cheapest - room is our favourite, with its
view over the Lei and the ancient buildings of the inner city.
The other two rooms are a lot more colourful, larger and more
comfortably furnished. The only complaint about this place is
that you have to share a shower and toilet with other guests.
On the ground floor, a complete breakfast is served. Q 3
rooms. Prices from €50 to €75. JAGKW
B&B De Waterzooi B-2, Sint-Veerleplein 2, tel. (+32)
933 07 721, [email protected], www.dewaterzooi.be.
When you wake up in the morning and you open the window
from one of the three suites of this B&B, you will have a gorgeous view over the Castle of the Counts. From the moment
you step out of bed you will see that every aspect of this B&B
is perfection. The building itself dates from 1713 and looks very
elegant, the luxurious suites are brilliantly decorated and the
hosts are incredibly hospitable. We have tried very hard to spot
some downsides or imperfections, but we just couldn’t find any.
QSuites priced from €170 - 215. PJALGBXW
B&B Engelen aan de Waterkant C-6, Ter Platen 30,
tel. (+32) 476 40 25 23, annwillems.interieur@skynet.
be, www.engelenaandewaterkant.be. ‘Angels along the
waterfront’ is what the name of this small and quiet B&B
means. The angels are located along the Scheldt on the
southern side of Ghent’s city centre and, as the name subtly
suggests, this is quite a romantic place. The two large rooms
are charmingly furnished, with all the necessary amenities.
Perhaps the only thing missing is a shower in the bathroom,
yet on the other hand the bathtub does add to the romantic
ambiance. Breakfast is served in the room and, due to the
hostess’ exceptional cooking skills, is remarkably nice.
Q Singles €120, doubles €140. ALGW
B&B Simon Says B-1, Sluizeken 8, tel. (+32) 923 30
343, [email protected], www.simon-says.be. Next to
the Patershol neighbourhood lies one of the best B&Bs in
Ghent. The two rooms are spotlessly neat, breakfast is one
of the best you could imagine and the staff are helpful and
friendly. The B&B is housed in a colourful building above Simon’s coffee shop, which offers one of the best cups of coffee
in town. So Simon not only says things, he also provides a
fantastic and welcoming accommodation option. Q Double
room €105. TJAGBKW
Guesthouse PPP A-2, Poel 9, tel. (+32) 933 46 377,
[email protected], www.ppp-gent.be. Taking your shoes
off before entering - a house rule - kind of reminds visitors
that this is a guesthouse and not a hotel. A friendly and cosy
little place, the rooms offer the comfort and privacy of a
luxurious hotel and, combined with the homely atmosphere,
are worth every penny. Each of the five rooms has a different style, all with an elaborate design. Rooms are spacious,
clean and just superbly furnished. The ‘modern room’ is
noteworthy for having an attached bedroom for children.
Perhaps the only downside is the absence of a lift, which
could be troublesome for people who have difficulties climbing
stairs. Q5 rooms (doubles €100 - 130, suites €110 - 130).
PZTJHAILGBW
Nebula B&B C-2, Kwaadham 52, tel. (+32) 484 15
53 28, [email protected], www.nebula-gent.be. This
nice b&b right at the heart of the city has lots to offer : all
main buildings at walking distance, a nice gallery underneath
and a jewelry shop to keep him and her happy, a nice foyer
where you can enjoy a great breakfast, coffee and cake and
small snacks. The rooms are decorated in a very stylish
way, and they are definitely worth the money. Q €65 - 120.
TJABKW
SnoozInn C-1, Ham 89, tel. (+32) 496 24 14 26,
[email protected]. Walking in this part of town, where
tourists don’t dwell that often, makes you realise what a nice
city Ghent is to live in. Booking a room in this lovely b&b is a
must for the epicurists amongst us. Great beds, a delicious
breakfast with splendid homemade jam. What a perfect way
to start a day. Q from €85 to 95. TJAW
Hostels
Jeugdherberg De Draecke B-2, Sint-Widostraat 11,
tel. (+32) 923 37 050, [email protected], www.jeugdherbergen.be/gent. This neat HI hostel is nicely located around
the corner of the Castle of the Counts. The hostel has about
100 beds spread over 21 small dorms of which the largest
ones have six beds. There are also six double rooms on offer
and every room has an en suite bathroom. You can expect all
the usual hostel facilities, the usual hostel atmosphere and a
hearty breakfast is included in the price. Staff members are
friendly and they will join their guest every now and then at
the hostel’s bar. On the downside, you should bring your own
towels, breakfast lasts only until 09:30 and if you are not an
HI-member you will have to pay a €3 surcharge. Q Doubles
€23 - 25, dormitory €19 - 21. TJHAGKW
Apartment rental
Aparthotel Castelnou D-3, Kasteellaan 51, tel.
(+32) 923 50 411, fax (+32) 923 50 404, [email protected], www.castelnou.be. This accommodation option,
located in a quiet area southeast of the city centre, could
be described as something between hotel and apartment
rental. Castelnou offers spacious and clean apartments,
but with the facilities and personal touch of a hotel. The
recently renovated rooms are fully furnished and equipped
with all the accessories you might have deliberately forgotten to bring from home. This includes a small kitchen,
but in case you are not in the mood for cooking, the Dali
restaurant offers a convenient alternative. Q 48 rooms
(singles from €79.50 to112.50, doubles from €96.50 to
129.50)PTHALGBKW hhh
MidiSud C-6, Bellevuestraat 30, tel. (+32) 477 28 90
60, [email protected], www.midisud.be. Here, you can
rent a large apartment for the same price as a cheap hotel,
provided with many extras, like a large bathroom, a big living
room, Wi-Fi and a nice kitchen with everything you need. However, the apartment is cleaned only once a week. But if you
plan on staying a bit longer in Ghent and want to prepare your
own meals, this is a fine place. The biggest disadvantage,
however, is the distance to the centre - it’s about 45 minutes
on foot - but you can park for free here, and by car you are
only about 10 minutes from the city centre. Q3 rooms (3
Total rooms ). TJLNGBW
Onderbergen 37 B-3, Onderbergen 37, tel. (+32) 475
27 09 10, [email protected], www.
onderbergen37.com. The fact that the owner, who lives
next door, is an interior designer explains the stylishness of
the rooms. The building consists of four floors, each with a
bedroom decorated in a different style. It’s all gorgeous, the
kitchens are well equipped and your friendly host is usually
around to answer any questions. TJ
23
24
Restaurants
It is not an overstatement to suggest that Ghent is home
to some truly fantastic eateries. We have eaten at them
all, and have come up with a selection that includes not
only the very best, but also the quirkiest, the best value
and - in some cases - the downright bizarre.
Local dishes? Steak tartare is one, as - of course - is a
big cone of Belgian fries.
Argentinean
Argenvino B-2, Donkersteeg 25, tel. (+32) 927 91
792, [email protected], www.argenvino.net. What if
the summer isn’t as sunny as we have expected, or what if
autumn is sunnier than we’ve expected? One solution: tapas
y vino in this nice Argentinean bar. They serve excellent wine
and fine tapas, the churrasco al plato and choripan being
our favourites. The only downside is that the lightning could
have been warmer, no one really fancies white lamps above
the table... but a couple of vinos will even make you forget
about that. QOpen 18:00 - 23:30, Sat 12:30 - 15:30. (€1525). JAGK
Belgian
Belga Queen B-2, Graslei 10, tel. (+32) 928 00 100,
belgaqueen.be. This 13th-century Romanesque house has
been converted into a very good restaurant that’s all about
Belgian food and drinks. On one of two floors you can choose
to sit at high bistro tables (not so comfortable), communal
tables or large leather armchairs (far too comfortable). Bon
vivants can finish their meal in the Cigar Lounge Bar to
enjoy a cigar Belgian Congo-style. Carefully prepared and
exceptionally tasty food, but bear in mind that you pay for the
excellent service and the top location. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00,
Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 24:00. (€21 - 35). PJHA6UB�
KXS
Brasserie Ha’ B-3, Kouter 29, tel. (+32) 926 59 181,
[email protected], www.brasserieha.be.
Even with a magnifying glass, it’s hard to find any flaws in
Brasserie Ha, the indoor restaurant of the Handelsbeurs
concert hall. Every detail here seems to have been given
thought, without it ever becoming clinical or soulless. The
menu might be small, but it offers more than enough French/
Belgian delicacies, all of which have been given a special
touch by the chef. The pretty female waitresses, elegantly
set tables, an interior that will make interior designers
jealous, and high quality products make every visit to this
brasserie feel like a small feast. You’re in the right place for
cocktails, too. QOpen 12:00 - 14:30, 18:00-22:00. (€20 - 24).
JALGK
Symbol key
P Air conditioning
6 Animal friendly
Z Anti-allergy
O Casino
J City centre location
T Child friendly
A Credit cards accepted
U Facilities for the disabled
L Guarded parking
R Internet
E Live music
M Nearest station
G Non-smoking areas
S Take away
De Stokerij A-1, Tichelrei 2 A, tel. (+32) 927 99 585,
www.destokerij-gent.be. Multatuli is already one of our
favourite places, and the brother brain behind this njummie
restaurant recently opened a new restaurant, following the
same recipe for success: good food, friendly staff, a beautiful
interior (in an old distillery, which has been completely renovated)
and to spoil us even more, they serve their own-brew beer Staminée (both here and at Multatuli). Best to enjoy their
steak tartaar and a nice beer on the terrace. A must. QOpen
16:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed.
(€9-17). TJABK
De Tempelier B-2, Meerseniersstraat 9, tel. (+32) 923
30 305, www.brasseriedetempelier.be. Cozy bistro in a carfree alley close to the Vrijdagsmarkt. De Tempelier used to be
a bar, and the couple that runs this place have kept much of the
original interior, which looks like it came from a church. Indeed,
all Frederik and Ingeborg did was add a long, red leather sofa
and some wooden bistro tables. The choice at De Tempelier
is very limited but Frederik - who cooks - makes good, honest
meals with quality products. If the ten to fifteen tables are full,
you might have to wait a while until you get served. QOpen
18:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€8 - 15). PJNBK
Keizershof B-2, Vrijdagmarkt 47, tel. (+32) 922 34 446,
www.keizershof.net. Couples over candlelight, families with
three generations, boisterous groups of friends - Brasserie
Keizershof is popular enough to be all things to all people,
and with good reason. Situated on the busy Vrijdagmarkt it
boasts a meandering three floors (the top offering the best
views of the square), a lush outdoor terrace and a simple
menu of reliable dishes like spaghetti Bolognese and hefty
stews. A reasonably priced wine list and a staff that seems
happy to let guests linger whether they’ve committed to
cocktails or full meals complements the experience. QOpen
11:30 - 22:30, Fri, Sat 11:30 - 23:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (€15
- 20). JA6UGBK
Restaurants
Korenhuis B-2, Korenlei 10, tel. (+32) 926 97 744,
[email protected], www.korenhuis.be. In the heart of
Ghent, you won’t find many restaurants with a prettier view
and a better menu than at Korenlei, part of the worldwide
Marriott chain of hotels. However, the attentive staff won’t
serve you standardized food in this stylish setting. Instead,
the experienced chef draws inspiration for his own dishes
from traditional Belgian cuisine, but gives them a modern
twist. Many dishes are in fact little artworks that you can
enjoy to the last bite without feeling guilty. Four intimate
rooms are available for dinner, although the two with a
view over the Leie River are the best. Those who can’t get
a place there need not complain: in the other two rooms
you get a view of the kitchen and a culinary artist at work.
QOpen 12:00 - 15:00 & 18:30-22:00, Sun 11:00 - 15:00.
(€26 - 32). TAULBK
Lepelblad B-3, Onderbergen 40, tel. (+32) 932 40 244,
[email protected], www.lepelblad.be. Honest and fresh
food is what you’ll find at Lepelblad, Dutch for the common
herb scurvygrass. The restaurant serves tasty salads with
spicy shrimps or a veggie burger, but also does daily specials
and many pasta and stew dishes. Even though the numerous
wooden tables are close to each other, it is not a bad idea
to make a reservation because this place is - especially at
noon - packed with shopping or working people looking for
some no-nonsense food. QOpen 11:30 - 20:30. Closed
Mon, Sun. (€13 - 16). TJA6GBK
Martino C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 125, tel. (+32) 922 50
104, www.martinogent.be. Martino is a Ghent staple,
serving burgers, omelettes and steak. Our personal favorite is the cheeseburger served with tomato-onion sauce,
fries and a salad. Have your meal at the counter or at a
table together with the diverse clientele. Couples ready to
go to the theatre, young students and party people of all
ages come here as Martino serves till early in the morning.
It’s always busy so make a reservation and don’t be late
because manager Pascaline runs this place with a firm
hand. QOpen 18:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (€12 - 20).
PJUNGBKS
Patyntje Gordunakaai 91, tel. (+32) 922 23 273, info@
patyntje.be, www.patyntje.be. This restaurant is not in
the city centre, but nothing so lovely as to discover a city
by bike, and one of these paths might lead you to Patyntje,
a restaurant overlooking the river Lys. On the menu a fine
selection of meat and fish, to everyone’s liking. We would
recommend their steak tartare, one of the best we have
had in Ghent, served with delicious fries and mayonnaise.
QOpen 12:00 - 14:30, 18:30-22:00, Sun 12:00 - 14:30,
18:00-22:00. (€19-28). TAGBK
Chilean
El Negocito C-3, Brabantdam 121, tel. (+31) 495
27 44 94, [email protected], www.mi-negocio.
net/elnegocito. If you unsuspectingly enter this Chilean
restaurant, don’t be startled. A door that jams, crumbling
walls that need some paint, and an arrangement of furniture
that’s a far cry from perfect. But the real surprise is that a
visit to this unknown South American eatery is an outright
delight - if only for the traditional Malta con Huevo (beer with
egg) that you have to try at least once in your life. Genuine
hospitality, a very reasonably priced menu, and the relaxed
ambience make up for everything the decor lacks. The list of
more than fifty different kinds of rum will also please lovers
of alcohol. Every Monday evening, there’s live music. It’s a
great place. QOpen 18:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 18:00 - 01:00.
(€6 - 11). JGKX
Belgian Fries
De Dulle Friet C-2, Vlasmarkt 1, tel. (+32) 475
38 29 23, [email protected], www.dullefriet.
be. In an area where Ghent’s nightlife is at its best,
unfortunately Belgian chips are not. In fact, after several repeated visits in the last year, we can only say
that this chippie is not all it should be. Not only are you
confronted with the smell of burnt chip fat, but hygiene
also leaves a lot to be desired. The only positive thing
we have to say about this enormous place is that the
staff were not at fault. And the mussels in vinegar were
good. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Thu 11:00 - 03:00, Fri
11:00 - 05:00, Sat 12:00 - 05:00, Sun 12:00 - 24:00.
(€2 - 6). JLNBKS
De Frietketel A-3, Papegaaiestraat 89. If Mi-
chelin’s culinary experts are ever going to hand out
stars for the best chippie in Europe, De Frietketel is
bound to come up trumps. Even vegetarians praise
this business which can afford to be closed large parts
of the day, like a proper restaurant. Ever since 1980
you’ve been able to come here for the usual deep fried
snacks (fried in palm oil), but this trendy place also
sells all kinds of vegetables pressed into a burger.
More often than not there are long queues stretching outside. Specialities of the house are the cheese
croquettes and the homemade vegan tartare sauce,
which is the closest to deserving the label heavenly of
the 20 (!) available sauces. Flush this down with one
of the biological soft drinks. QOpen 11:00 - 14:00 &
17:00-23:00. (€2 - 5). LNKS
25
26
Restaurants
Cuban
La Casa del Cubano C-3, Brabantdam 123, celine@
skynet.be, www.lacasadelcubanogent.be. Years ago a
wonderful fusion of a Colombian chef and a cigar smoking
Italian led to La Cuba del Cubano. Although the food that’s
served here is very much traditionally Italian, the name refers to the back of this tiny restaurant. The name plate over
the entrance, Havana Room, makes it very clear that the
best known Cuban export is central here. From the subtle
Montecristo’s to classy bricks from Havana, all upmarket
cigar brands are for sale. As long as the chain smoking owner
hasn’t smoked them all himself.... QOpen 11:00 - 15:00 &
18:00-02:00. (€8 - 13). LNGBKS
French
Brasserie Pakhuis B-3, Schuurkenstraat 4, tel. (+32)
www.pakhuis.be. Just for the impressive interior alone,
Pakhuis is worth a visit. As its name suggests, this place was
once a warehouse, but is now a lively brasserie with more
than a hint of chic. Pakhuis serves authentic brasserie cuisine
with Belgian classics like steak tartare - the meat coming
from the restaurant’s own farm. The house specialties also
include oysters (14 kinds!) and seafood. For a small bite, the
bar serves shrimp croquettes or salads, with or without a solid
jenever, whisky or cocktail. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat
12:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. (€30 - 40). PA6UBK
De 3 Biggetjes B-2, Zeugsteeg 7, tel. (+32) 922 44
648, www.de3biggetjes.com. At this classy restaurant
hidden in the Patershol, you can expect carefully prepared
meals at a reasonable price. The three course menu (€34)
gives you a choice of meat and fish and always includes
seasonal products. Chef Ly Chi Cuong worked at a couple of
Belgium’s top restaurants and now serves classic BelgianFrench cuisine. Not a typical Flemish lad you can expect a hint
of his Vietnamese roots on your plate. QOpen 12:00 - 14:00
& 19:00-21:00, Sat 19:00 - 21:00. Closed Wed, Sun. €34.
JAGBK
Domestica B-3, Onderbergen 27, tel. (+32) 922 35
300, [email protected], www.domestica.be. This is one of the best spots in town to be pampered
in the culinary sense. The combination of classic and modern
is not just visible on the menu, but also in the style of these
premises, which date from 1870. Because the restaurant
consists of several rooms, you can choose the space that
best suits your mood. The bar, which is five metres long, is
a work of art in itself, yet we simply adore the black room
with its sober golden details and the gorgeous chandelier. We
can also recommend the private terrace at the back, where
you can catch the last few rays of sunshine. It is possible to
enjoy a Bienvenue from South-Africa for €224 or a single malt
whisky from Taiwan for €22. For those of us who have slightly
less spending money, the leftovers from the cellar are sold
for a lot less. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Mon, Sat 18:00 - 22:00.
Closed Sun. (€36 - 45). PJA6UBK
Godot B-2, Hooiaard 8, tel. (+32) 932 98 208, info@
godotgent.be, www.godotgent.be. Grand Café Godot is one
of the most attractive places in Ghent. The white terrace will try
and entice you to order a cocktail and stay outside, but make
sure you also go inside and try the Westmalle stew or any other
dish from the Belgian menu, in order to taste the rich culture of
Ghent. Godot is typically Ghent: authentically Belgian, young
and sparkling and perfect in the culinary sense. On warm days
you can have a good time sipping your Cosmopolitan on the
terrace outside, with its view of the Hooiaard. There are worse
jobs imaginable than being a reviewer for this guide… QOpen
11:00 - 01:00. (€17 - 23). TJA6ULBK
Sorelle B-3, Onderbergen 38, tel. +32 923 30 015.
Maybe it is the doll’s house interior of Sorelle that attracts
a mainly female crowd, or maybe it is the cappuccinos. They
come with whipped cream instead of milk and are accompanied by a piece of cake and a little glass of advocaat,
a sweet drink made of eggs. The simple menu consists of
steaks, croques, pancakes, pies, daily specials and sometime
whatever the staff suggests. Try their chicken with ‚dragon’
sauce: it’s extremely tender. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon
10:00 - 20:30. Closed Tue, Sun. (€14 - 17). JK
Steendam 66 C-2, Steendam 66, tel. (+32) 478 34 28
71, www.steendam66.be. When you go to Steendam 66,
you might think you’ve landed in a Parisian bistro, even though
you are in fact just a stone’s throw from St. James’ Church. In
this bistro - with seating for up to 24 guests - the chef and his
waiter serve you with a smile but have no time for chat. The
menu includes French-Flemish dishes like fried sole, tomato
with hand-peeled shrimps and hand-cut fries and the specialty
of the house: grilled king crab. An address for food lovers who
expect that little extra. QOpen 12:00 - 14:00 & 18:30-22:30,
Sat 18:30 - 22:30. Closed Sun. (€20 - 38). JAGK
Fusion
The ultimate sacrifice: sharing Belgian fries
© Ghent
City Council
A Food Affair B-3, Korte Meer 25, tel. (+32) 922 41
805, www.afoodaffair.be. Good food usually comes with
a higher bill, but if that’s no problem for you and your wallet,
head straight down to the trendy and stylish A Food Affair.
Since 2003 the two Belgium owners have created a small
paradise for fusion lovers in downtown Ghent. The best of
the Asian cuisine is perfectly mingled with some of the better
Belgium recipes. The result is haute cuisine with a slightly
different touch. Make sure you’re not in a rush, because
everything is freshly prepared. Our favorites are the Indian
style beef meatballs in a curry of spicy tomato sauce, and the
Japanese-style chicken. Save some space for the homemade
snickerice. QOpen 18:30 - 21:30, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 14:00.
Closed Mon, Sun. (€21.50-34.90). JAGK
Restaurants
Grill
Amadeus B-2, Plotersgracht 8, tel. (+32) 922 51 385,
fax (+32) 925 98 210, www.amadeusspareribrestaurant.
be. In Ghent and beyond, Amadeus is known for its spare ribs
à volonté (all you can eat). Amadeus opened in 1987 and ever
since their recipe for success hasn’t changed: all you can eat
spare ribs, side-salad and jacket potato with special herb butter
(€15.95). Next to this, they have waterzooi with chicken, mixed
grill, gambas, vegetarian salad… but as they state themselves,
this is ‘a place for ribs’. At Amadeus, tourists, students and
people from Ghent in small or big groups enjoy their meal in
authentic surroundings with art deco mirror walls in the main
room and a charming book collection in the other. On each table,
a red checkered tablecloth is standard. Wine is charged by the
centimetre (really) and in summertime you can eat in the inner
courtyard, complete with greenery and pond. QOpen 18:30 23:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 18:00 - 23:30. Also at Gouden Leeuwplein
7 & Bagattenstraat 199. (€10 - 16). JAGBK
‚t Gents Fonduehuisje B-2, Jan Breydelstraat 30, tel.
(+32) 923 43 405, [email protected], www.
gentsfonduehuisje.be. This was the first place in Ghent to
put fondue on the menu. Surrounded by a lot of wood, sitting
on your wicker chair you can enjoy an old-fashioned, you’ve
guessed it, fondue. Fondue Bourguignonne, fish fondue,
Swiss cheese fondue, mixed fondue, and... chocolate fondue
as dessert. The wine list is a bonus, as ‘t Fonduehuisje
has selected a number of wines which go very well with
the fondue. Although many people might find the decor
somewhat corny, it actually suits this wonderfully homely
way of eating perfectly. QOpen 18:00 - 23:00. Closed Wed.
(€23-28). ABKX
International
Cafe Rene B-3, Gebroeders Vandeveldestraat 2-4, tel.
(+32 ) 922 32 700, [email protected], http://cafe-rene.
tumblr.com/. One of Café Rene’s biggest crowd pullers is
the terrace which covers two sides of this stylish business. On
Sunday mornings you almost have to fight for a chair, when the
road’s closed to motorised traffic to facilitate the weekly book
market. Once inside you can enjoy local products which the
chef lovingly prepares in his half open kitchen. On your way to
the toilets you can watch this professional at work or enjoy the
smells of his cookery. If you’re still suffering from your Ghent adventures the night before, try a large glass of freshly squeezed
Lemon squash, guaranteed to give you enough energy to run a
half marathon. Surprisingly enough the top item on the menu is
the not very common combination of raw egg yolk on equally
raw steak tartare. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 09:00 - 15:00.
Closed Mon. (€15 - 17). TJAULGBKXW
De Graslei B-2, Graslei 7, tel. (+32) 922 55 147, info@
restaurantdegraslei.be, www.restaurantdegraslei.be.
Absolutely one of Ghent’s better restaurants: you will leave
this place feeling as though you have had your money’s
worth, and you will probably want to come back. The food
looks fantastic, and it’s all served by smiling, friendly and
attentive young staff. Spread over two floors of a gorgeous old Ghent house (with a terrace when the weather
allows) the setting - on the canal - is terrific, and overall it
is a treat to dine here. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. (€22 - 28).
TA6UBK
J.e.F. B-1, Langesteenstraat 10, tel. (+32) 933 68 058,
[email protected], www.j-e-f.be. In this stark and ultra trendy
eatery one of the better chefs in Ghent produces his small
masterpieces, which obviously go down well with most guests,
considering how many songs of praise we’ve heard. Jef (a
name combining those of the two owners Jason En Famke)
doesn’t just do lunch or dinner, but you can also come here
on Friday nights for ‚J.E.F. eat late’ and be served five small
dishes for €20. They are considerably healthier than the usual
kebab or fried snack you might have at that late hour. QOpen
12:00 - 22:00, Fri 12:00 - 01:00, Sat 19:00 - 22:00. Closed
Mon, Sun. (€25 - 30). JAK
Korenlei Twee B-2, Korenlei 2, tel. (+32) 922 40 073,
[email protected], www.korenleitwee.be. Admittedly
this may be one of the most popular places in town for tourists, but the surroundings of the Graslei, Korenlei and the
Sint-Michielsbrug is unique. Korenlei Twee’s cherry on the
cake is that you can have lunch or dinner here with a view of
the ‘Kuip van Gent’. Obviously this restaurant comes with
a price tag, but it’s worth every cent. The place in town to
go for lobster, steak tartare or fine wine. The restaurant has
been dressed to perfection and is larger than it seems from
the outside. The advantage of this restaurant, its location,
also carries a negative point: it sometimes takes a long
time to get a table. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
(€28 - 42). PJAUBKX
Mondada C-4, Woodrow Wilsonplein 4, tel. (+32) 922
www.mon-dada.be. The last months we’ve been testing
almost every food joint in Ghent as a mystery guest. This fact
justifies our conclusion that no other eatery in Ghent has a
menu as extensive as the modernly decorated Mondada.
Notoriously indecisive people had better look for another
place - there are that many choices - or they could go and
look for inspiration at the large display bins with dozens of
ingredients. It’s been a long time since we found a place in a
mall so worthy of recommendation. QOpen 08:00 - 20:00.
Closed Sun. (€6-16). PA6UBKXS
27
28
Restaurants
Multatuli C-1, Huidevetterskaai 40, tel. (+32) 922 30
www.eetkaffee-multatuli.be. The name Multatuli won’t
ring a bell with many foreigners, but as early as 1867 this
socially aware Dutchman questioned atrocities being carried
out in Indonesia, and the Fair Trade brand was a direct result
of his campaign. A pub with the same name and the same
objectives can be found in a former director’s residence in
Ghent. The stylish premises, beautiful courtyard garden and
the attractive setting are definitely worth a detour. If you own
a boat you can even moor it right outside. The menu may be
limited in choice, but if you like meat, fish, chicken or vegetarian
dishes you’re bound to find something to your taste. On the
other hand, it’s a lot harder if you’re after a drink. Few places
in Ghent offer such an extensive list of warm, cold and alcoholic
drinks. Also check out their brand new restaurant De Stokerij.
QOpen 16:00 - 22:30, Sun 17:30 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (€7-24).
TJALBK
Roux A-3, Papegaaistraat 79, tel. (+32) 922 41 120,
[email protected], www.roux-gent.be. One of the coolest places in Ghent lies just outside the city centre. In 2010,
Roux came up with a new concept by offering many types
of wine by the glass (you could normally only order by the
bottle). It was a success right from the start. The carefully
chosen interior is designed to model the latest trends, but
it might not be everybody’s cup of tea. Loads of luxury:
brown leather chairs and golden flower vases adorn the
beautifully decorated room. Besides regular coffee, you’ll
find Cuban, Russian, French and even love coffee here.
This all, of course, comes at a higher price, of about €7.
QOpen 17:00 - 22:00, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon,
Sun. (€25-57). AK
‚t Oud Klooster B-3, Zwartezustersstraat 5, tel. (+32)
923 37 802. Oud Klooster is therefore a non-pretentious
brown pub/food joint serving portions big enough to feed
even a famished reporter’s hunger. The spaghetti, lasagne
and brochette are the best sellers here. As for the decor,
expect statues of saints, icons and Jesus prints everywhere.
And note that since many of the the treasures of this former
monastery have never been found, it might be a good idea
to bring your metal detector. QOpen 18:00 - 23:00. Closed
Sun. (€6 - 11). JGBKX
Villa Bardon C-1, Sluizeken 10, tel. (+32) 933 61
713, [email protected], www.villabardon.be. Sharing
and passion for food, seems to be the big themes of this
restaurant that serves mediterranean dishes. The quality
of the food is excellent, friendly staff, nice interior. But when
you eat ravioli with crabmeat and it costs €22 it is nice to be
served a bit of bread, without having to ask for it yourself...
But the great chili chocolate mousse made us quite happy
and forgiving. QOpen , Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun 18:00 - 22:00,
Fri 12:00 - 14:00, 18:00-22:00. Closed Tue, Wed. (€15-28).
JAGBK
Italian
Aperto Chiuso C-1, Sleepstraat 82, tel. (+32) 923 37
264. In the middle of a neighborhood packed with Turkish
shops and restaurants you might not expect to find an Italian
restaurant, even less so if you pass by during the day, when
all you will see is a parked Vespa and an old map of Italy. It is
only at night that Aperto Chiuso reveals itself as a restaurant, one serving authentic Italian dishes with a little twist;
Vegetarians have plenty of choice here. If you’re lucky enough
to come during beautiful weather, try to get hold of a table out
in the garden. QOpen 18:30 - 23:00. Closed Wed. (€15 - 22).
TLNBK
Eat Love B-3, Ajuinlei 10a, tel. (+32) 479 87 93 87, [email protected], www.eatlove.be. Eat Love serves
no meatloaf but traditional, paper-thin pizzas with not so traditional combinations. We liked the ‘half and half’ (two different
pizzas in one) with one half pizza with rucola pesto, stracciata
and tartar of tomato and the other half with mushrooms, truffle
cream and rucola. The pizzas also come with a gluten free
base or in a mini-version with grilled vegetables and salad. The
trendy interior with lots of wood and black accents is rather
dark, so try to come at night. Between 17:00 and 19:00 it is a
real aperitivo bar, snacks being served with your drink. QOpen
11:30 - 15:00 & 18:00-23:00. (€9 - 15). JGKS
Il Mezzogiorno C-2, Baudelokaai 17, tel. (+32) 922 43
329, www.ilmezzogiorno.be. We are calling it Italian, but
that’s actually selling this restaurant short. Sicily isn’t only
famous for its Mafia gangs, ancient ruins and the volcano
Etna, but its cuisine is one of the best in the world, too. That
was the reason why the owner started this small food joint in
1997. In a cozy, homely setting, you can enjoy traditional antipasti and homemade pasta. Note: no prefabricated rubbish
is used here, but only honest Italian products and ingredients.
Even in the men’s room you’ll see the love the owners have for
their products, by way of the drawings of pasta on the walls.
Privacy might be hard to find in this quirky restaurant, but
the food here is amongst the best in Ghent. QOpen 12:00 14:00 & 18:00-22:30, Sat 18:00 - 22:30. Closed Mon, Sun.
(€9-23). JNK
Quick bites
McDonald’s B-2, St. Michielshelling 1, tel. (+32)
922 32 420, fax (+32) 922 43 251, www.mcdonalds.be. Belgium in total has 63 outlets of this American
hamburger chain, Ghent has its fair share with two
branches. This McDonald’s has actually put some effort
into its interior design, but the food isn’t any different
from its other locations. As always, burgers and fries are
cheap, fast and filling.One plus: the view towards Ghent’s
biggest market square is unbeatable. QOpen 09:00 23:00, Fri, Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 23:00. Also at
Martelaarslaan 17. PTJA6ULGKSW
Snack Tosi B-5, Overpoortstraat 18, tel. (+32) 934
20 369. If there were a competition for latest closing
time, Snack Tosi would have a good chance of winning.
Until 5am you can fill yourself with fries, doner kebabs
and sandwiches at this Turkish fast food place. It is one
of the few late-night eating spots in this student populated area, so it can get quite lively here even long after
midnight. Quite unexpectedly, the restaurant is stylishly
decorated, nicely lit and has a very neat and clean appearance. The kebabs are tasty and attractively served
in a basket, but the meals are definitely not the cheapest
in town. QOpen 11:00 - 05:00, Sat, Sun 17:00 - 05:00.
(€3 - 5). GKS
Subway C-4, Lammerstraat 14, tel. (+31) 933 55
325, www.eatsubway.be. Subway is another American
fast food chain that’s quickly infiltrating European cities.
Albeit not as numerous or successful as McDonald’s
or Burger King, it’s a pleasant step up from those two.
The food menu is almost identical to that of the other
20 Belgium Subway restaurants, so if you’re craving a
meatball parm or a healthy tuna sub, then take a seat in
this tiny place. QOpen 08:30 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 19:00.
Closed Sun. Also at Groentenmarkt 16 (+32 933 55 128).
(€3 - 5). PTJAGKSW
Restaurants
Japanese & Sushi
Student restaurants
Ikurasushi B-1, Oudburg 7, tel. (+32) 922 37 083, info@
De Brug C-4, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 45. Although it’s a
ikurasushi.be, www.ikurasushi.be. The location in a popular
shopping/food street is a big bonus, and this stylish restaurant
is a must for hungry yuppie shoppers who can choose dishes
from separate menus: sushi or general Asian food prepared by
a Korean chef. Most regulars go for the combo mix, served by
the friendly Nepalese staff. While the somehow dissapointing
food won’t have you sending a raving text message to all your
friends, Ikurasushi is still a good place to go, especially if the
other sushi bar in this street is completely full and you love Asian
food. Keep some space for the delicious red bean ice, which
tastes much better then it sounds... QOpen 11:30 - 14:30 &
17:00-23:00. (€15 - 21). JLVKS
decent life writing for this guide, every once in a while we yearn
for the time when we were carefree students. Especially when
you look at what dining possibilities students have in Ghent
these days. There is a choice of eight student restaurants
and eleven cafeterias, where students can eat very cheaply
five days a week. Let’s face it, you don’t go to these places for
their interior designs; even a crematory has more character.
Moreover, even though there’s plenty to choose from, none
of the food was amazing. Still, it’s cheap, and packed with
beautiful students. QOpen 11:15 - 14:00 & 17:30-21:00.
Closed Sat, Sun. Check the website for all locations and
opening times. KS
Ramen Noedelbar B-1, Oudburg 51, tel. (+32) 472
Surinamese
337236, [email protected], www.eetramen.be. Studio
Simple has turned this mini-space into a very cosy noodlebar,
where you can enjoy a great Ramen (a specific type of noodles)
meal, alongside fish, meat or vegetarian options. The food is
great - maybe a bit on the pricey side given that Ramen is
street food and sold quite cheaply - and they serve the best
lemonades and teas. Make sure either to be on time or have
a late lunch, since the place is really small and always packed.
QOpen 12:00 - 14:30. Closed Mon, Sun. (€8-14). JGK
Sushi-food C-3, Limburgstraat 36, tel. (+32) 922 52
sushi-food.com. Besides well-known sushi and teriyaki, this
popular place has a special item on the menu: one of Japan’s
favourite desserts, dorayaki. These red bean pancakes are
crepe-like sweet pancakes that are popular all over Asia. You
can nest yourself down in the 25 seated restaurant to eat,
or take your food home and wash it down with sake. Sushifood also sells ingredients so you can make you own sushi.
Unfortunately the skills of the qualified staff is something you
have to acquire yourself... QOpen 11:30 - 18:00. Closed Mon,
Sun. (€12 - 15). JALBKS
Sushi Palace B-1, Oudburg 37, tel. (+32) 933 60 102,
[email protected], www.sushipalace.be. As far as top
sushi restaurants go, you’d have a hard time finding a better place than Sushi Palace, which is located in picturesque
Oudburg, in the vibrant heart of Patershol. Sit down at one
of the small, intimate tables and eat as much sushi as you
can stuff down your throat from the Grote Mix Combo: a
half-metre long tacky wooden boat filled to the rafters with
48 kinds of sushi. The cheerful and cosy area near the large
windows to the front, and upstairs, are excellent, although
the romantic seats in the long alley are inviting too. QOpen
12:00 - 14:30 & 17:30-22:30, Tue 17:30 - 22:30. Closed Mon.
(€9 - 15). JALGKS
Spanish
Hogar Español A-2, Hoogstraat 75, tel. (+32) 922 59
517. About four decades ago, many Spaniards emigrated
to Ghent and its surroundings for work. Many since have
returned. Those who have stayed are often seen at Hogar
Español, a Spanish enclave on Belgian territory. Don’t bring
your passport but do come with your most friendly mood so
you will fit right into this relaxed setting. Grandma Sinda rules
the kitchen and makes every meal a tribute to Iberian cuisine.
Even half a Spanish omelette will feed an entire football team.
The homemade sangria is another must. Feel free to order
something that’s not on the menu, because this aged culinary
star will cook it for you and no doubt she’ll give it her own
twist. QOpen 18:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. (€10 15). ZTJLNGBKXS
Faja Lobi C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 2-4, tel. (+32) 922 35
533, [email protected], www.fajalobi.be. Suriname
is one of the lesser known countries in South America. Its
cusine too, which is is a fascinating mix of Asian and African
influences, is very much underestimated. However, inhabitants
of Ghent are lucky enough to have Faja Lobi, which brings a
little bit of subtropical warmth into Ghent on even the bleakest
of days. Don’t expect haute cuisine in this simple and cosy
place, but just let yourself be surprised by affordable unknown
dishes including pomtayer sandwich, fried banana and spicy
tuna. The massala lamb stew with roti is another finger licking
dish, which is literally the case here as many dishes are eaten
without cutlery. Watch out: the steep stairs to the toilets on
the first floor are not easy to climb, even when sober, let after
a few shots of Caribbean rum... QOpen 08:00 - 01:00. Also at
Tarbotstraat 31. (€13 - 15). TJLNGBKXS
Tapas
La Malcontenta B-2, Haringsteeg 7/9, tel. (+32) 922
41 801, [email protected], www.lamalcontenta.
be. In 1987 Marisbel Rodriguez -from La Palma- introduced
the Canarian kitchen in Ghent, at La Malcontenta. The name of
the restaurant survived but the concept changed : Marisbel’s
sons and a friend transformed the restaurant into a tapasbar.
Unconventional tapas in a very nice surrounding, what more can
a person wish for? (maybe only for the climate of La Palma?)
QOpen 16:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon. (€3-10). JAK
Thai
Le Baan Thaï B-2, Corduwaniersstraat 57, tel. (+32)
923 32 141, fax (+32) 923 32 009. Without doubt the
best Thai restaurant in Ghent. Unfortunately not the cheapest though: as anywhere else, quality comes at a price.
Visiting this wonderfully located restaurant is a true treat for
your taste buds. If you can actually make a choice from the
very large menu, that is. The decor deserves a compliment
as well. In contrast to most Thai restaurants this place is
not dominated by cheap knick-knacks, but the rooms have
instead been furnished with stylish elements which give this
establishment that little bit more atmosphere. Even the
cutlery exudes style. We recommend the Thaise Wandeling
(Thai Walk), which takes you on a culinary exploration of one
of the best cuisines in the world in four abundant courses, for
only €35. QOpen 18:30 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 18:30 - 22:30, Sun
11:00 - 14:00. Closed Mon. (€14 - 18). PAK
€1= GBP £0.85; US$1.30
(2 June 2013)
29
30
Restaurants
Turkish
Aspendos B-1, Oudburg 11, tel. (+32) 923 35 770. It
might not be the cheapest Turkish restaurant in Gent, but
it is certainly one of the better ones, and moreover, a spot
where sincere hospitality is still the rule and not the exception.
Even our clumsily knocked over glass of wine was filled to the
brim again: no fuss, no bother and no extra charge. It’s these
small things that sets the place apart from its competitors;
especially when you realize that Aspendos is only a stone’s
throw away from the Sleepstraat, where dozens of other similar restaurants are fighting for the same customers. Also, the
(reasonably priced) portions that are served here are to be
praised for both their taste and size. QOpen 11:30 - 24:00.
Closed Tue. (€10 - 14). TJLNBK
Vegetarian
Avalon B-2, Geldmunt 32, tel. (+32) 922 43 724, info@
restaurantavalon.be, www.restaurantavalon.be. Try the
dish of the day, which is always a surprise : your plate is filled
with little heaps of njammie food. And why not try their freshly
made carrot, apple and ginger juice? If you had a rough night
out and you are planning to start a healthier life, this is the
place to be to detox or just simply enjoy a nice vegetarian
meal. QOpen 11:30 - 14:30. Closed Mon, Sun. (€11-15).
ZTJNGBKS
Cuisine OuVerte Annonciadenstraat 4, tel. (+32)
489 10 56 05, [email protected], www.
veggie-cuisineouverte.be. In the mood for some veggie
grub? One of the latest additions to Ghent’s ever expanding
list of vegetarian restaurants is Cuisine ouVerte. Albeit small,
the all-green lunchroom feels warm and welcoming, with
beautifully tiled walls and a charming chalk board explaing
today’s menu. During lunchtime, the friendly staff opt for the
tried and tested buffet formula: you can enjoy hearty soups
and there’s a choice between a hot and a cold buffet. Cuisine
ouVerte also offers a takeaway formula as well. At night, the
chef goes all out and prepares a three-course meal, which
changes weekly. Vegans will be happy to hear most dishes
are fit for them, although staff urge you to mention it as you
order. The food is lovely (the mushroom ragout is an absolute
must), surprising and comes at a reasonable price. QOpen i
11:45 - 14:30, 18:00-22:30, Sat 18:00 - 22:30. Closed Mon,
Sun. (€6-13). ZTJGKS
De Appelier C-6, Citadellaan 47, tel. (+32) 922 16 733,
[email protected], www.deappelier.be. How
fitting for a vegetarian restaurant to be situated near one of
Ghent’s green lungs, the Citadel Park. Admittedly, to get to De
Appelier, one of the oldest vegetarian eateries in Ghent, you
first have to cross the busy Citadellaan. However, once you
enter, you will feel as if you’ve set foot in another world: the
lunchroom is rather grand but cosy, but the showstopper (in
summertime) is the lovely back garden. On sunny evenings
you could pretend to be in the South of France as you sip your
organic beer. Every day, De Appelier offers two dishes of the
day, consisting of a wide variety of ingredients, all depending
on the eight (!) chefs’ creativity on that particular day.. There is
also a seasonal salad on offer. (The blue cheese one is worth
a try) At night, a simple pasta dish is added to the menu. The
restaurant labels itself as ‘ovo-lacto vegetarian’, meaning its
chefs prepare every meal using all organic ingredients, including eggs and dairy products: sorry, vegans. One final tip: the
salad dressing accompanying the plat du jour is truly one of
the best we’ve tried. Consider getting the recipe to try out
at home your challenge if you decide to eat at De Appelier.
Good luck! QOpen 11:30 - 14:00, 17:30-20:30. Closed Sat,
Sun. (€9-13). ZTGBK
Out of town
Nenuphar Afsneedorp 28, tel. (+32) 922 12 232,
[email protected], www.restaurant-nenuphar.be. Ghent is a lovely city, but what many
people don’t realize is that the city is surrounded by a few
idyllic picturesque small villages, where the rivers Scheldt
and Lys meander through the green flat countryside. Here
painters and writers were inspired in places like St.-Martens-Latem, Afsnee and Deurle.In Afsnee we stumbled
upon a nice restaurant, named Nenuphar, where you can
choose from a dazzling menu, serving a selection of fine
food. Try the Gentse Waterzooi, a typical dish from Ghent,
or the ‚paling in het groen’, eel served in a delicious green
sauce. Their secret ingredients? The lovely surroundings
and the beautiful view on the river and small town church
might just be their muse. Definitely worth the detour.
QOpen 12:00 - 14:30, 18:30-22:00, Sat 18:30 - 22:00.
Closed Wed, Thu. (€16-33). ABK
De Walrus A-3, Coupure Links 497, tel. (+32) 927 93
848, [email protected], walrus-gent.be. De Walrus is
‘een lichtbruin café’, Dutch for ‘it is not fancy enough to take
fashionistas to but the place to be at if you fancy a typical place
where the locals hang out.’ There is a huge selection of beer,
other alcoholic beverages (Belgians are pretty good at that) and
they also serve delicious vegetarian food for less than €13. It is
a bit of a walk from the city centre, but in that way you can walk
off all the extra calories from the beer or food on your way back.
QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Sat 12:00 - 01:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00.
Closed Mon. (€5-12). TAGBKW
Komkommertijd C-3, Reep 14, tel. (+32) 485 73 16
17, [email protected], www.komkommertijd.
be. This place advertises itself as a ‚vegan all you can
eat’ buffet, the only restriction being that you need to finish
your plate first before you go for some more of their very
tasty vegan goodies. The food is delicious, the setting isn’t
that nice though, but drink an extra glass of that biological
wine, and you may not even notice this anymore. Another
plus : vegetarian restaurants tend to be open only during
lunchtimes, here at least vegetarian and vegan fellows can
fill their stomachs at a later hour. QOpen 11:45 - 14:30,
18:00-22:30, Sat only evening. Closed Mon, Tue. (€13.50
- 16). ZTJGKS
Lekker Gec A-6, Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein 5, tel.
(+32) 924 28 750, [email protected], www.lekkergec.be. You’ll find no fastfood meals or a varied menu
here, but rather, a ‚what you see is what you get’ mentality.
From their semi-open kitchen, the cooks keep filling the
biological salad bar and five caskets with food. A soup of
the day completes your vegetarian menu. And since you’re
paying for your meal by weight, you will automatically find
yourself buying less than usual, so waste is marginal here.
Those who do not only look but also see, will find that the
whole concept of Lekker Gec is also ecologically sound not only do you pay for a healthy meal but you’ll also help
create a better environment. And that feeling is priceless.
QOpen 12:00 - 21:00, Sun 12:00 - 15:00. (€1.50 / 100 gr).
ZTJ6NGKSW
Tasty World B-2, Hoogpoort 1, tel. (+32) 225 74 07,
[email protected], www.tastyworld.be. This chain
of (healthy) fast food restaurants aims for an eco-friendly,
green image and this has been applied literally inside this
colourful place, from the dark green walls to the light green
wooden floor. The young staff care about preparing your fresh
Restaurants
juice, milkshake or sandwiches which are so fresh they are
still warm. If you want more to choose from, have a look at
the blackboard on the wall which shows the daily specials,
neatly categorised as Juice, Soup and Burger. Although the
seats are quite comfortable, most visitors choose to take
their food out. QOpen 11:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. Also A
Tasty World at Walpoortstraat 38, Mon - Sat 11:00 - 20:00
(€6-12). ZTJ6GBKSW
Warempel C-2, Zandberg 8, tel. (+32) 922 43 062,
[email protected]. The name of this restaurant
sounds pretty exotic but means nothing more than ‚sure
enough’. Indeed, this cosy restaurant serves good food,
and sure enough it will even please the carnivores amongst
us to convert to the vegetarian kitchen -even only for this
once-. The dish of the day is a true delight! Q Open 11:45
- 14:00. (€9-13). ZTJNGK
Ghent’s Culinary Prodigies: The Flemish Foodies and Beyond
Belgians are nicknamed ‘Burgundians’, because - just
like the Burgundians of the Middle Ages - they adore their
food and drink. The people of Ghent are no exception.
As Ghent is a hub of creativity, it comes as no surprise
that Flemish Foodies have chosen the city as a breeding
ground for their innovative culinary experiments.
Jason Blanckaert, Olly Ceulenaere and Kobe Desramaults, the so-called Flemish Foodies, are three
slightly unruly chefs with a unique culinary philosophy.
Each recipe that comes out of their kitchens is not only
delicious, but is topped with a substantial amount of
rock and roll.
Jason Blanckaert recently
opened his place j.e.f.
(which stands for Jason
and Famke, his girlfriend)
right in the city centre. The
restaurant’s stark interior
with white-washed walls
and wooden tables reflect
the straightforward style
o f Jason’s cuisine. ‘Re fined rural’ is the label it
was given by those in the
know, because the young
chef likes to keep it simple. This simplicity does not
detract from his talent, passion and basic culinary guts,
though. Prices are reasonable to boot: having lunch at
j.e.f. will set you back a mere €25. And nighthawks
can rest assured: every Friday you can have a bite at
j.e.f.’s until 1 AM.
Always pushing boundaries
is what Flemish Foodies are
known for. This is especially
true for Olly Ceulenaere, who
will be taking over De Avonden (The Evenings) during
2013. Olly is leaving Volta to
open his own business with
his girlfriend Kelly. Thanks
to Olly, Volta, located in a
unique brick building, with
a lively mezzanine bar, has
become synonymous with gourmet cuisine in a relaxed
atmosphere, at affordable prices. Olly has not yet
named his new ‘baby’, but one thing is for sure: the new
restaurant will stay true to the Flemish Foodies’ style,
i.e. good food prepared from good products, grown with
love and respect, yet accessible to all.
2012’s ‘Chef of the Year’ Kobe Desramaults’ bistro restaurant
De Vitrine has been much loved from the word go: without
reservations chances of getting in are slim. This tiny restaurant
used to be a butcher’s, but
now the storefront makes for
a cosy bar where you can have
a pre-dinner drink. The dining
room itself might be quite
small and noisy, but the no
frills approach to contemporary gastronomy and the reasonable prices, make for an
excellent dining experience.
The Foodies’ have certainly
stirred things up in Ghent’s culinary scene. Michaël Vrijmoed –
previously Belgium’s masterchef
Peter Goossens’ right-hand-man
– opened his restaurant Vrijmoed just a few months ago. His
style can be termed a bit more
traditional, as Vrijmoed takes
his lead from classic BelgianFrench cuisine. Still, fans of
good honest food are sure to
enjoy Vrijmoed’s rising culinary
star. Another promising young foodie is chef de patissier
Joost Arijs. His brand-new chocolatier and patissier in the
centre of Ghent, has been attracting lovers of chocolates,
pralines and patisserie from all over the world. After tasting one of his unique ‘Diamant’-chocolates, you can’t but
agree with renowned culinary guide Gault Millau, who gave
Joost ‘the best Patissier of Belgium’-award.
j.e.f. B-1, Lange Steenstraat 10, tel. (+32) 933 68
058, www.j-e-f.be. QOpen 12:00 - 14:00 and 19:00 22:00, Fri 12:00 - 14:00 and 19:00 - 01:00, Sat 19:00
- 22:00. Closed Sun, Mon.
Volta Nieuwewandeling 2b, tel. (+32) 932 40 500,
www.volta-gent.be. QOpen 12:00 - 14:00 and 19:00
- 21:00. Closed Sun, Mon.
De Avonden C-2, Ham 39
More information on this new concept soon.
De Vitrine C-3, Brabantdam 134, tel. (+32) 933 62
808, www.de-vitrine.be.QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Sat
18:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun, Mon.
Vrijmoed C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 22, tel. (+32) 927
99 977, www.vrijmoed.be. QOpen 12:00 - 13:30 and
19:00 - 21:30. Closed Sun, Mon.
Joost Arijs C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 24, tel. (+32)
933 62 310, [email protected], www.joostarijs.
be. QOpen 9:00 - 18:30, Sun 09:00 - 16:00. Closed
Mon, Tue.
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32
CAFÉS
Ghent has a fantastic café culture, and it is difficult for
visitors not to be caught up in its all-encompassing, warm
atmosphere.
Look out too for our selection of Museum Cafés:
great little places located right in the heart of some of the
city’s best museums.
Ice cream
Australian Homemade C-4, Woodrow Wilson-
plein, www.australianicecream.be. This large
chain specialises in gourmet chocolates and ice
cream that can be enjoyed on the premises of the first
floor in this shopping centre. It also offers sorbets
and so-called ‘ farm creams’ that are supposedly
made according to outback recipes from Down Under.
Although this last claim seems a little dubious since
the chocolate they use is Belgium-made, the final
product is tasty nonetheless. This outlet has limited
seating to enjoy one of the 18 choices. Don’t leave
without having tried the Didgeridoo sorbet. Q Also
at Veldstraat 21. TJA
Gelateria Ferrara C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 127,
tel. (+32) 922 55 550, fax (+32) 922 55 560,
inf o@gelateriaf errara.be, w w w.gelateriaf er rara.be. This truly Italian gelateria perfectly blends
in with this hip and trendy neighbourhood. Lots of
shoppers take a break from shopping here for the
delicious homemade ice cream and when we saw
the mouth-watering selection of gelato we understood why. In case your stomach needs something
more than ice cream, you will also find ciabattas,
pancakes and the ‘pasta of the day’ on the menu.
QOpen 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. (€5 - 10).
TJAGBKXS
Moochie B-2, Klein Turkije 14, info@moochie.
be, www.moochie.be. Moochie is quite simply
heaven-on-earth for frozen yogurt lovers (and yes,
they write it without the h). Since May 2012 this
American invention has been improved in true Belgian
style, with everything made from local cow’s milk.
There’s a deli-style counter where you can pick any
decadently rich topping you like from a wide selection
of fruit or crunchies, and make your own delicacy.
It’s 100 per cent natural, uses fresh ingredients and
sounds almost too good to be true, but isn’t. It’s the
real deal. QOpen 11:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 20:00. Closed Mon. TJS
Nonno C-3, Kortedagsteeg 22, tel. (+32) 475 23
62 62, [email protected], www.nonno.be.
As soon as the sun appears from behind the clouds
and the temperature just slightly rises, people begin
lining up at this tiny ice cream shop. Delicious homemade and daily fresh gelato is what makes Nonno
one of the most popular spots for local ice cream
addicts. The Belgian-Italian owner has continued
what is a family ice cream making tradition and in
all modesty he told us he just tries to make the best
gelato in Ghent. In our equally modest opinion, we
think he has succeeded. Note that the opening times
are somewhat dependent on the weather; Nonno
often closes early on days when the sun stays at
home. QOpen 13:00 - 22:00, Sat 13:00 - 18:00.
Closed Sun. TJS
Coffeehouses and Breakfast venues
Barista
C-3, Hippoliet Lippensplein 25, tel. (+32) 488 46 98 30,
[email protected], www.mybarista.be. Barista can be
found on the corner of the Vlaanderenstraat and Brabantdam,
and there’s another one near Vrijdagmarkt. Both places are
charming and offer a nice selection of coffees, sandwiches,
cakes, fruit juices and organic delicacies. The staff -a smile
on their face- and the excellent service and quality of the
food and drinks, gives you the feeling you never want to go
home anymore. If you want to impress your better half, go
and rent their picturesque and romantic Barista boat, for a
private lunch or dinner (don’t worry : the skipper is included
in the price). QOpen 08:00 - 18:30, Sat 09:30 - 18:30, Sun
09:30 - 18:00. Also at Meerseniersstraat 16. Open Tue - Fri,
08:00-18:00, Sat, Sun 09:30 - 18:00. ZJBSW
Den Hoek Af C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 1, denhoekaf@
gmail.com. Den Hoek has to be one of our favourite spots.
Finally, here’s a cafe owner who’s not led by marketing concepts but who speaks and serves from the heart. While this
approach might have resulted in a hodgepodge of different
styles, it provides the place with an atmosphere that would
thaw even the most cold-hearted person in the world. Sit down
on one of the many second-hand chairs or sofas and enjoy
a fresh juice, homemade soup or one of the delicious cakes.
QOpen 08:00 - 19:00. Closed Sun. TJBW
Huize Colette C-2, Belfortstraat 6, tel. (+32) 478 90
64 73, [email protected]. Chocolate, coffee and
second-hand books: that basically sums up the lovely Huize
Colette, a tranquil hideaway right in the busiest part of Ghent.
If you’re looking for a place to kick back and enjoy the most
delicious things in life, just order a scrumptious scone, a spicy
‘17th Century’ hot chocolate and take a seat in the iconic green
sofa. Early birds can enjoy a lovely breakfast, with a brownie
to boot. Have a read in one of the books displayed all over the
quaint shop, and why not buy one to take home as a souvenir.
There’s free wifi, which is especially appreciated by Ghent
students, who often set up camp with their course books and
a brownie... or two! QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 19:00. Closed Mon. TJGW
Julie’s House B-2, Kraanlei 13, tel. (+32) 923 33 390,
[email protected], www.julieshouse.be. Cup-cakes are
what Julie’s House does best. You can enjoy all different kinds
in this English like coffeehouse, where you can feel like Alice in
big sweet Wonderland. Even if you don’t like the sweet stuff,
this friendly two-storey cafe is still a great place for a long, lazy
breakfast. With free internet, a cool atmosphere and lots of
locals around it’s little short of perfect. The banana cake is
a house favourite. QOpen 09:00 - 18:30. Closed Mon, Tue.
TJAGBSW
Mokabon B-2, Donkersteeg 37, tel. (+32) 922 57 195,
[email protected], www.mokabon.be. Mokabon is where
you can arguably find ‘the best coffee in Ghent’. And at a reasonable price at that! Although the coffee is definitely great,
and invariably served with a lush dollop of whipped cream,
the people alone are worth the visit. As the tiny tables are
quite close together and the place is always buzzing, you get
the opportunity to have a chat with the locals. This authentic
little coffee shop was established in 1937 by a young Italian,
one of those habitués told us. He then urged us to try one
of Mokabon’s delicious waffles with powdered sugar, which
turned out to be a lovely treat. Aside from a wide selection
of coffees and teas, you can also try a healthy smoothie or a
homemade caramel iced coffee. Mokabon’s muffins, donuts
and baguettes make for an excellent excuse to hang around
CafÉs
a little longer. If you’re in a rush, just grab a coffee to go, from
the colourful take-away window. And don’t forget to take home
some freshly ground Mokabon coffee for your mum. QOpen
11:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JGS
OR C-3, Walpoortstraat 26, tel. (+32) 922 36 500,
www.orcoffee.be. If someone would ask us where you can
get the best coffee and the best brownies of Ghent, at OR
would be the correct answer. This nice little place offers you
a fantastic selection of coffees, homemade lemonades and
splendid teas. It’s also the only place in Ghent where they
serve bagels, and that also deserves an extra star! Don’t
hesitate to walk inside if the windows are steamy, just hop
in and enjoy this nice little gem. QOpen 07:30 - 17:30, Sat,
Sun 09:00 - 17:30. TJNGSW
Lunchrooms
Balls & Glory C-2, Sint-Jacobsnieuwstraat 103, tel.
(+32) 486 67 87 76, www.ballsnglory.be. Wim Ballieu
is the Flemish version of Jamie Oliver (in his earlier years),
presenting a cool new formula: meatballs (even vegetarian
ones). Ever tried a meatball filled with cherries, black olives or
even rhubarb? You can enjoy your lunch in this nice setting, and
your meatballs will be accompanied with stoemp (mashed
potatoes). You can even buy some meatballs to surprise
your other half in the evening with a romantic dinner (you
can always pretend you’ve turned into a fantastic cook with
aspirations for your own culinary TV-programme). QOpen
10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sat, Sun. JAGKS
Café Labath
A-2, Oude Houtlei 1, tel. (+32) 922 52 825, [email protected], www.cafelabath.be. Café Labath is situated in a
unique corner building, and is known around town because
of its warm retro design. A distinctive vintage bar, a colourful
mosaic wall and comfy white designer chairs make you perk
up as soon as you walk in. To chase that bad mood away
for good, try one of Labath’s yummy ‘slow coffees’, skillfully
prepared on the spot by their award winning baristas. This is
more than coffee, this is art. Feeling peckish? Why not order
a sandwich with real Ghent Tierenteyn mustard, freshly
made soup, or a piece of delicious cheesecake (made by
Julie’s House). QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 19:00,
Sun 10:00 - 18:00. TJGBSW
De Poort Croissanterie D-2, Oktrooiplein 12, tel.
(+32) 922 39 822. Located right next to Dampoort railway
station, this place has everything a passenger might need.
You can buy newspapers, magazines, cigarettes, soft drinks,
sandwiches and bus tickets here. In case you have to wait a
while for your train, why not sit down and have a coffee or a
beer on the outside terrace? If you really have a long waiting
time, you could order a soup or toasty. De Poort is just left
of the main entrance to the station: follow the signs with
‘taverne’ written on them. QOpen 06:00 - 19:00. Closed
Sat, Sun. (€2 - 6). GBKXS
Gwenola B-3, Volderstraat 66, tel. (+32) 922 31 739,
[email protected], www.gwenola.be.
Gwenola belongs to the heart of the culinary scene in Ghent;
maybe not when it comes to high-quality dishes, but most
certainly because of its authentic feel. Since 1963, students,
shopping ladies and pensioners have been eating pancakes
here - be it with a twist, because in the two separate Gwenola
joints the pancakes are served according to a recipe from
Breton, in France. The majority of the staff here might not
be young and hip, but their sincere friendliness and speedy
service are textbook. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00. Closed Sun.
Also at Donkersteeg 12-16. TJLGBK
Het Leescafé C-4, Graaf van Vlaanderenplein 40, tel.
(+32) 477 77 27 63, [email protected]. You’ll find this
spacious lunchroom on the first floor of the public library. This
reading café is also open for non-members of the library and,
aside from the reasonably priced soups, sandwiches and pastas, it offers (hot) drinks and alcoholic beverages (in Belgium,
reading a good book or an interesting magazine requires an
ice cold pint of beer by your side). There is a large sunny terrace with a panoramic view of thousands of commuters, and
you can also go and have fun by studying the monumental
stained glass window here, by the artist Herman Blondeel.
QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
(€3- 8). TJULNBK
Het Salon C-4, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 194, tel. (+32)
922 50 355. Het Salon is a typical student bar. It is literally
located at the foot of the Boekentoren, which is characteristic
for Ghent and exudes knowledge and literature. The place is full
of tables where students sit working at their laptops. You have a
choice of many kinds of tea,coffee or student-friendly affordable
cakes and sandwiches. Surrounded by books, paintings and
students that sandwich tastes just that little bit better. QOpen
08:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. (€3 - 6). AUGKW
Le Bar Depot, Bistro & Brocante C-2, Beverhoutplein
14, tel. (+32) 485 44 04 25. Le Bar Depot opens at 6am
on flea market days. Despite the early hour, bubbles are the
most served drinks here. While sipping Champagne, Cava
or Kirr Royal, art lovers get in the mood before the market
starts. The heated terrace is extremely popular but the huge
chandeliers, intimate seats and paintings from great artists
also make the inside a nice place to sit. As you might expect
from a chic place like this, the service is good. Prices are very
reasonable though. QOpen 06:00 - 14:00, Sat 06:30 - 14:00.
Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu. Breakfast €5 - 11. JG
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34
CafÉs
Simon Says B-1, Sluizeken 8, tel. (+32) 923 30 343,
[email protected], www.simon-says.be. At the edge
of Patershol, one of the loveliest districts of Ghent, at
a major traffic artery, there’s Simon Says. In an artistic
setting, inside or outside, you can enjoy all sorts of coffee, smoothies, chai teas, one of the four draft beers, or
something from a whole list of wines. The homemade
pies, too, are an attraction. The mosaic-covered tables,
the paintings by Flemish artist Panamarenko on the wall
(married to Eveline Hoorens, who delivers the coffee beans
here) and the lounge music create a relaxing atmosphere.
The fresh soup of the day and the Club Simon sandwich
are also good reasons to visit as often as possible. QOpen
09:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. (€3 - 8).
JA6GBKXSW
Soep+ C-4, Lammerstraat 33, tel. (+32) 922 31 688,
[email protected], www.soepplus.be. If you’re up for
a freshly made soup or a sandwich at Soep+, you’d better
take a good look at the opening hours. This sleek joint is only
open for four hours a day, Monday to Friday. Besides three
different kinds of soup, you can choose between five varying
sandwiches and three salads every week. QOpen 11:00 15:00. Closed Sat, Sun. (€4 - 9). JKS
Ventura Sint-Jacobsnieuwstraat 25, tel. (+31) 933
54 759, www.linoventure.be. This place offers a nice
alternative to all the other places offering the same old (ham
& cheese, the old time classic prepare (raw meat), chicken
Bakeries
Jacquet C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 118, tel. (+32)
922 54 725, [email protected]. A visit to
Jacquet is like lowering yourself into a nice warm bath.
Although the original French owner of this lunchroom
sadly passed away years ago, his kind spirit still floats
about in this cosily decorated joint. The whole left side
of this recently renovated place is filled with displays of
homemade pies, biscuits and other sweets, while on the
right you’ll find six sets of tables and chairs that fill up
every inch of space. Privacy might be hard to find here,
but the relaxed ambiance, the attentive staff and the
charming owner make a visit all the more worth it. QOpen
06:00 - 19:00. Closed Tue, Wed. ZJAGBKS
Oud Huis Himschoot B-2, Groentenmarkt 1, tel.
(+32) 932 90 904. For over a century the charming
Bakkerij Himschoot, located at the Groentenmarkt, has
been known for its tasty homemade bread. The process
of crafting and baking the artisan Himschoot bread has
remained largely the same as a hundred years ago:
quality ingredients are mixed, hand shaped, and baked
in small batches in masonry ovens on site. Every nook
and cranny of the tiny bakery is filled with tasty treats,
such as the infamous ‘Gentse neuzen’. Recently, the
bakery opened a second shop, Oud Huis Himschoot,
near St Pieters station. Here you can also grab a loaf of
your favourite specialty bread, but why not hang around
and enjoy a simple but generous breakfast. The cosy
breakfast area boasts a large table and a few smaller
ones, surrounded by a collection of quirky sixties paraphernalia. The syrupy jam and the croissants are particularly delightful. An ideal way to get your energy levels up
before exploring Ghent. QOpen 07:30 - 18:00, Sat, Sun
08:00 - 18:00. Also check out Oud Huis Himschoot at
Koningin Elisabethlaan 57. Opens daily at 08:00. Closed
on Wednesday. TJSW
Walpoortstraat café, photo by Reine Ortiz
curry). You can enjoy soup, a sandwich here, while trying to
decipher the Flemish newspapers. Don’t forget to try a piece
of homemade cake before you’re off on the streets again.
QOpen 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. TJNGS
Vooruit C-4, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 23, tel. (+32) 926
72 820, vooruit.be. One of the most popular places to
have lunch in Ghent. The monumental building itself is worth
a look even if you are not eating. In 1914, the labour movement in Ghent started using this place as a cultural centre
for its members and factory managers alike. Yet while the
original socialist mentality might have been lost years ago,
you can still have lunch here for highly reasonable prices.
Chalkboards announce the dish of the day, there’s also a
vegetarian option. If you like to finish your meal with a good
cup of coffee, we advise you to check our list of coffeehouses,
since the coffee here isn’t the best you’ll find in Ghent. QOpen
10:00 - 02:00, Mon, Tue 10:00 - 01:00, Sun 16:00 - 01:00.
TJALEGKCW
Museum cafes
Mub’art B-6, Fernand Scribedreef 1, tel. (+32) 922 14
489, [email protected], www.mubart.be. This eatery is
located in the cellar of the Museum voor de Schone Kunsten
(Museum of Fine Arts) and its grey, green and orange colours
form a great contrast to the high ceilings and light rooms
inside the museum. Don’t expect a culinary feast, but instead
affordable dishes, some of whose names alone will tickle your
fancy, unless you are already familiar with dishes like the Flemish tutjespap (a particular kind of mashed potato) with sorrel
or almond croquette. Also, the extensive wine list stands out.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 22:00. Closed
Mon. (€7 - 13). THAULBKS
STAMcafe A-5, Godshuizenlaan 2, tel. (+32)928 58
350, [email protected], www.stamgent.be. This museum presenting the city’s history opened in October 2010,
and is definitely worth a visit. But even without visiting the
museum, you should try to have lunch at the museum’s café
: a nice selection of sandwiches and typical dishes of Ghent
: you must try the Gentse stoverij (a kind of goulash). The
location, Bijloke, is a former medieval hospital, where you
can still feel the ghosts’ presence of former plague victims...
Don’t tell us we didn’t warn you... QOpen 09:30 - 18:30.
Closed Mon. (€9 - 12).
Nightlife
Once again, the number of pubs in Ghent has increased
this past year. It would almost certainly be possible to visit
a different pub every day of the year, without ever visiting
the same place twice. It is also worth noting that, even
though Ghent is a genuine student city, it doesn’t die at the
weekend, when many students go back to their home cities. Ghent also has more than its fair share of good clubs.
Bars
Café Afsnis C-2, Bij Sint-Jacobs 10. Of the handful of
alternative cafes in Ghent, this one is our favourite. Located
at the attractive square of Bij Sint-Jacobs, there are a wide
range of restaurants and bars nearby, but the unpretentious
Afsnis has stole our hearts the moment it opened in 1996.
On sunny days, make sure you arrive here early, because the
sun-bathed patio chairs are in high demand, and not only with
the exhibitors and visitors of the flea market that takes place
here every weekend. The charm of Afsnis is that it attracts a
wide variety of cafe lovers who all admire and praise the cosy
and homely atmosphere of the place. And with a choice of
nearly thirty different beers, you don’t have to stay thirsty in
this rather sparingly furnished bar. QOpen 10:00 - 04:00, Fri,
Sat, Sun 08:00 - 04:00. T6LNGBXW
Café den Turk C-2, Botermarkt 3, tel. (+32) 923 30 197,
[email protected], www.cafedenturk.be. The oldest
cafe in Ghent (1228) is still one of the most popular. In 1944,
this was even the homebase of the Canadian allied forces
during the liberation. In fact, the interior of this brown cafe has
not changed much since World War Two. With wonderful retro
lamps, the black and white chequered floor, the wooden tables
with red cloths and the lace curtains, this pub could well be a
location for a historic drama. The Belgian beer menu is rich with
choices and you all beer comes in the correct glass. QOpen
11:00 - 01:00. JG
Café Jan van Gent A-3, Annonciadenstraat 1, tel. (+32)
925 60 203. Although bird watchers won’t find the tough sea
bird Jan-van-Gent in urban Ghent, the relaxed atmosphere
makes visiting this cosy pub with the same name definitely
worth your while. Although the furniture is a wild mix of styles,
somehow it all comes together perfectly. Come and have one
of the five beers on draft, if you’re interested in the story of
the many stuffed animals on the wall and the large window. Our
tip: the blond Keizer Karel (Charles Quint). The two different
outdoor terraces, with heated chairs, are also real crowd pleasers. QOpen 10:00 - 01:00. LGBKXW
De Belleman B-2, Botermarkt 8, tel. (+32) 922 40 152,
[email protected]. Long before the introduction of
the Internet, radio and television, town criers or bell men went
around to make loud public announcements of all important
new laws and (naturally) gossip. This age old profession may
have died out in most of Europe, but in pub De Belleman this
tradition is still honoured. Over the years landlady Marie-Paul
has collected a large number of bells which are nicely put on
show in her authentic pub. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Sat 11:00
- 01:00, Sun 11:00 - 20:00. Closed Mon. JNB
De Spinnekop Einde Were 42, tel. (+32) 922 30 088,
[email protected]. You have to put a little effort in to
finding this place, as De Spinnenkop isn’t exactly in the centre
of Ghent. But those who are tired of student-like behaviour and
like to turn their backs on the groups of tourists every once in a
while, are welcome in this authentic watering hole. One look at
the opening hours and you’ll realize that the owner of the place
couldn’t care less about what everyone else does, as he keeps
his little pad inconventionally closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
A look at the exteriors reveals that the property has seen better
times - a lick of paint and a bit of putty could work miracles. On
the inside, too, the past glory is hinted at, but it does not seem
to bother any of the patrons at all: they’re only interested in the
affordable price of their Jupiler beer, at only €1.40. QOpen
20:00 - 02:00. Closed Fri, Sat. LNGX
Dreupelkot B-2, Groentenmarkt 12, tel. (+32) 922 42
dreupelkot.be. This small but very cosy pub has a selection
of more than 200 kinds of jenever (Dutch gin). The owner even
regularly distills his own stuff. Just never say to him that all jenevers are similar, because he won’t be amused and will teach
you a thing or two. He will explain the art of producing jenever
in detail, so you will never again consider it to be just something
old men drink. QOpen 16:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. JG
Geus van Gent C-5, Kantienberg 9, tel. +32 922 07 825,
[email protected], www.geuzenhuis.be. Café Geus
van Gent offers a second home to the free spirits of Ghent. They
come here to talk about life, play some pool, receive inspiration
or sit back and get drunk. With either a glass of wine, a cocktail
or a home brewed bear. Or two. The different areas, the mix
of homely furniture and the relaxed background music, make
that everybody feel instantly at ease here. Wednesday night
you can attend jam sessions for free. QOpen 16:00 - 3:00,
Sat, Sun 19:00 - 5:00. . JLG
Herberg De Dulle Griet B-2, Vrijdagmarkt 50, tel. (+32)
www.dullegriet.be. Brown bars are rarely as brown as De
Dulle Griet. Take a seat in the ‘old Flemish interior’, as the sign
outside says, and choose from over 250 different beers on
offer. If you pick the ‘beer of the month’ you get a second one
for free, but the speciality is definitely the ‘Max on the house’,
a beer which is served in such a special glass that it requires
you to hand over your shoe as deposit! Yet another oddity,
this is probably the only bar in Belgium which is named after
a canon; the red canon dating from 1431 down the road on
Groot Kanonplein to be precise. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00, Mon
16:30 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 19:30. JGB
Live Music
Kinky Star C-2, Vlasmarkt 9, tel. (+32) 933 57
342, [email protected], www.kinkystar.com.
Every new metal band in Belgium seems to have been
founded in Kinky Star. The last fifteen years, thousands
of (wannabe) rock artists have been baptised here. But
mind you: Kinky Star does not limit itself to one specific
style - you’ll also hear Flemish hiphop, electro music and
plenty of rock here. The stage out back turns into a seating area later in the evenings. And believe it or not, Kinky
Star is also an excellent place for cocktails. For those
who like the ambience, but hate the music, you can get
free earplugs at the bar. QOpen 18:00 - 03:00, Tue, Sun
18:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon, Wed. JLEGB
La Resistenza C-3, Brabantdam 82, tel. (+32)
925 60 967, [email protected], www.laresistenza.com. As far as food’s concerned La Resistenza is no more than average. Yet as far as small
scale live performances are concerned this music pub
is definitely one of the better places in town, where you
can enjoy intimate jazz concerts or see new bands. The
beer here is actually cheaper than water, just like in the
Middle Ages. QOpen 16:00 - 02:00, Sat 18:00 - 02:00.
Closed Wed, Sun. JLEGBX
35
36
Nightlife
Microbreweries
Brewery Gruut C-3, Grote Huidevettershoek 10,
tel. (+32) 926 90 269, fax (+32) 922 52 332, ingrid.
[email protected], www.gruut.be. In the Middle Ages
city dwellers had a valid excuse to drink beer on a daily
basis. This alcoholic brew had been boiled and was therefore a much safer drink than the polluted water. The only
remaining city brewery in Ghent, Gruut, is unique in that
it doesn’t use hops in its five different beers, but a mix of
herbs. Even after having tried them several times, we are
not really able to tell you which one is our favourite. The
White, Blonde, Amber, Brown and Inferno beer each have
their own characteristic flavour. There are regular tours of
the brewery, when you are given a torrent of information
in just forty minutes. Allegedly, the mayor of Ghent can
be observed naked on a large painting, even when you’re
sober... QOpen 11:00 - 22:00. JEBK
Het Spijker B-2, Pensmarkt 3 - 5, tel. (+32) 932 94 440.
Even though Het Spijker might not be very clear about what
audience it’s targeting, the place is packed every single day, and
everybody in this centuries-old spot seems to be fine with that.
From old hippies to students, from shopping women to rockers.
Even though the large terrace at the front side is filled to the
last spot once there’s a tiny bit of sunshine, the rear (through
the smoking area) reveals a small hidden terrace with a lovely
view over the Leie. Don’t leave Het Spijker without having a look
at the inside of this monumental building, too - be it for the cool
girls that serve you, or the swinging blues rock music they play
here. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00. JA6LGBXW
Het Trefpunt C-2, Bij Sint-Jacobs 18, tel. (+32) 922
53 676, fax (+32) 923 31 037, [email protected], www.
trefpunt.be. It’s been around for decades and yet Trefpunt
Café has never lost its hip image. This is a pub for real music
lovers of all types and styles of music. Whether you’re looking
for singer-songwriter classics or house music, you can find it
here at weekends. Even on a hangover Monday this place is full
of people chatting away while nipping on their Jupiler. QOpen
17:00 - 02:00. JLB
Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant B-2, Groentenmarkt
9, tel. (+32) 922 50 680, fax (+32) 922 40 479, info@
waterhuisaandebierkant.be, www.waterhuisaandebierkant.be. It won’t be easy to find another pub in Ghent
where beer is as important as in this place. With a selection
of no less than 160 Belgian beers and 17 of those on draft,
you can’t go wrong. Name any Belgian beer and they’ll pour
you one, from Aardbeienbier (Strawberry beer) to Zinnebir
(a Belgian ale). Add the good atmosphere in this typically
Belgian pub - few are more authentic - and the staff who
are always willing to give you an explanation of the beer
they’ve just poured for you, and suddenly you’ll be six beers
further down the line. Simply brilliant. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00.
JA6UEB
Jos C-2, Vlasmarkt 7. Jos is located on the best square
in Ghent for going out, the Vlasmarkt. It’s not the kind of
pub where you go for a chat, because the music is too loud,
although there are usually quite a few couples and groups of
friends desperately trying to communicate with each other.
It’s also impossible to detect a particular style in the DJ’s
choice of music. On the other hand, Jos’ artistic atmosphere
is fabulous. Black and white photographs of artists and murals of lascivious objects combine well in this pub. It’s also
a good place for cocktails. QOpen 16:00 - 04:00. Closed
Mon, Sun. JLNG
Kaaiman C-3, Reep 9, tel. (+32) 923 43 410, www.
kaaimancafe.be. Kaaiman calls itself another kind of
bar with another kind of interior, menu and music. So yes,
it’s not the kind of bar you’ll find at the nearby hotspots
of the Vlasmarkt and the Oude Beestenmarkt. At this
spacious bar with lounge music, the interior is modern but
modest. All tables are widely spaced out and the menu
gives a fairly wide selection of beer, aperitifs and spirits.
The atmosphere is relaxed and the two bar owners rarely
rush. Still, Kaaiman is missing some schwung. Perfect
for a quiet drink in a stress-free ambience though. QOpen
15:00 - 02:30. Closed Mon, Tue. JGBW
Limonada B-3, Heilige-Geeststraat 7, tel. (+32) 923
37 585, [email protected]. With its trendy and cosmopolitan look, this pub offers the opportunity to step outside
typically Belgian nightlife for a while. Slightly hidden in the
Heilige-Geeststraat, with a front door that hardly stands
out, you get the feeling you’ve found a hidden gem when you
come here for the first time. Relaxed, trendy and loungy are
words that describe Limonada best. But above all this is
one of the better places to come to in Ghent for a cocktail.
The strawberry daiquiri in particular is worth a try, although
the expert staff will be able to give you a number of other
tips. QOpen 20:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. J
Old Fashioned Koning Albertlaan 115, tel. (+32) 927
95 215, [email protected], www.old-fashioned.
be. Since February 2012, Ghent has its own cocktail and
absinthe bar. At this peaceful place close to St-Pieters
station, you drink your cocktail at a reasonable price. Tom
and Steve, the bartenders in white shirts and braces, make
the cocktails according to the original recipe. For the longbanished absinthe, you have to ask for the separate menu.
On a week night, it is very quiet at the bar but the suitable
old-fashioned décor makes you feel at home. The menus in
English are an extra plus. QOpen 20:00 - 01:00, Fri 19:00 01:00, Sat 17:00 - 01:00. Closed Sun. (€8 - 9). G
Rococo B-2, Corduwaniersstraat 57, tel. (+32) 922
43 035. If you’re having trouble finding Rococo in Patershol’s medieval surroundings, look for an establishment
solely lit by candles. In this restful environment, which is
further enhanced by classical background music and a
crackling fire (in winter), you cannot help but relax. For nearly
25 years owner Betty has been the driving force behind this
oasis. The landlady pampers her guests, usually consisting
of artists, creative minds and the occasional tourist, without
being in the way. Lovebirds receive a free, home made love
potion... QOpen 22:00 - 03:00. JG
Cocktails
Jigger’s B-2, Oudburg 16, tel. (+32) 933 57 025,
[email protected], www.jiggers.be. You have to pass
the face check at the door here, before you’re allowed to
descend to the cellar. The handwritten menu is packed with
recipes for delicious cocktails with extraordinary names
like Green Beast, Horses Neck and Run Crusta. But the
booklet also mentions the house rules: ‚Behave like real
men and women’ and ‚No loud talking and no talking about
fighting.’ The well-dressed staff, with suspenders and bow
ties, supervise the place and are always ready to advise
you. A must! QOpen 17:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 02:30.
Closed Mon, Sun. (€9 - 11). JLG
Polé Polé Café C-4, Lammerstraat 8, tel. (+32)
935 66 700, fax (+32) 935 66 710, info@polepole.
be, www.polepole.be. Two exotic cocktail bars in one.
Polé Polé café is decorated in African spheres and has a
Nightlife
large wooden bar with all the necessary cocktail-making
equipment. Attached to this African style bar is a Mexican
style bar called the Gringo. Here you will see sombreros
on the ceiling and drink ... you guessed it, exotic cocktails.
The Gringo bar opens a bit later than Polé Polé, at 20.30.
Both bars use the same entrance, the same toilet facilities
and at both you can enjoy the same Latin music. QOpen
19:00 - 02:00. J6GX
Poppi Cocktail & Lounge bar B-2, Korenlei 10, tel.
marriottghent.be. An absolute eyecatcher in the centrallylocated Marriott hotel, whose large glass dome functions as
the beating heart of this luxurious place. At the foot of this
six-floor transparent wall, you’ll find an oasis of peace and
quiet. By day, this red-and-black coloured lounge area serves
as a meeting place for hotel guests and anyone who wants to
be pampered. Later in the evening, the relaxing music here is
often disturbed by the sound of shaking, when the bartenders
do their best Tom Cruise moves with their cocktail shakers.
With prices way below those of similar bars, this spacious
spot is an absolute must. Every Wednesday, there’s live
piano music; every Friday, it’s Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm.
QOpen 07:00 - 01:00. PJAULGKW
Jazz bars
Hot Club de Gand B-2, Groentenmarkt 15b, tel.
(+32) 486 74 07 99, [email protected],
www.hotclubdegand.be. You will have to pay attention to
find the entrance to this place, which is in a narrow alley off
Groentenmarkt that is easily missed. Once you found the
entrance, chances are that you will then be searching for a
spot to sit down. The Hot Club is often packed, and we totally
understand why. Five days a week (Friday and Saturday are
the exceptions) jazz bands play for a generally young crowd,
making it a great place to spend a relaxing evening. Live music
is performed on the ground floor, but you could also sit at the
somewhat improvised upper floor or on the lovely terrace
outside. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00. JEGBX
Hotsy Totsy A-2, Hoogstraat 1, tel. (+32) 922 42
012. Check out the wallpaper at this fancy jazzbar : you
will immediately feel in the mood to order a cocktail or just
sip a Martini. If you’re less in the mood to watch around
and feel fancy, you can always invite your friends to come
over for a board-game or a game of pool. QOpen 18:00,
Sat, Sun 20:00. JN
Jazz Café Damberd B-2, Korenmarkt 19, tel. (+32)
932 95 337, [email protected], www.damberd.
be. For more than 25 years Damberd has been a wellestablished name in Ghent. Jazz enthusiasts of all ages
have made it their fave spot, but really anyone who enjoys
good music, a drink and a chat is welcome here. It can be
difficult to find a seat on busy nights, but once you’ve found
one it won’t be easy to drag yourself home. Damberd’s beer
list is quite extensive. QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Sat 12:00 01:00, Sun 13:00 - 01:00. 6EBX
Minor Swing C-2, Ottogracht 56, tel. (+32) 494
90 64 83, [email protected]. This jazz bar
might just be one of our favourite ones in Ghent : nice
atmosphere, good music, very good wine and friendly staff.
Every first Sunday of the month, there’s a live gig. QOpen
18:00 - 03:00. JN
Misterioso C-1, Krommewal 96, tel. (+32) 474 72
11 06, [email protected], www.misterioso.be. The
location, along a busy road in the middle of a residential
area on the edge of the city centre, is not the best. However,
this is the only downside we can think of. Misterioso is a
lovely jazz bar with a great vibe. It is one of those places
designed for conversations about literature, philosophy
and, of course, music. Every once in a while you can see live
jazz bands playing here, usually on Wednesday evenings.
The interior features dusty sofas and a piano that looks
like it has survived both World Wars, but in our opinion the
rickety furniture creates a nicely warm ambiance. Another
prominent element in the interior is the bumper-billiard table,
but you might want to ask the staff about the rules of the
game first. QOpen 16:00 - 03:00. JENGBX
Pubs
Mosquito Coast B-2, Hoogpoor t 28, tel. (+32)
922 43 720, [email protected], www.mosquitocoast.be. For a moment we imagined ourselves in a
backpacker\s pub on the Caribbean Mosquito Coast.
That was until we looked outside the window and saw rain
drizzling on Hoogpoort shopping street. On rainy days, this
traveller’s pub can severely trigger the imagination and just
seeing all the lovely photographs, maps and souvenirs from
exotic places around the world makes us sometimes forget
the beauty of our own city. Mosquito Coast not only is a
source of travel inspiration, it is also the place to meet
fellow globe trotters. Drinks and dishes from all continents
can be ordered, of which the local favourite is the Mac Marrakech. There is even a travel agency conveniently located
at the entrance. QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Sun 15:00 - 01:00.
Closed Mon. J6GBKX
Billiards & Pool
Café De Ploeg C- 4, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat
13, tel. (+32) 477 55 83 78. This large bar is a
great place to hang out and play a few games of pool.
An hour of pool at one of the three excellent tables
costs €8. You can also play foosball, throw darts
or try to beat the high-score on the pinball machine.
Owner Danny has enough CDs stacked behind the
bar to make sure you will have a nice evening and
thanks to a large balcony, smokers will also feel very
welcome. The bar is located in the section of SintPietersnieuwstraat just north of Vooruit. Look for the
door with number 13a and walk up the metal stairs.
The entrance is the left door with a ‘non-smoking’
sticker on it. QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Sat 20:00 02:00. Closed Sun. JGBKX
Overpoort Bowl B-5, Overpoortstraat 38, tel.
overpoortbowl.be. If we didn’t know any better, we
would think the only thing local students do is hang
around here. Or to put it differently, it wouldn’t surprise us if the Overpoort Bowl was amongst the top
five reasons for lecture absenteeism. This large bar,
located in the heart of the student district, is often
flooded with students playing games of pool, trying
to hit a strike at the bowling lane or pressing buttons
on arcade machines. There are also foosball tables,
dart boards, large TVs showing football matches and,
not unimportantly, inexpensive drinks on offer. In any
case, you don’t need to be a student to come here.
Pool costs €6 per hour and there are seven tables to
choose from. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun 14:00
- 02:00. GBX
37
38
What to see
There is much to see in Ghent, from the old industrial parts
of the city which have become hip, trendy arts venues to
the fine Gothic architecture of the city centre.
There are fine parks and gardens too, and some seriously
good museums. We have a guide to the best of it all.
Essential Ghent
Ghent Illuminated Tel. (+32) 926
67 760, fax (+32) 926 67 799,
www.gent.be/gentverlicht. Due to
a comprehensive light plan, Ghent can
be wonderfully re-explored after sunset. All of the city’s main monuments
are attractively illuminated at night,
which brings a different perspective to
the medieval sights. Details of buildings which are concealed during the
day become accentuated at night. The Graslei is superbly
lit and the illuminated Belfry shouldn’t be missed either. The
city has developed a two hour walking tour past Ghent’s
illuminated highlights, and you can pick up a brochure with
the walking route at the tourist office, or you can download it
from the website. TJ6
Graslei B-2, Graslei. It’s very
simple. You haven’t really been
to Ghent if you haven’t seen
the Graslei. Together with the
Leie River and the Korenlei on
the opposite side of the water,
this is Ghent’s prime highlight
and the bustling heart of the
city. From the 11th century until
the late Middle Ages, the quays of Graslei and Korenlei served
as the city’s main port as well as a major trade centre for
grain. The buildings at number 9 and 12 are former guildhalls
of grain traders and the building at number 10 used to be
a wheat storehouse. The latter building is also the oldest
step gable house in the world, and dates from the 12th
century. On sunny days, the quays of Graslei and Korenlei
are usually packed with people, simply because locals love
to hang out at this picturesque spot. The best views of the
Graslei are from St Michael’s bridge or from Korenlei across
the Leie River. J
Great Beguinage Groot Be-
gijnhof 67, tel. (+32) 922 82
308, [email protected],
www.grootbegijnhof.be. This
remarkably large beguinage is
an oasis of serenity within the
bustling city. The walled village
was constructed in 1873 as
a replacement for the older St
Elisabeth’s beguinage, which by
that time had almost completely lost its closed character due
to the city’s expansion. Over 700 devout women moved to the
new location at Sint-Amandsberg to continue their religious
life in quietness. Throughout the 20th century, the number of
beguines continuously decreased until the last beguine died
in 2003. Despite the fact that the Great Beguinage has now
lost its original function, the gates are still closed from 23:00
until 06:00 and it truly remains a haven of tranquillity. At the
centre of the largely neo-gothic beguinage stands a tall church,
which is surrounded by eight hectares of greenery and houses,
making it a beautiful place to spend a quiet afternoon. Together
with several other beguinages around Flanders, the Great
Beguinage of Ghent is listed as UNESCO world-heritage sight
for its historical value. QOpen 06:00 - 23:00. 6B
The Belfry B-2, Sint-Baafsplein,
tel. (+32) 937 53 161, www.belfortgent.be. The Belfry is the middle
of Ghent’s famous row of three-towers
and the proudest symbol of the city’s
independence. The dragon on top of
the tower is the symbolic guardian of
the city privileges, which were kept in a
trunk in the ‚secrecy room’ until 1539.
You can’t make it to the dragon, but you
can climb a long way up and enjoy an
amazing view over the city. Every Friday and Sunday, Ghent’s
carillons perform concerts. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Admission:
adults €5. JL
Town Hall B-2, Boter-
markt 1. Both the interior
and exterior of Ghent’s
City Hall faces many different styles of architecture,
from Gothic to Renaissance, from flamboyant
to sober. The City Hall is
probably the most popular
spot in Ghent for weddings, and since 2011, it’s even possible to get married in the
Ghent dialect here. Q Opening times vary, closed on Fridays
and weekends. J
Boat tours
Rederij De Gentenaer B-2, Groentenmarkt, tel. (+32)
926 90 869, fax (+32) 923 15 484, [email protected], www.rederijdegentenaer.be. Standard guided
tours at De Gentenaer will take you for 50 minutes along the
Leie River, allowing you to view the city’s highlights from a
different perspective. Boats are decent and large enough for
at least 20 people. Beware though that the boats are roofless, so if dark clouds are appearing in the sky, it might be
wise to postpone the river journey for a while. Guides are well
equipped with all sorts of fun facts and trivia, which they will
narrate in Dutch, English and French. The point of departure
is near Groentenmarkt, next to the entrance of ‘Waterhuis
aan de Bierkant’. Departure times depend upon the weather,
with intervals between leaving boats varying from 10 to 30
minutes. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Adults €6.50, students and
60+ €6, children under 12 €3.50. TJ
Buildings
Achtersikkel C-2, Biezekapelstraat. Walk through the
narrow S-shaped street just north of St Bavo’s Church and
you will find a delightfully quiet courtyard surrounded by
14th and 15th century buildings. Achtersikkel is named
after the aristocratic Vander Sickelen family, which resided
here for several centuries. The tall round tower has a renaissance style gazebo dating from 1566, which unfortunately
is inaccessible to the public. Since the early 20th century,
Achtersikkel has housed Ghent’s conservatoire, so you
might be able to enjoy some classical music while admiring
the medieval architecture. J
Castle of the Counts B-2, Sint-Veerleplein 11, tel.
(+32) 922 59 306, fax (+32) 923 35 037, www.gent.be.
The Gravensteen Castle, originally a fortress built by Count
Boudewijn I in about 868, was rebuilt as a castle at the behest
of Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders. The structure, situated
in the heart of Ghent, was once a residence of the Count and
was later used as a cotton mill but is now a tourist attraction in
itself, as the only remaining medieval castle in Flanders. This
What to see
impressively restored castle reveals much about its history,
residents, medieval weaponry and jurisdiction. The icing on
the cake is the unforgettable view over the historic centre of
Ghent. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Admission: adults: €8, 19-26
years: €6, under 19: free. TJAL
Hotel d’Hane-Steenhuyse B-3, Veldstraat 55. This
and since 1904, the state archives’ office has been housed
here. Only the reading room of the archive office is accessible
to the public. You get the best view of this intriguing structure
from Reep. J
The Episcopal Palace C-3, Bisdomplein
stately building with its rococo frontage is located in the
heart of one of Ghent’s most important shopping streets.
Although the name Hotel is somewhat misleading, as you
cannot stay here any more, the rich past of this building from
1767 is still tangible in every detail. Where the architectural
heritage association is now housed, important visitors such
as the French king Louis XVIII, Tsar Alexander I of Russia and
King William I of the Netherlands once spent the night. The
large, octagonal hall is a model of architectural beauty, while
the pick of the interiors however is the ballroom, two floors
high. In the 1990s the premises were thoroughly renovated,
making sure future generations can relive the grandeur of
its past. Unfortunately you can only look at the impressive
interior a few days each year. J
2, www.kerknet.be/
bisdomgent. Sin ce
1845, this white palace
has been the residence
of the Bishop of Ghent.
In order not to create too
much contrast with St
Bavo’s Church, the architect added neo-gothic elements to
the mainly neo-classical structure. Look for instance at the
typically gothic tracery in the windows or the crockets at the
balcony. The palace by itself might not be very impressive,
but with the National Bank on the left, some white-coloured
buildings on the right and the Episcopal Palace in the middle,
the square as a whole does look rather nice. J
Masons’ Guild Hall B-3, Sint-Niklaasstraat 2, tel.
The Little Toll House Graslei 11. If you don’t pay attention, you’ll walk past this house without even noticing it.
Nevertheless, there lies a history in what is the narrowest
house on the Graslei. The little Toll House is built in an alley
that provided quick access to the water in case of fire and is
squeezed between the storehouse (now Belga Queen) and
the Tweede Korenmetershuis. In the 17th and 18th century,
the Toll House was used as a place to collect taxes on grain.
Clearly, the public servants didn’t need much room. The
gable of the house dates from the 17th century and probably
replaced a wooden medieval façade. In 1912, the house was
restored and now serves as a tiny pub.
(+32) 926 92 600, [email protected]. The
building opposite St Nicolas’ Church, which now houses the
regional tourist office, was drastically reconstructed in 1852
and at the time everyone thought the original façade of the
masons’ guildhall was lost with the rebuilding. When the city
decided it wanted to show the architecture of guildhalls at
the World Expo of 1913, however, a copy of the façade was
erected at Graslei. The original masons’ guildhall was once
again reconstructed in 1976 and to everyone’s surprise, the
gothic façade was found under a thick layer of plasterwork.
The restored façade of the building dates from 1526, when
masons demonstrated their masonry skills in their own
guildhall. At the top of the beautiful stepped gable, six bronze
figures that ‘dance with the wind’ can be spotted. For the copy
of the façade from 1912, look for the building named Den
Enghel at Graslei 8. J
The Aula Academica
B-3, Volder sstraat 9.
Once you see the auditorium of Ghent’s University,
you will probably consider
taking up studying again.
Judging from the facade,
it’s hard to imagine how
glorious th e in terior is.
Entering the lecture hall
instantly makes you feel
underdressed since it’s more like entering an ancient theatre.
The bad thing: the Aula Academica is not open to public. But if
you’re lucky, you can usually enter the building without being
reprimanded. J
The Castle of Gerald the Devil C-3, Geraard de Duivelstraat 1, tel. (+32) 495 45 36 91, [email protected],
www.duivelsteen.be. Few buildings have such a fascinating
history as the Castle of Gerald the Devil. The grim fortress
was constructed in the early 13th century by the legendary
Gerald Vilain, who was the son of the viscount of Ghent and
got nicknamed ‘the devil’ due to his dark appearance and
black hair. From its construction until 1378, the castle had
been inhabited by nobles and knights. After that, the city
bought the colossal building and used it for a whole variety
of purposes. To sum it up briefly, the castle has been: an
orphanage, a monastery, an asylum for the mentally insane,
a music academy and a fire station. At the end of the 19th
century, the Belgian state bought Gerald the Devil’s castle
‚t Toreken C-2, Vrijdagmarkt 36, tel. (+32) 922 52 225,
www.poeziecentrum.be. The oldest building at Vrijdagmarkt was once the guildhall of Ghent’s leather tanners. It
fell into decay in the early 20th century, but in the 1980s the
building was renovated. It now houses a poetry centre. ‘t
Toreken is named after its main feature: the tall watchtower.
On the top of the tower, you can see a mermaid who turns
with the wind and symbolically protects the inland waterways.
There are no stairs in the whole building, because its former
inhabitants used ladders to climb the tower. The logic is that
ladders could be pulled up in case someone attacked the
building. Renovations brought an elevator, which is said to be
the slowest in Belgium, because too much vibration would
damage the monument. J
Het Lam Gods
In the autumn of 2012, a
five year renovation programme began, intended
to renovate and restore the
panels of the Lam Gods.
The restoration is necessary to prevent further
hardening of old layers of
varnish. The panels will be
treated in the Museum of
Fine Arts in Ghent in different stages. Throughout the
whole process, the panels
of the Lam Gods that are
not being restored will remain in the Sint-Baafskathedraal for all to admire.
39
40
What to see
Zwembad Van Eyck C-2 & C-3, Veermanplein 1, tel.
(+ 32) 923 52 740, www.gent.be. Zwembad van Eyck is
the most monumental bathhouse in Belgium: the history of
the eleven tubs, showers, and 68 tiled changing cubicles
here go back a hundred years. The roof with glass elements
completes the art deco feel of the building. At the start of
construction in 1886, Van Eyck was the third bathhouse
in Belgium to be built in this style, a trend that had been
started in Liverpool in Britain earlier that century. In 2003,
the architectural masterpiece got a new entrance. On the
first floor, you’ll find the restaurant Au Bain, from which you
can enjoy the gorgeous interior of the building. Q Opening
times vary depending on school holidays, so check the
website. TJLC
Churches
Augustine Monastery B-1, Academiestraat 1, tel.
(+32) 922 51 659, fax (+32) 922 42 033, klooster.
[email protected], www.osabel.be. Since 1295 the Order
of Saint Augustine has been housed in this large monastery
and it is still inhabited today by a small community of monks.
As the monastery is large and the living community is small,
the gorgeous building is frequently rented out by various
organisations for exhibitions and conferences. Nevertheless,
visitors are welcome to walk around the courtyard and see the
monastery’s St Stephen’s church, which became a popular
site of pilgrimage thanks to a chapel dedicated to Saint Rita
of Cascia. Another treasure is the impressive library, dating
from 1720, which can be visited on request or as part of a
guided city tour. Like many other monasteries and abbeys in
Belgium, the Augustine monastery once brewed its own beer.
It is now brewed by Van Steenberge yet by drinking Augustijn
you contribute to the restoration works in the monastery.
QOpen 07:00 - 12:30 & 14:00-18:30. JHU
Carmelite Monastery A-2, Burgstraat 46, tel. (+32)
922 55 787, [email protected], www.karmel-gent.
be. Through the ages, the Carmelite monastery has been a
centre of quietness and spirituality. Ghent’s Carmelite monks
were known for their particularly strict and sober lifestyle,
which is still observed by the current community of nine
monks. The monastery basically consists of a large garden
surrounded by several buildings, of which only the 18th century church is open to visitors. But if you kindly ask one of the
monks, chances are that you can see the beautiful garden as
well. On request, it is even possible to stay at the monastery,
though it is only intended for people who are seriously looking
for serenity, reflection and quietness. QOpen 07:00 - 11:30 &
14:30-19:00, Sat 07:00 - 11:30 & 14:30-18:00, Sun 09:00 11:30 & 14:30-18:00. HUL
St Anne’s Church
D-3, Sint-Annaplein
1, tel. (+32) 922 38
009, www.kerk-ingent.be. In the early
nineteenth centur y,
the Het Zuid neighbourhood developed
rapi dl y, cau sin g a
sharp population
growth in the area. For the increased local population,
construction of a new church started in 1853 to replace
the small Saint Anne’s chapel. Saint Anne’s church, built in
the eclectic Rundbogenstil, was never fully completed, but
opened anyway in 1862. The façade was recently renovated
and currently renovation works on the western side are taking place. Unfortunately, the church only opens its doors for
Sunday mass and is not open for visitors. Q J
St Bavo’s Cathedral
C-3, Sint-Baafsplein,
tel. (+32) 926 92 045,
sint-baafskathedraal@
ke rkn e t.b e , w w w.
sintbaafskathedraal.
b e. Th e Sain t Bavo
Cathedral, originally a
chapel from 942 built
for Saint-Jean-Baptiste,
is the location where
Emperor Charles was
baptised. During that period the church changed
from Romanesque to
a grand Gothic church.
The only remnant of the
Romanesque church is
the crypt, which is open
to visitors. Despite many gifts from the emperor, the church
remained unfinished for 58 years. The Saint Bavo Cathedral
houses a number of special art works, including the rococo
pulpit by Laurent Delvaux and many sculptures and wood
carvings. The high altar dates back to the beginning of
the 18th century. The cathedral’s undisputed show piece
is the master piece Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (aka
Ghent Altarpiece) by the brothers Jan and Hubert van Eyck.
The polyptych can be admired in a chapel which has been
equipped with a special secured glass cage. An €4 entrance
fee is charged for this. QOpen 08:30 - 18:00, Sun 13:00 18:00. Admission: €4, children up to 12 years: €1,50. J
St. James’ Church
C-2, Bij Sint-Jacobs,
tel. (+32) 922 32 526,
www.kerk-in-gent.be.
In 1093 a wooden chapel
was constructed for pilgrims on the St. James’
Way to Santiago de Compostella and in the middle
of the 12th century, the
chapel was replaced by a
Romanesque church. St
James’ Church was then
however reconstructed several times during the Middle Ages
and different architectural styles can today be admired.
Take for instance the western towers. One of the towers
interestingly has a Gothic peak, while the whole western
façade was erected in Romanesque style. Local Calvinists
destroyed the interior during the 16th century iconoclastic
fury and this has been reconstructed in Baroque style.
Current highlights of the church include an alter dating from
1657, several 17th century paintings and the tomb of Jan
Palfijn, who was an 18th century obstetrician. The church
can only be visited on Friday and Saturday mornings, when
there is also a flea market on the square in front of the
church. QOpen , Fri, Sat 09:30 - 12:30. Closed Mon, Tue,
Wed, Thu, Sun. Free admission. JU
St Michael’s Church B-2, Sint-Michielsplein, tel.
(+32) 923 42 869, www.cultuurinkerken.be. This
Gothic church is a bit overshadowed by its larger brothers
dedicated to Saint Nicolas and Saint Bavo, but a visit to
Saint Michael’s Church is well worth it. Construction of the
church began in 1440 and, due to a variety of political and
financial slowdowns, was finally completed 200 years later.
The church tower was once planned to be the highest in
Flanders, but, due to a lack of funds, never exceeded the
current 47 meters and wasn’t roofed until the early 19th
What to see
century. Today visitors can admire the bright interior, featuring an organ dating from 1817, a gorgeous neo-gothic
pulpit and several baroque paintings. Another element is
the exceptional amount of memorial tables (Obiit), which
demonstrates the large number of wealthy families that
once resided in Ghent. The incontestable pride of the church
however is the painting ‘Golgotha’, dating from 1630 and
executed by Anthony Van Dyck, who was a collaborator of
Rubens. QOpen 14:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. Admission:
free. JU
Interesting places
Boekentoren (Book
Tower) B-4, Rozier 9,
tel. (+ 32) 926 43
851, libser vice@
ugent.be, www.boekentor en.b e. Lo cal s
either love or hate this
gigantic concrete tower.
The colossal, modernist
masterpiece of architect Henry Van de Velde
was built in the 1930s,
when concrete was still
a symbol of modernism,
and it houses the library
of Ghent University. Over three million books are stored
in this 64-metre tall building, which is why it is called the
Book Tower. Visitors are welcome, as long as you don’t
make too much noise. After all, you are in a library. Take the
elevator up to the belvedere and you can enjoy a view over
the whole city. In 1992, Boekentoren was given the status
of protected monument and the building will be thoroughly
renovated from 2012 until 2017. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00,
Sat, Sun 09:00 - 18:00. UG
Bridge Portus Ganda D-3, Julius de Vigneplein,
www.portusganda.be. Ever fancied recreating the most
romantic scene in Titanic? You know, the one where Jack
and Rose are at the very end of the boat and Rose says:
‘I’m flying!’. Well, at this bridge of Portus Ganda you can do
just that. Your view is not the Atlantic Ocean, but the point
where the Lys and Scheldt rivers meet. From the bridge is
visible the new marina for passing boat traffic and Belgium’s
oldest indoor swimming pool, the Van Eyck, which was fully
restored in 2001. B
Hof van Ryhove B-2, Onderstraat 22. One of the things
we love about Ghent is exploring the city’s many hidden
corners. Hof van Ryhove is such a place. Looking at it from
Onderstraat you will see a step gable building like many
others, but walk through the gate with the green doors
and you will enter a delightful medieval courtyard. From
the courtyard, the 13th century palace, once inhabited by
wealthy nobles, reveals its true magnitude. Hof van Ryhove
became quite notorious during Ghent’s Calvinist period in
the 16th century, when Catholic Bishops were locked up in
the basement by its owner Francois Vander Kethulle, a key
political figure at that time. The building currently functions
as an office for the city’s administration. J
Prinsenhof A-1 & B-1, Between Prinsenhof and Lieve-
kaai. In 1500, Charles V, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire,
was born in a huge palace named Hof ten Walle. The
palace covered almost the entire present-day neighbourhood and later became known as Prinsenhof (Princes’
Court). Nowadays, only the ‘Dark Gate’ is left of the palace,
which can be found at the northern end of Prinsenhof
Street. The eponymous neighbourhood, roughly between
Lievekaai and Prinsenhof, is one of the loveliest areas
in Ghent. Try to get lost in the maze of narrow streets, sit
down under a willow tree along the Lieve River, look at
the statue of Charles V on Prinsenhofplein or walk past a
row of step gabled houses on St-Widostraat. During the
first weekend of September, Ghent’s largest flea market
is held at Prinsenhof.
Rabot A-1, Opgeëistenlaan 1, [email protected], www.
rabot.be. This structure was built in the late 15th century
and it is one of the few remainders of Ghent’s medieval
rampart. The Lieve River that flows underneath Rabot
once connected Ghent to the North Sea and it used to be
the only entrance for ships into the city. Every boat sailing
into Ghent was checked here. Rabot also functioned as a
floodgate and 15 square kilometres of land around the city
could be flooded in case of an attack. The sluice building
was strengthened with the addition of two towers after a
failed siege by Maximilian of Austria in 1488. Rabot is therefore also known as ‘Drie Torekens’, the Three Towers. The
building is not open to the public, but a visit is sometimes
included in guided city tours. JH
Small Beguinage
(Klein Begijnhof)
D-4, Lange Violettestraat 77-273,
tel. (+32) 922 41
790, olvterhoyen@
skynet.b e, w w w.
kleinbegijnhofgent.b e. Like th e
Great Beguinage at
Sin t-Amandsb erg
© Ghent City Council
an d el even o t h er
beguinages around
Flanders, the small beguinage is listed as a UNESCO world
heritage site. This serene and religious haven was built
around 1240 and was thoroughly reconstructed during the
17th century. Nonetheless, it is one of the best preserved
as well as one of the most beautiful beguinages in Flanders.
At the centre of this quiet spot stands the baroque Church
of Our Lady Ter Hoyen. You can also see two chapels and
the gorgeously red beguines’ houses around the central
lawn. According to tradition, the gate is closed from 22:00
until 06:30. QOpen 06:30 - 22:00.
Werregarenstraat
B - 2 , We r r e g a r e n straat. Ask someone
from Gh en t for t h e
Werregarenstraat and
they probably have no
idea what you’re talking about. If you ask
th em for th e graffi ti
alley, however, they’ll
guide you to this alley
b et ween Hoogpoor t
and Onderstraat. Tourists love to walk through this shady but colourful place
where street artists can let themselves go. While graffiti
is of course prohibited in Ghent, the city makes a couple of
exceptions, and the Werregarenstraat is one of them.
41
42
What to see
Museums
Design Museum
Gent B-2, Jan Brey-
delstraat 5, tel. (+32)
926 79 999, fax (+32)
922 44 522, [email protected],
www.designmuseumgent.be. The Design
Museum mainly offers
exhibitions of 20th centur y and modern-day
design, although there
are some objects from
earlier times. The design of the museum in itself makes
a visit worthwhile. Behind an 18th century frontage you’ll
find a modern and light building which more does the
various exhibits justice. There are permanent as well as
changing exhibitions. Art-deco and art nouveau lovers
can indulge themselves walking through the spacious
exhibition rooms. However, the name of this museum is
slightly misleading. This is not really a design museum
in the wider sense of the word, as the focus is mainly on
furniture and home accessories. Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth a visit. Q Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
TJU
Huis van Alijn B-2, Kraanlei 65, tel. (+32) 926 92
www.huisvanalijn.be. This delightful and intimate museum, situated in a splendid listed building, offers you a
glimpse at the lives of Belgians in the twentieth century. In
the distinct rooms, each with its own theme, you can see
just how people lived a hundred years ago. Themes such
as weddings, births, social life, school and even death are
covered in a museum that is a voyage of discovery for small
children and a trip down memory lane for older visitors.
The museum often has temporary exhibitions. Q Open
11:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission:
adults: €5, 19-26 years: €1, under 19: free. TJ
Kunsthal Sint-Pietersabdij C-5, Sint-Pietersplein
9, tel. (+32) 924 39 730, fax (+32) 924 39 734,
[email protected], www4.gent.be/sintpietersabdij/. Saint Peter’s Abbey is a former Benedictine
Abbey from 811 whose buildings are now used by Kunsthal
Saint Peter’s Abbey and the De Wereld van Kina museum.
It is located on the quiet Saint Peter’s Square on top of
the Blandijnberg (Ghent’s highest point). The buildings
represent several architectural styles: Gothic, Renaissance, Roman and Baroque are all evident in buildings
oozing history. The venerable Amandus of Ghent commissioned the building of the abbey in the eighth century.
The emperor Charlemagne used the abbey as a defensive
position against the Viking invaders in a time when it was
surrounded by open countryside. The first earls of Ghent
were buried in the abbey grounds. In 1566 the abbey was
badly damaged by the Iconoclastic Fury that ravaged the
Low Counties, so that only the refectory still remains
today. When the last monks were expelled in 1796 the
building was subsequently used as a military barracks
and up until 1948 it was used as a prison. Nowadays the
abbey is used as an art gallery with changing exhibitions
and a permanent exhibition on the history of the abbey
itself. The Abbey of Our Blessed Lady Saint Peters was
originally built in Romanesque style in the twelfth century.
The current church that now stands in Baroque style was
built in 1651. Q Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission: adults €5. J
MIAT (Museum of Industrial Archaeology
and Textiles) C-1, Min-
nemeers 9, tel. (+32) 926
94 200, fax (+32) 923
30 739, [email protected], www.
miat.gent.be. During the
second hal f of th e 18th
centur y, Belgium became
the first industrial nation in continental Europe and Ghent
was the first city in the country to embrace the new technologies. The city rapidly developed as a major centre for
textile production, which brought wealth to town, but also
led to a vast transformation of society. The Museum of
Industrial Archaeology and Textiles aims to preserve Ghent’s industrial heritage and tells the story of this significant
period in the history of Belgium. The museum is housed in a
former cotton mill and it has three outstanding exhibitions,
each on a different floor in the building. Visitors can learn
everything about the cotton industry on the third floor.
The collection ‘Wereld Wijd Werken’ interactively shows
the hardship of ordinary workers and explains the societal
changes since the 18th century. The top floor chronologically displays the history of industrialisation and houses
the museum’s prime showpiece: the Spinning Jenny textile
machine. Detailed information is provided on each floor in
Dutch, English, French and German. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon. Admission: €5 for adults, €3.75 for visitors
older than 55, €1 for visitors aged 19 - 25, free for children
up to 18. TJUK
Museum Arnold Vander Haeghen B-3, Veldstraat
82, tel. (+32) 926 98 460, fax (+32) 926 98 479,
[email protected], www.visitgent.be. This building used to be the residence of Joost Clemmen, a wealthy
18th century cotton magnate, and this small museum offers
a glimpse at the lifestyle of the richest of inhabitants in
industrial-era Ghent. The museum consists of two rooms,
while the rest of the building currently functions as an office
for the cultural department of the city. One of the two rooms
shows a unique Chinese drawing room with hand painted silk
wallpaper. According to the curator it’s the only one of its kind
in the world and certainly, it reveals that cotton magnates
had lots of money to spend. The other room is completely
dedicated to Belgium’s only Nobel laureate in literature:
Maurice Maeterlinck. This room features a reconstruction of
his work chamber, the place where Maeterlinck once wrote
his masterpiece L’Oiseau Bleu (The Blue Bird). The museum
can only be visited as part of a guided tour and it is advised
to book tickets in advance. Tours start at 14.30 on Fridays
and Saturdays and it includes a visit to the 18th century Hotel
d’Hane-Steenhuyse. QOpen Fri, Sat 14:30 - 16:00. Closed
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. Adults €5, children until 18 years
free admission. J
Museum dr. Guislain
Jozef Guislainstraat 43,
tel. (+32) 921 63 595, fax
(+32) 921 63 535, info@
museumdrguislain.b e,
www.museumdrguislain.
be. The most extraordinary
museum in Ghent must be
without a doubt the Dr. Guis© Ghent City Council lain Museum. In this imposing
building, you’ll find everything
concerning the history of psychiatry and mental health care
- or rather, the lack of knowledge and scientific proof and
arguments in this area, since those who take a good look at
What to see
the information signs will probably feel no more than mere
shame for all those poor patients who’ve been guinea pigs
in the most horrible, painful and degrading experiments in
the name of science. The fascinating exhibition takes you
on a global trip through the history of psychiatric care. The
buildings themselves are worth a visit. On sunny days, you
can take a break from all the commotion and lay yourself
down on the large pretty fields of grass in the courtyard
here. Q Open 09:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 13:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon. Admission:adults €6, under 26 years €1.
Tram 1 starts at the P+R stop at Flanders Expo, goes to
Gent Sint-Pietersstation, continues through Korenmarkt
and then goes on to Evergem. Make sure you get off at the
Guislainstraat stop. LB
Museum of Fine Arts (Museum voor Schone
Kunsten) B-6, Fernand Scribedreef 1, tel. (+32) 924
www.mskgent.be. Seeing the Belgian masters in their
country of origin; that’s what makes this Museum of Fine
Arts so special. The masterpieces are done full justice in
this wonderful building from 1904, which was completely
renovated in 2007. The natural light comes through the
windows in exactly the right way so you can keep admiring
the paintings by Jheronimus Bosch, Pieter Brueghel de
Jonge and Frans Hals in all their splendour time and again.
Besides art works from the Middle Ages to the first half of
the 20th century, there are special exhibitions every year:
on the 2nd of March there’s the opening of the Belgian
Modernism exhibition.The museum is quite small - don’t
expect a Flemish Louvre - but it should not be skipped
during your visit to Ghent. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed
Mon. Admission: €5. TAL
Museum of the History of Medicine B-3, Onderber-
gen 1, tel. (+32) 922 30 832, fax (+32) 926 48 396,
[email protected], w w w.ugent.be.
Formerly a Dominican monastery, the building just south of
St Michael’s church now belongs to Ghent University. The
university decided to use part of this building for storing
its collection of ancient surgical instruments and some
enthusiastic doctors and emeriti turned it into the Museum
of the History of Medicine in 1991. The collection includes
Roman medical instruments as old as the 1st century A.D.,
surgical tools from the 18th and 19th century and a copy of
Jan Palfijn’s renowned obstetric forceps. The museum can
only be visited after making an appointment for a one and
a half hour guided tour by a professor, which discouragingly
has to be be arranged three weeks in advance. QOpen
09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J
Museum of the History of Sciences Krijgslaan
281, tel. (+32) 926 44 930, fax (+32) 926 44 973,
[email protected], www.sciencemuseum.
ugent.be. This small museum at the university campus
displays the history of sciences by all types of old scientific
instruments. Visitors can see a large collection of microscopes, telescopes, topographic instruments, all kinds of
laboratory glassware and a massive analogue computer.
Attached to the exhibition room is a small library with old
scientific works and books about the history of science.
Currently, detailed information about the museum pieces
is only provided in Dutch, but we were told that descriptions in English will come soon. The museum is located
in building S-30 on university campus ‘De Sterre’. You can
get here by taking tram 1 to ‘Maaltebruggestraat’, from
where a short walk will get you to the museum. QOpen
10:00 - 12:00 & 14:00-17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Adults
€2.50, students €1.50, visitors under 18 or over 65: free
admission. T
Museum
Dr. Guislain
Gideon Kiefer
illustrates
the human as a
inexhaustible
scienceproject.
22 June 2013 — 6 October 2013
Man in the
contemperary
art collection of
the Fondation
Francès.
Jozef Guislainstraat 43, B-9000 Gent
S.M.A.K. Municipal
Museum of Contemporary Art B-6, Cita-
delpark, tel. (+32) 924
07 601, [email protected],
www.smak.be. The current Municipal Museum of
Contemporary Art (Flemish Acronym S.M.A.K.)
© Ghent City Council was established in 1999
and goes back to 1957,
when Karel Geirlandt founded the ‘Association for the Museum
of Contemporary Art’, driven by his great ambition to realise
an autonomous museum for contemporary expressions in
the art world. The exhibition programme is varied. QOpen
10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission: adults: €6, 19-26 years:
€1,under 19 years: free. PTAULGK
STAM - City Museum Ghent A-5, Godshuizenlaan 2,
tel. (+32) 926 71 400, fax (+32) 926 71 498, stam@
gent.be, www.stamgent.be. The town’s most modern
museum will take you on a journey through eight centuries of
Ghent history. In an entertaining and lighthearted manner you
will encounter Ghent’s rich history in three different groups of
buildings, which are all very attractive. For centuries the former
abbey, which houses the STAM, was hidden behind high walls.
In the spot where the sick were looked after for 750 years,
the cultural soul is now anointed. The old convent buildings,
with their roots in the Middle Ages, have been turned into this
modern museum in an artistically attractive way. If this is your
first visit to the city, you can get truck loads of relevant information here, which will liven up your visit even more. A gigantic
aerial photograph of the city, which is dozens of metres in size
and projected onto a mirror floor, is in itself reason enough to
visit STAM. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
43
44
What to see
they can take a refreshing dive in the pond or have fun on the
water slide. Access to Blaarmeersen is free, although from
May to August car-drivers pay an entrance fee of €2.50. T
Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve Driepik-
kelstraat. Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen is a green area just three
kilometers from the Castle of the Counts. Here you’ll find
210 hectares of wet grassland full of ditches and streams.
Birdwatchers love this place as it is one of the most birdrich nature reserves in Flanders. In the area, no cyclists are
allowed but there are three marked trails of two or five and
a half kilometres. One of them takes you along the route of
the old railway which was used for the Ghent World Fair of
1913 when visitors could admire this showpiece section of
the Belgian railways. Every first Saturday of the month, there
is a free guided tour at 14:30. TU
Former Dominican friary Het Pand, photo by Reine Ortiz
The World of KINA C-5, Sint-Pietersplein 14, tel. (+32)
www.dewereldvankina.be. This museum has been split
into two parts at different locations: The House and The Garden. The Garden is a beautiful spot with borders full of special
plants and a room with information about the world of plants.
You should also take a look at the tarantulas. The House is a
colourful museum located in wonderful premises and seems
very modern at first glance. The way information is provided is
somewhat dated, however, and you would expect a museum,
particularly one aimed at kids, to offer a bit more interactivity.
That doesn’t mean that the large rooms with stuffed animals,
the dinosaur skeletons and the Neanderthals have lost any
of their appeal since the museum first opened its doors in
1924, however. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 14:00 - 17:30.
Closed Sat. Admission: adults €2,50, between 12-25 years:
€1,25, children free till 12 years. TJAL
Parks & Gardens
Appelbrugparkje B-2, Jan Breydelstraat. Those who
are looking for a resting point in the middle of the bustling
historic centre can just take a fifteen minute break at the
little Appelbrug park. Walk all the way to the water and enjoy
the view: on your left the Old Fish Market and your right the
Great Butchers’ Hall. J
Baudelopark Baudelostraat. Baudelopark was the first
public park in the city. In the 16th century, this was the garden
of the Baudelo Abbey and during the French occupation it
became a botanical garden (which has now moved to the
edge of the Citadelpark). At the beginning of the last century,
a street (the Bibliotheekstraat) was constructed in the
middle of the park but at the request of the local residents
the street has been transformed into a bike and pedestrian
path that unites the park once more. Baudelopark includes
a playground and a small basketball court, and attracts a
young and more alternative public. During the Gentse Feesten, this park is a Mecca for dance lovers with workshops in
different styles. TJ
Blaarmeersen Sport and Recreation Park Zuiderlaan 5-10, www.blaarmeersen.be. Blaarmeersen is 87
hectares of green space. This vast domain - with a gigantic
lake - offers numerous recreational activities. It includes an
athletics track, an adventure trail, climbing rocks and facilities
for minigolf, tennis and volleyball. There are three cafeterias
and a camping site with hiker’s huts. At Blaarmeersen, lots of
youngsters enjoy the sunny days at the beach area, because
Citadelpark Citadelpark. With its two museums (S.M.A.K
and Museum of Fine Arts), a botanical garden, a cast-iron
bandstand, an animal shelter and various artworks, Citadelpark is undoubtedly the most versatile park in Ghent. The
park was named after the large-scale citadel that was built
on the site following the fall of Napoleon. In the park, you
can still see caves with remnants of primitive bunkers. As
in all other parks in Ghent, mainly students - with or without
textbooks - love lying in the grass. Plans are currently being
made to renovate the entire park. TJ
Garden of St Peter’s Abbey C-5, Sint-Pietersplein 9,
tel. (+32) 924 39 730, [email protected], www.
gent.be/sintpietersabdij. Behind St Peter’s abbey lies a
lovely green garden with a grass field that, particularly on
sunny days, is a tempting place to just lie down for a while.
That is exactly what students from the neighbourhood
and all sorts of other people do when the sun shines. The
garden of the abbey is nicely situated between the former
monastery buildings and the Scheldt River. In addition to the
lawn, the garden features a vineyard, a small orchard and a
herb garden. You could also spot the ruins of the monastery’s
infirmary, which adds to the charm of this relaxing spot. Unlike
the abbey buildings, the garden is freely accessible. QOpen
10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
Keizerpark Brusselsesteenweg. Keizerpark was redeveloped in 2009 and ever since has been an attractive place,
easily accessible thanks to the two bridges. On sunny days
local residents and students gather here, and children are
more than welcome. The little ones can enjoy themselves in
the playground while for older kids there is a skate park and
a basketball court. Via the wooden pontoon, anglers have
access to the banks of the Scheldt and also those who like
to barbecue can live it up here. T
Sightseeing Tours
Ghent-Authentic C-3, Keizer Karelstraat 97/201,
tel. (+32) 498 109 961, [email protected],
www.ghent-authentic.com. Ghent’s cobblestone
streets can get to even the most hardy of travelers.
One of the best ways to avoid unnecessary walking is
therefore to join these local experts. Sightseeing tours in
English, French, Dutch and German. Very knowledgeable
guides take you beyond the classic sights, and lace their
tours with wonderful anecdotes and stories. There are a
range of tours to choose from, including Mystic Middle
Ages, Ghent by Night and UNESCO Ghent to name
just three. Ghent-Authentic can also arrange private,
customized tours. J
Shopping
Antiques
Antiek Depot C-2, Baudelostraat 15, tel. (+32) 477 60
61 99, [email protected], www.antiek-depot.com.
Two floors full of furniture, paintings and all kinds of other old
stuff. Not everything is antique, some things are just old.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Tue. J
Burkelbloem D-2, Dampoortstraat 92, tel. (+32) 922
34 737. If you happen to get off at Gent-Dampoortstation
(the closest station to the city) , and you take the road
to the city centre, you will walk by this nice shop filled
with antiques and vintage goodies. Want to jump back in
time? Here you’ll find the teapot your grandmother used
in the 50’s, haircombs from the Interbellum, and all kinds
of curiosities of which you never thought you’d encounter
them again. Q Open 14:00 - 20:00. J
Design 7 C-2, Nieuwpoort 7, tel. (+32) 485 41 01 49,
[email protected], www.design7.be. Frederic
Rozier, the brains behind vintage design lovers’ favourite
Design Market, is truly passionate about design; this
shows as soon as you enter Design7. The gallery carries
a unique mix of 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s design furniture,
ranging from cool tables and unique chairs to striking lighting fixtures and funky cabinets. Originality and affordability
are key: to this end, all items can be rented as well. QOpen
, Thu 14:00 - 18:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 12:00,14:00-18:00,
Sun 11:00 - 13:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. JA
Het Archief C-2, Steendam 110, tel. (+32) 922 35
200, w w w.het-archief.be. There are many reasons
why they opened antique and vintage shop Het Archief.
To us the most important is because good design lasts
forever and because old things have a soul. Het Archief
specializes in old school posters and breathes a homely
feeling. Q Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon. JA
Bookshops & Media
Atlas & Zanzibar A-5, Kortrijksesteenweg 19, tel.
(+32) 922 08 799, www.atlaszanzibar.be. This huge
travel shop specialises in maps, atlases, globes and, of
course, loads and loads of guides in Dutch and English.
Travel lovers could spend days in this temple. Q Open
10:00 - 13:00 & 14:00-18:00. Closed Tue, Sun. Also
at: Kortrijksesteenweg 1036, (+32) 937 14 101, closed
Tue. TA
Audivox C-4, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 15, tel. (+32)
Paard Van Troje Bookshop B-3, Kouter 113-114, tel.
(+32) 933 00 883, [email protected], www.paardvantroje.be. You would really have to come up with a good
excuse not to be tempted to pop in Paard van Troje (Trojan
horse), a cosy bookshop come bar. Browsing through the
stacked shelves, you’ll notice how the owners have tried to
steer away from what’s on offer in any other chain bookstore.
The selection, which contains of a good number of titles in
English, is updated regularly, and you can always expect a few
surprises. Bring your kids, as the children’s corner boasts a
number of great reads, you could easily get lost in yourself.
Music lovers will be equally charmed by an interesting choice
of alternative and indie albums. Take your time to make up
your mind about what to buy; the owners make a point of
letting costumers feel free to browse as long as they like.
To be honest, once you’ve decided on which book(s) to take
home, you probably won’t want to leave. Grab a table, order
the soup of the day (we were pleasantly surprised by the butternut squash, parsley, Absolut Black vodka (!) and Tierenteyn
mustard soup, served with organic sweet pepper bread) or a
tasty baguette, and dive into the latest Murakami, McEwan,
or some obscure author you have yet to discover. When
the sun’s out, move to the terrace with a pint of refreshing
Belgian beer, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Kouter
square. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Sun
09:00 - 13:00. TJAB
Walry B-6, Zwijnaardsesteenweg 6, tel. (+32) 922 29
167, [email protected], www.walry.be. Everyone in
Ghent is familiar with book and magazine shop Walry. Recently,
the shop has been refurbished, and now has room for an even
larger collection of books, with a special focus on (Dutch, Flemish, Italian and Spanish) literature, history, philosophy, art and
linguistics. The little ones won’t be disappointed by what Walry
has in store for them either. While browsing through stacks
of great reads, you almost feel as if you’re in the courtyard
garden adjacent to the store. But Walry is much more than a
bookshop; owner Paul Luyten regularly hosts book launches
and signings. And if there’s one place in Ghent where you
can have a relaxed, hassle free lunch, it’s Walry’s lunch
café. This is where you go to enjoy grandmother’s kitchen
at a reasonable price. We tasted the yummy meat balls with
pommes dauphinoises and Walry’s take on the iconic Ghent
stew, while having a peak at the Marquez we just bought. You
can also have breakfast at the café, or dig into a pancake in
the afternoon. The no-nonsense cuisine is reflected in the
décor, which is equally straightforward, yet pleasant. The real
appeal of the place, however, is the hosts, who always offer
a warm welcome. QOpen 09:00 - 18:30, Sat 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Sun. TA
922 42 488, [email protected], www.audivox.net. This
small bookstore primarily sells English language teaching
material for middle school students. You can pick up some
classic English novels here, but there is not much on offer
besides the Penguin Classics. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. Closed
Sat, Sun. J
Limerick A-6, Koningin Elisabethlaan 142, tel. (+32)
922 21 757. Limerick is one of just a few independent
bookshops left in Ghent. This charming place looks like a
genuine bookshop is supposed to: tall wooden bookcases
crammed with books in all shapes and sizes, from children’s
fairy tales to world literature classics. If you happen to discover a hidden treasure at the very top, there’s even a little
ladder to help you reach it. Can’t wait to dive into your novel
of choice? In the back of the shop, you can take a seat and
have a read, while enjoying a cup of freshly brewed tea and
a bit of Mozart in the background. QOpen 10:00 - 18:30.
Closed Mon, Sun. TA
Papaver in Jan Breydelstraat, photo by Reine Ortiz
45
46
Shopping
Cheese
Het Hinkelspel D-3, Lousbergskaai 33, tel. (+32) 922
42 096, [email protected], www.hethinkelspel.
be. This place, where they until recently produced their own
cheese (they moved the cheese factory out off Ghent) offers
a fine selection of the best cheeses, organic wines, bread
and icecream. QOpen 10:00 - 13:00, 14:00-18:00. Closed
Sun. TJA
Mekka Koestraat 9, tel. (+32) 922 58 366. This shop
is situated near Kouter-square, in a part of Ghent that resembles Paris. The cheese here is artisanal, and the owners
go to Paris (Rungis) once a week to buy their cheese on the
market there. Their specialities are goat cheese and farmers’
cheese. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
Delicacies
Aula B-3, Voldersstraat 24, tel. (+32) 922 50 514, info@
slagerij-aula.com, www.slagerij-aula.com. Named after
the Aula, the grand Ghent University auditorium across the
street, the Aula butcher’s and delicatessen, Ghent’s famous
food shop, is a feast for eyes and tastebuds alike. If you don’t
fancy preparing something at home, you can have a quick bite
to eat among the colourful produce, at the Aula Toog. Simply
grab a white leather stool at the bar, which surrounds the open
kitchen, and take your pick. Good luck deciding between all
the sandwiches, soups, salads, pastas and meat dishes
on offer. A team of chefs prepares everything on the spot.
We were pleasantly surprised by the rich chicken salad, and
immediately bought the ingredients right then and there to
try and emulate the chefs’ creation. QOpen 09:00 - 18:30.
Closed Sun. ZJA
Belartisan B-3, Ajuinlei 14, tel. (+32) 922 57 330,
[email protected], www.belartisan.com. On the
lookout for original and delicious Belgian products, to delight
friends at home with? You will be amazed to discover the
great variety of tasty treats Belartisan has in store. Apart
from the obvious assortment of chocolates and beers,
we were especially surprised by Belgian Owl, a single malt
whisky, made in Belgium. Furthermore, the shop offers a wide
variety of (sparkling) wines, Ghent’s very own signature liqueur
Roomer and more jams than you can think of. If you’re lucky,
you can attend a tasting session, which the friendly owners
have regularly. We challenge anyone to have a sip of real Ghent
‘jenever’, and turn down a second one. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00,
Sun 10:30 - 13:30. Closed Tue, Wed. TJA
Bernard Junior A-6, Koningin Elisabethlaan 43, tel.
(+32) 922 24 820. If you’re on the hunt for an excellent
bottle of wine, Bernard’s the place to go. Loved by wine lovers
all over Ghent because of the wide selection of wines and spirits - and by most Ghent children because of the life-size white
horse welcoming you at the entrance - Bernard’s wine shop
is a must-see, if only for the grand town house it’s located
in. Moreover, Bernard caters to any budget: after a day out
in Ghent, we were left with just five euros to spend, but the
affable owner suggested what turned out to be a wonderful
bottle of red to accompany our pasta dish - we even left with
some change! QOpen 08:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun. A
Boxy B-3, Hoornstraat 13, tel. (+32) 923 34 535, info@
boxyfinefoods.be, www.boxyfinefoods.be. A delicatessen which uses ‘Variety is the spice of life. That gives it all
its flavour’ as its tagline promises to offer a great diversity
of delicious dishes. Boxy Fine Foods delivers just that, and
more. In a striking white 19th century townhouse near the
river, brothers Stefan and Kristof Boxy have managed to build
a little gourmet’s paradise. From simple soups and salads to
Ghent specialties, everything is fresh, of the highest quality
and presented with great attention to detail. Prepare to be
tempted by fragrant spices, fine wines, and even kitchen
accessories. At Boxy Fine Foods you do spend a little more,
but this luxurious experience will get any foodie going. QOpen
10:30 - 19:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JAS
Mobile Liquor Store C-2, Ham 31, tel. (+32) 922 534
13, [email protected], www.mobileliquorstore.be. In need of a nice bottle of wine, or you want to get
that exclusive bottle of Zacapa rum from Guatemala? In this
shop you’ll find a nice selection of wines, sparkling wines
and liquors. The street where it’s located at, has nothing
in particular to offer, but their selection of drinks and the
friendly service is worth the detour. QOpen Mon 11:00 19:00, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 13:00 - 19:00.
Closed Sun. JA
Tierenteyn-Verlent B-2, Groentenmarkt 3, tel. (+32)
tierenteyn-verlent.be. Mustard speciality shop Tierenteyn
is situated in a listed building and the family’s love for tradition has left everything in this shop the way it used to be.
The famous mustard is prepared behind closed doors in the
cellar according to traditional methods dating back to 1790.
QOpen 08:30 - 18:00. Closed Sun.
Trattoria della mamma Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 36, tel.
trattoriadellamamma.be. Close to Ghent’s favourite café,
Vooruit, you will find the Italian delicatessen Trattoria della
Mamma. If you feel like preparing an Italian feast at home, you
can select your favourites from an ever-changing assortment of
pastas, desserts, salads, cheeses, wines, sauces, meats and
sausages and other antipasti. For a quick lunch on the go, there
are plenty of delicious sandwiches (try the vegetarian panini!) to
choose from. Those with a little more time to spend can have
lunch on the spot. The generous pasta dishes are all reasonably
priced and served with freshly baked Italian bread. The fettucini
with salsiccia (Italian sausage) and gorgonzola cheese and
the rich tiramisu are worth a mention. A no nonsense, homely
place to escape the hustle and bustle of the shopping streets,
especially with a lovely glass of red. QOpen 10:00 - 18:30,
Mon 11:30 - 18:30. Closed Sun. TJAKS
Fashion
Café Costume C-3, Brabantdam 135, tel. (+32) 922 56
323, [email protected]. If you just cannot find the
perfect fitted jacket in retail stores, at Café Costume you can
simply make it yourself: at this stylish store men are encouraged to design their ideal tailor made suit from scratch. From
the fit and the fabric, to the buttons and pockets - everything
is tailored ‘à la carte’, while you sit banck and sip on some
champagne. The experienced staff will help you along, aiming
to make any man look his best. A word of warning: Looking that
good does come at a price! For film buffs out there: the shop
features in Flemish hit movie ‘The Broken Circle Breakdown’
as actrice’s Veerle Baetens’ tattoo shop! QOpen Tue, Wed
09:30 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 19:00, Fri 11:00 - 19:00, Sat
10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. A
Cream B-2, Hoogpoort 9, tel. (+32) 922 40 085, info@
cream.be, www.cream.be. Cream caters mainly to younger
fashion addicts out there: the items on offer are usually different, hip, and up-to-date. In one of the largest multi-brand
boutiques in Ghent, both boys and girls can have their pick of
fashionable brands such as Sessun, Eleven Paris, Carhartt,
Wesc, Ben Sherman, Only, Nudie Jeans, Alprausch, Cheap
Shopping
Monday, and Junk de Luxe, while listening to the in-store DJ’s
beats. There’s also a great selection of accessories on offer
(frisbees, skateboards, headphones), as well as some trendy
sneakers. If you want more, check out Cream’s ‘older brother’
Limits, for even more skate wear. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Sun. JA6
Cube B-3, Onderbergen 34, tel. (+32) 922 57 380,
cube-menswear.be. Men in need for a tailored suit no longer
need to travel to Milan, London or Paris. Fashionable guys with
(a little) cash to spend from as far as Amsterdam pay Cube,
situated across from the historic Het Pand, a visit. The store
sells high end brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchi,
Dsquared², and Lanvin. The building, in which the shop
takes up the ground floor, is impressive in itself. Inside, the
recently finished black and white interior makes just browsing
an experience. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Mon 14:00 - 19:00.
Closed Sun. PJA
Elle et Gand C-2, Jan Palfijnstraat 36, tel. (+32) 923
42 333, www.elleetgand.be. Elle et Gand is a cute little
shop in a beautiful corner building tucked away from the
bustle. The collection of shoes and clothes from Scandinavion
brands and young Belgian designers, is girly. And so are the
pillows, jewellery and little artworks they sell here. QOpen
11:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J6L
Eva Bos C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 66, tel. (+32) 495 49
61 64, [email protected], www.evabos.be. Two things
on the outside of this store give away what you shop for at
Eva Bos: gold and cocktail glasses. When you need a party
dress and matching accessories, get here. QOpen Tue, Wed
10:30 - 18:00, Thu, Fri 14:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Sun. JA6U
Humør B-3, Bennesteeg 19/21. Humør is an ecological
concept store, linked to the Rewind shop. On offer are top
Scandinavian fashion and interior design, all produced with
Mother Nature in mind. Unique to the store are the homemade
lighting fixtures. Humør also serves as a place for upcoming designers to showcase their products in a specially
designated ‘shop in shop’. For wine lovers out there: once a
month, on Sundays, you can attend winetastings in the store’s
outdoor bar. QOpen 10:30 - 18:30. Closed Tue. First Sunday
of the month: open from 11:00 - 18:00 JA
Kollektie Eva-Stoffen Janssens B-2, Korenlei 5,
tel. (+32) 923 39 445, [email protected], www.
kollektie-eva.be. This is how it works: Kollektie Eva is
a small selection of prototype dresses from designer Eva
Janssen. You pick one, Eva measures your size, and together
you select the most suitable fabrics from the shop and in two
weeks you will have a highly exclusive dress. QOpen 10:00 18:00, Mon by appointment. Closed Sun. JA
La Fille d’O A-2, Burgstraat 21, tel. (+32) 933 48 010,
lafilledo.com. Murielle Scherre has a thing with women,
she not only makes women friendly porn but also (and
maybe more importantly) women friendly underwear. La Fille
d’O tries to redefine the very alphabet of lingerie-making.
As she spells it out herself :La Fille d’O = Libertine. Animal. Footloose. Indulgent. Legendary. Long-term. Electric.
Determined. Oddly overwhelming. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Sun.
Les Filles et Les Chiens C-3, Zuidstationstraat 9,
[email protected], www.lesfillesetleschiens.
be. This ‚fashion concept store’ is for both ladies&gentlemen
(not only for girls and dogs, as the shop’s name might mislead
you), the nice sellers offer you a cup of tea, while you’re sniffing
around the clothes, jewelry, T-shirts, shoes and nice gadgets.
The interior of the shop itself is already worth the visit : this
building used to be an old hotel, and is decorated with 18th C
frescoes and paintings. The shop is open on a Sunday, which
is great for the shopaddicts among us. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00,
Sun 14:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue. JA
Maaike Kleedt A-2, Zuivelbrugstraat 8, tel. (+32) 933
55 840. Maaike, Maaike kleedt’s owner, has long been a fan
of Scandinavian fashion. Her unique (and crooked!) corner
store, near Ghent’s charming Patershol, sells pure, feminine
clothes by mainly Swedish and Danish designers. Luxurious
items, but with an ecological twist: that is what Maaike is
going for. Swedisch brand Dagmar and Danish brand Costum
made are but a few examples of this ‘eco luxury’ trend. If
you’re into beauty products, Maaike kleedt also carries the
Odd Molly beauty collection - if it’s good enough for Helena
Christensen, it’s good enough for us! FYI: The shop’s interior
was designed by Jan Hoet Jr., son of Jan ‘Ghent’s king of
contemporary art’ Hoet. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon 14:00
- 18:00. Closed Sun.
Mieke C-2, Baudelostraat 23, tel. (+32) 933 07 144,
[email protected], www.mieke.tv. Mieke claims to cater for
‘every woman’. This pretty shop, owned by the eponymous
trendwatcher Mieke De Winter, seems to be well on its way
to make that statement come true. De Winter is constantly
browsing the web looking for creative designers from all over
the world. Hence, the ever changing collection. Keep an eye
out for truly original clothing brands such as Niche, Eucalyptus
and Friday On My Mind. The accessories (necklaces, buttons,
hair pins) make for wonderful presents. QOpen 11:00 18:00, Sun 12:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue. JA
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Shopping
Mis-en-plis B-2, Hoogpoort 31, tel. (+32) 486 80 45
29, [email protected], www.mis-en-plis.be. All primary
colors are represented at Mis-en-Plis. If not in the form of a
cool retro dress or skirt, then in one of the leather bags. 100
per cent Belgian, 100 per cent cool. QOpen 12:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JA
Modesalon Seraphine B-2, Hoogpoort 30, tel. (+32)
923 40 237, [email protected], www.modesalonseraphine.be. At Seraphine you don’t just browse
the racks, you’re getting dressed by one of the stylists. And
they’re willing to devote hours to you. Or days if you need
a complete make-over... QOpen 11:00 - 18:15, Fri 11:00 20:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:30. Closed Mon, Sun. JA
Rewind C-4, St-Pietersnieuwstraat 13 & 44, tel. (+32)
932 48 404, [email protected], www.rewindstore.
be. Lovers of exclusive and high quality designer labels
should pay Rewind a visit. Two Rewind stores across the
road from each other cater to either men or women. The
focus lies mainly on Scandinavian brands. The collections on
offer are quite different, at times playful and always unique.
Don’t forget to check out the accessories: the sunglasses,
rings and necklaces make for great presents, for you or your
loved ones. And: your (undoubtedly many) purchases won’t
break the bank either. QOpen 11:00 - 18:30, Mon 14:00 18:30. Closed Sun.
Suite B-2, Hoogpoort 59, tel. (+32) 923 38 391, suite@
pandora.be, www.suite-gent.be. Suite is a neat fashion
store for elegant ladies who can afford themselves the pieces
of Flemish designers and brands like Acne. QOpen 10:30 18:00. Closed Sun. PJA6U
Zoot B-2, Serpentstraat 8, tel. (+32) 923 37 075, zoot-
[email protected], www.zootcostumiers.be. Cute, arty
and colourful, that’s what the dresses, shoes and jewellery at
Zoot are. Situated in a lovely, small street, but it will guarantee
you heaps of shopping fun. Also check out the Zoot shoestore at
Hoogpoort. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JAU
For children
Bach C-4, Lammerstraat 7, tel. (+32) 922 57 813. In this
store parents can find everything for their kids, from giant rabbits
to postcards. QOpen 10:30 - 18:30. Closed Sun. TJA
Krat C-3, Keizer Karelstraat 144-150, tel. (+32) 922 36
188, www.krat.be. Since 1997 this shop has been a favourite
of local children. The owner is the driving force behind this colourful
children’s paradise, where all goods are made from natural materials. QOpen 10:30 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJL
Petit Bazaars B-2, Oudburg 13, tel. (+32) 922 33 699,
www.petitbazaar.be. Online, Petit Bazaar already had a
crowd of fans. Especially for them Ghent opened a boutique
where you can find a selection of goods for babies and children
from five different web shops every month. The graphically
awesome fabrics of Koekepeertje and the nostalgic items
of Whoost can also be found here. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JA6
Gifts & Souvenirs
Achter de Maan B-3, Sint-Niklaasstraat 1, tel. (+32)
923 32 891, fax (+32) 934 93 402, www.achterdemaan.
com. Vintage in all its glory can be found at this centrally
located shop. Two stores full of bags, jewellery and other
colourful items. Also modern kitchen stuff. QOpen 10:00 18:00. Closed Sun. A
Au Bon Marché B-3, Hoornstraat 4, tel. (+32) 926
90 260, www.aubonmarchegent.be. Where to look first
in this wood-dominated shop full of things you don’t really
need? Just go with the flow of the Cuban music, breathe in
the smell of leather and chat along with one of the shop’s
relaxed girls. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 18:30.
Closed Sun. JA
Rouge et noir Hoogpoort 19, tel. (+32) 477 32 04
71, www.rougenoir.be. In this little shop, you’ll find small
decorative objects in red and black, and if you look hard
enough, also some small objects in white, all wrapped up in
nice paper if you ask the friendly owner to do so. Ideal as a
gift, or why not as a little treat for yourself? QOpen 11:00 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JA
The Fallen Angels B-2, Jan Breydelstraat 29-31, tel.
the-fallen-angels.com. If you walk in this small street, this
shop is one not to be missed! If you don’t find a nice gift for
your mother-in-law or your brother here, then you won’t find
it anywhere else... There are 2 shops, next to one another,
one is more specialised in antique toys, posters and more
to your vintage likings, the other one has modern versions
of vintage goodies. Their own collection of postcards is a big
must. Flying outside with our bags filled to the brim, we feel a
bit like leaving paradise. QOpen 11:00 - 12:00, 13:00-17:45.
Closed Sun. The shop specialised in antiques is closed on
Mondays, Tuesdays & Sundays, and only open between
13:30 -18:00 JA
Home & Garden
A puur A B-3, Onderbergen 56, tel. (+32) 922 30 241,
apuura.com. This shop offers a fine selection of bags,
shoes, interior design and they recently added a new line of
clothes : Katrien Buyle, owner of the shop, designs clothes
herself, and they also sell Aiayu (a Bolivian brand), Momoni
(Italian), Humanoid (Netherlands). QOpen 10:00 - 12:30,
13:30-18:00. Closed Sun. JA
Bijhuis C-3, Sint-Baafsplein 66, tel. (+32) 922 37 084, info@
bijhuis.be, www.bijhuis.be. The wide collection of designer
household/kitchen stuff and accessories they sell at Bijhuis is nice
but not unique for a shop of this kind. But not every gift shop can
say that it’s situated in a 13th Century cellar with columns though.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JA6
Huiszwaluw B-2, Hoogpoort 3B, tel. (+32) 923 32
737, [email protected], www.huiszwaluw.com.
Huiszwaluw is the kind of shop where you buy more than
you were planning to. It’s not your fault, the slick design and
colourful prints of their interior products, wallpapers and baby
goods are simply irresistible. Huiszwaluw is specialised in
Scandinavian brands Rice, Ferm, Housedoctor as well as
some local handbag&jewelry&paperware designers. It’s not
about not being able to spot the right present here, it’s all
about making the hard decision which present would score
the best. QOpen 10:30 - 18:00. Closed Sun. TJA
Kelim Gent Kraanlei 3, tel. (+32) 922 43 834, info@
kelimgent.be, www.kelimgent.be. Herman Vermeulen,
who started this shop, was the first person who introduced
the Kelim carpets in Ghent, he made his job out of this hobby,
and soon he was known as an expert not only in Kelims from
Turkey, Iran and the Caucasus, but also in raffia textile from
Congo. Herman Vermeulen passed away sadly enough in
2003, but his friendly wife Nadine Engels runs the shop now,
with a lot of enthusiasm and knowledge. QOpen Fri, Sat, Sun
14:00 - 18:00. JA
Shopping
Jewellery & Watches
Bouverne Bijouterie C-3, Kortedagsteeg 37-39,
tel. (+32) 922 39 572, fax (+32) 922 40 887, www.
bouverne.be. Since 1976 Bouverne Bijouterie has been
selling, producing and repairing jewellery and watches. A
wide selection of top watch brands and fine jewellery can be
found in this stylish shop. Famous brands of the Swiss watch
industry as well as exclusive names of the Italian, Swiss and
French jewellery are present. When you visit you can expect
perfect service. Bouverne is also the only official Rolex
dealer for Ghent and around. The after-sales service on site is
recognized by themain brands. Highly recommended. QOpen
09:00 - 18:30, Mon 14:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JAL
Elisa Lee - Glasjuweel B-2, Hoogpoort 33, tel. (+32)
932 90 878, [email protected], www.elisa-lee.be.
Funny, colourful and fairylike. Wandering around Elisa Lee’s
jewellery shop is like strolling through a fantasy forest. Besides being a jewellery designer and goldsmith, Elisa is also
a passionate glass blower. Check her website too. QOpen
11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JA
M.A.R.T.H.A B-3, Onderbergen 19, tel. (+32) 933
06 640, [email protected]. When strolling
through up-and-coming Mecca for luxury goods Onderbergen,
it is hard to simply walk past M.A.R.T.H.A’s colourful window display. The lovely little shop sells a diverse collection of trendy yet
affordable necklaces, earrings, rings, scarves, hats, and bags,
in a range of striking colours. Just go in with your favourite colour
in mind and try to narrow down your choices. Still not sure? The
friendly owner offers style and colour advice as well. QOpen
10:00 - 12:30, 13:30-18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J
Phulkari B-2, Jan Breydelstraat 40, tel. (+32) 922 51
895, [email protected], www.phulkari.be. If you can’t
afford to take the plane to India, but you just love Indian
jewerly, this nice shop is the place to be! They don’t only
sell jewelry, but also clothes, scarves and tissues, if you’re
handy enough to sew your own clothes. QOpen 11:00 18:00. Closed Mon.
Zahia C-3, Beverhoutplein 13, tel. (+32) 923 36 220,
[email protected], www.zahia.be. Looking for a truly
unique piece of jewellery? At Zahia, you are encouraged to simply
make it yourself. This charming store carries a diverse collection
of ethnic and glass beads, gemstones and clasps in all shapes
and sizes, all at reasonable prices, to help you on your way. High
time to get started then! If you feel like you might be needing
some help, the shop offers a range of workshops. Besides the
colourful necklaces, rings, bracelets and ornaments, you can
discover Asian, Moroccan and Chinese antiques displayed on
Zahia’s many shelves. Tip: Zahia is conveniently situated on a
cozy square near Sint-Jacobs, where you can browse the weekly
flea/antiques market. QOpen 10:30 - 13:00, 14:00-18:00.
Closed Sun. JA
Lingerie
Belgrado C-3, Henegouwenstraat 83, tel. (+32) 923 30
184, [email protected], www.belgradobodywear.be. Men
with style buy their underwear, beachwear and homewear at
Belgrado, a small homely shop full of indulgences for men.
QOpen 11:00 - 18:30. Closed Wed, Sun. PJA
Lineos C-3, Henegouwenstraat 47, tel. (+32) 923 32
433, www.lingerie-lineos.com. Cool retro style shop with
ultra feminine underwear, swimwear from designers with style.
The house poodle completes the look of the shop. QOpen
10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:30. Closed Sun. JA6
Sensi B-2, Hoogpoort 3, tel. (+32) 933 00 327,
[email protected], www.sensiwear.com. Although
Sensi is a shop for fine lingerie, beach and bodywear, there’s
quite an erotic atmosphere whirling through it. Q Open
11:00 - 18:00. Closed Wed, Sun. PJA6
Music shops
Music Mania C-4, St-Pietersnieuwstraat19, tel. (+32)
477 77 07 43, fax (+32) 477 43 62 13, [email protected], www.musicmaniarecords.com. A record
shop as it was meant to be. You could easily spend hours
browsing through the classic vinyl records, with everything
from AC/DC to Miles Davis. In case you don’t own a record
player, you could either get one here or just browse through
the CDs. QOpen 11:30 - 18:30. Closed Mon, Sun. J6
Music Zombi C-3, Keizer Karelstraat 21A, info@music-
zombi.com, www.musiczombi.com. A music shop selling
only vinyl? This is the place to come. The sales person isn’t
really a zombie - he’s actually very friendly - so where the
name of his shop comes from beats us, but the selection of
vinyl is great. QOpen 11:30 - 18:30. Closed Mon, Sun.
Markets
Antique, flea and second hand market C-2,
Sint-Jacobs and Beverhoutplein. If you’re a bargain
hunter or like your interiors to be vintage, then go hunting on the square in front of the Sint-Jacobs church on
Friday, Saturday or Sunday morning. The atmosphere is
good and there are enough cafes along the market where
you can take a break and think of a haggling strategy
for that great find you just made. QOpen Fri, Sat, Sun
08:00 - 13:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu. J
Flower Market B-3, Kouter. At the Kouter, market
venders sell fresh cut flowers or plants on a daily basis.
On Sunday however, the flower market is larger and more
alive. Families, couples or anyone who loves some early
liveliness comes here to buy flowers or just have a cup
of Illy coffee at the coffee caravan La Dolce Barista. To
start your Sunday with some flair, go to De Blauwe Kiosk
(the blue kiosk) on the other side of the square. This
oyster and aperitif bar serves oysters with wine, cava
or champagne on Saturday (11:00-14:00) and Sunday
(11:00-16:00). Between April and September, the plaza
gets even more animated with an orchestra in the bandstand (10:30-12:00). QOpen 07:00 - 13:00. JL
Second hand book market B-3, Ajuinlei & Recolletenlei. For a couple of years now the book stand
holders at Ajuinlei and Recolletenlei have been trying
to create a sort of Paris on the Lys. Passer-bys or book
lovers stroll between the narrow tray tables covered with
(mainly) second hand books, posters, comics and vinyl
records. Whether you will be able to find the purchase of
your life here is questionable, but it’s definitely worth the
walk on a sunny Sunday morning. QOpen Sun 09:00 13:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat. J
Vrijdagmarkt B-2 & C-2, Vrijdagmarkt. Sundays
the Vrijdagmarkt transforms into a giant pet shop. Fish,
birds, rabbits and other animals are patiently waiting for
a new owner while traditional bagpipe players take care
of the music. Popular with elderly people and families
with kids. QOpen Sun 07:00 - 13:00. Closed Mon, Tue,
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat. TJ
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Shopping
Shoes, Sneakers & Streetwear
Catwalk C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 116, tel. (+32) 933 09
174, [email protected], www.catwalk-gent.be. A
must-visit if you’re on the lookout for your new favourite pair of
(party) shoes. From a small monumental pawn Catwalk sells
extremely feminine footwear, all made of quality leather. QOpen
10:30 - 18:00, Mon 14:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JA6
Imagine C-3, Henegouwenstraat 46, tel. (+32) 922 37
525, www.imaginegent.be. Imagine you would have an
infinite amount of money. Imagine you live in Ghent. Imagine
a small shop full of sexy designer shoes... We would see you
here a lot. QOpen 10:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:30 - 18:00. Closed
Sun. PJA6
Obius B-2, Meerseniersstraat 4, tel. (+32) 923 38 269,
[email protected], www.obius.be. In a pretty street on the
Vrijdagmarkt Obius sells shoes, tops, bags and perfumes
from big name designers. QOpen 10:30 - 18:30, Mon 13:30
- 18:30. Closed Sun. JA6
Touché C-3, Brabantdam 56, tel./fax (+32) 923 31 422,
[email protected], www.touche-gent.be. Both men
and women can find shoes of their taste in this new fresh
shoe shop. When you’re trying on your possible new shoes
on the apple green sofa and the attendant is sitting there
with you, you feel instantly at home. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Sun. JA
Speciality shops
Bietini Design C-3, Brabantdam 88 & 90, tel. (+32)
923 43 120, [email protected], www.bietinidesign.
be. Trend watchers feel at home in this well equipped shop
with lots of stuff for a modern home, like wooden furniture and
lamps. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JAL
Candela Verlichting Antwerpsesteenweg 1066a,
[email protected], www.candela-verlichting.
be. Modern and traditional lighting is available in this well
designed shop. QOpen 10:00 - 12:00 & 13:30-18:30, Sat
10:00 - 12:00 & 13:30-18:00. Closed Tue, Sun. AL
Hadhi C-3, Brabantdam 53, tel. (+32) 470 09 67 20,
[email protected], www.hadhi.be. Home of ethnic crafts
and ceramics from Colombia. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon
13:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JAL
Oxfam wereldwinkel C-4, Lammerstraat 16, tel. (+31)
922 34 602, www.oww.be. This organisation of shops in
Vlaanderen is run by volunteers who believe strongly in supporting vulnerable workers in Third World countries by giving
them fair compensation for products like toys, clothing and
jewellery. QOpen 10:00 - 18:30. Closed Sun. TJA
Tierenteyn-Verlent B-2, Groentenmarkt 3, tel. (+32)
tierenteyn-verlent.be. Mustard speciality shop Tierenteyn
is situated in a listed building and the family’s love for tradition has left everything in this shop the way it used to be.
The famous mustard is prepared behind closed doors in the
cellar according to traditional methods dating back to 1790.
QOpen 08:30 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Timmermans 1845 B-2, Kortemunt 5, tel. (+32) 922
33 257, fax (+32) 922 38 271, info@timmermans1845.
be, www.timmermans1845.be. If you want a man to feel
special, buy him one of the prestigious gifts from Timmerman. In their unique, listed 17th-century building you’ll find the
biggest pen collection in Belgium. Leather goods are another
specialty here. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JA
Twiggy C-3, Notarisstraat 3, tel. (+32) 922 39 566,
[email protected], www.twiggy.be. Great selection of
Belgian designers, no need to take the Thalys to Paris! Here
you’ll also find trendy French designers, with a wide selection
from cheap to more expensive. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu
10:00 - 20:00. Closed Wed, Sun. A6U
Tea & Coffee shops
Simon Lévelt B-2, Kleine Vismarkt 5, tel. (+32) 923 42
www.simonlevelt.nl. Tea and coffee from all over the world,
most of it is organic and has a fair trade label. The person
behind the counter will be happy to give advice about the best
way to prepare each type of tea or coffee, in case you have
no idea! QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Sweets
Chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke B-2, Sint-Baafsplein 15, tel. (+32) 922 10 381, (+32) 922 42
510, [email protected], [email protected], www.chocolatesvanhoorebeke.
be. Criticizing an institute like the chocolate shop of
Hoorebeke won’t be appreciated by many people in Ghent, since this family business has two locations in the
city and is known for what are called the ‚most delicious
chocolate bonbons in Ghent, maybe in the whole of Flanders’. The shop at the Sint-Baafsplein even has an open
workshop place where, like a true voyeur, you can watch
in awe and be tantalized by these chocolate artists. Yet
we found that, even after a few visits, the quality of the
handmade bonbons and pralines was not as it should
be. And that’s disappointing considering you’re paying a
ridiculously high price for any of the beautifully displayed
‚artworks’ in this Ghent temple of sweets. There’s also
a second shop with a beautiful range of sweets at Jan
Breydelstraat 1. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. PAU
Joost Arijs C-3, Vlaanderenstraat 24, tel. (+32)
933 62 310, [email protected], www.joostarijs.be.
This place was awarded in the prestigious Gault&Millau
for best patisserie in Belgium, need we say more? Their
pralines, macarons, biscuits, tarts and even ice cream
are heavenly! Don’t skip this one. QOpen 09:00 - 18:30,
Sun 09:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Tue.
Temmerman B-2, Kraanlei 79, tel. (+32) 922 40
041. You shouldn’t eat too much of the sweet Ghent
specialties from Temmerman. If you do, you won’t be
able to move around anymore in this pretty, tiny shop
full of old fashioned sweets. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Tue. J
Yuzu C-4, Walpoortstraat 11a, tel. (+32) 473 96 57
33, [email protected]. Nicolas Vanaise used to
be a historian, and changed his professional career and
dived into the history of chocolates instead. Served in
nice, yellow boxes, no one is able to resist these square
chocolates filled with tobacco, mustard, cheese, olive
oil or even Ghent specialities : Roomer and Ganda ham.
Definitely a must-go and a must-taste; this place. And
if you’re there, ask the owner why his shop was named
Yuzu, he will happily explain. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Sun.
directory
Hairdressers & Barbers
€1= GBP £0.85; US$1.30
(2 June 2013)
Coiffure Rassahaert & zoon C-4, Lammerstraat 18,
tel. (+32) 922 57 134. This has been a good place to get a
decent haircut since, well, God knows when. No appointment
needed, just head in an take your place in one of the stylish,
old-fashioned chairs. Men only. QOpen 08:00 - 17:45, Sat
08:00 - 16:45. Closed Mon, Sun. Haircut: €13,50. J
Cut Paste&Paint B-3, Onderbergen 43, tel. (+32) 922
44 120, www.cutpastepaint.be. Hairdresser and makeup artist Lieve Michiels and her team do hair, make-up and
much much more. Dreadlocks, braids, extensions, a perm or
a fancy do à la Grace Kelly: you name it, they do it. Michiels
uses mainly Tigi hair products and Make-up Studio cosmetics,
as these are not tested on animals. Looking great and being
kind to Mother Nature at the same time: a win-win situation.
Word to the wise: The groovy salon has a great many fans
in Ghent, so always book your appointment well in advance.
QOpen Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 09:30 - 18:30, Sat 09:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon, Sun. J
De Cliént Walpoortstraat 4, tel. (+32) 932 99 441, info@
declient.be, www.declient.be. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Thu,
Fri 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. A
Don y Doña Sluizeken 31, tel. (+32) 922 51 236, info@
dondona.be, www.dondona.be. If not for your hair, then at
least go there to look at the art stuff in their window. Love it!
QOpen 09:00 - 18:30, Thu 09:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. A
Gino’s Hairclub Dampoortstraat 28, tel. (+32) 922 38
Y&D kapper C-4, Wilsonplein 1, tel. (+32) 923 37 575,
younganddynamickapsalon.be. At three different places in
Ghent you can find these modern salons. This one is conveniently located at the entrance/exit doors of the Gent Zuid
mall. Haircuts from €26. QOpen 09:00 - 18:30, Mon 10:00
- 18:30, Sat 08:30 - 18:00. Closed Sun. PTJA
Banks
BNP Paribas Fortis B-3, Zonnestraat 2, tel (+32)
2 762 20 00. Q Open 09:00-16:00, Sat 09:00-12:00,
Closed Sun.
Europabank Burgstraat 170, tel. (+32) 922 47 311,
[email protected], www.europabank.be. Q Open
09:30 - 17:00, Thu 09:30 - 18:30. Closed Sat, Sun.
ING Bank Antwerpsesteenweg 37, tel. (+32) 921 88
100, fax (+32) 921 88 108, www.ing.be.
SG Bank De Maertelaere Rijsenbergstraat 148,
tel. (+32) 924 22 222, fax (+32) 924 22 244, www.
sgbdm.be.
Spas & Beauty
Beauty Queen B-2, Donkersteeg 22, tel. (+32) 933 62
451, [email protected], ww.beauty-queen.be. ‘Beautique’ Beauty Queen is one of Ghent’s few city spas. Prepare
to be pampered with pedicures, manicures, facials etc. This is
a (girly) bit of heaven, tucked away in the Donkersteeg. If you
want to continue the beauty fest in your own bathroom, Beauty
Queen carries a wide range of products for you to take home.
The owners make a point of selecting brands that you wouldn’t
normally find in Belgium, such as Principessa, Bombay Duck,
Face Boutique, and Cake. Still unsure after having browsed the
shelves? The friendly staff will quickly help you find the products
that suit you best. QOpen Mon 12:00 - 18:30, Wed, Thu, Fri,
Sat 10:00 - 18:30. Closed Tue, Sun. JAD
Dosha B-3, Mageleinstraat 10, tel. (+32) 922 12 318,
[email protected], www.dosha.be. Dosha offers a wonderfully
relaxing escape from reality: beauty through harmony, is what
this beauty parlour strives for. Facials and massages, hair
Health
Dentists
BriteSmile Specialist Curesthetics.be Tandarts Suda Marleen Kortrijksesteenweg 724, tel.
curesthetics.be.
Tandarts G. Decarnière B-2, Sint-Michielsplein
9A, tel. (+32) 922 42 473, guy.decarniere@tandarts.
be, www.guy.decarniere.mijntandarts.be. Only by
appointment, which should be made by phone.
Doctor
General Practitioner Tel. (+32) 923 65 000. For
the GP on duty, ring (+32) 923 65 000. For emergencies
during the day, ring 112. QOpen 19:00 - 08:00.
Hospitals
AZ Sint Lucas B-1, tel. (+32) 922 46 111, www.
azstlucas.be. This hospital is located in the city centre.
For emergencies ring (+32) 922 455 50.
Ghent University Hospital De Pintelaan 185, tel.
(+32) 933 22 111, fax (+32) 933 23 800, info@
uzgent.be, www.uzgent.be.
Pharmacies
Apotheek De Belie C-4, Lammerstraat 37, tel.
(+32) 922 52 039, [email protected],
www.apotheekdebelie.be. QOpen 08:30 - 18:15,
Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Apotheek Reep C-3, Reep 44, tel./fax (+32) 922
39 411, [email protected], www.apotheekreep.be. QOpen 08:30 - 13:00 & 14:00-18:30.
Closed Sat, Sun. J
Apotheek Van Gansbeke B-2, Kortemunt 6, tel.
(+32) 922 32 708, fax (+32) 922 39 856, info@
apotheekvangansbeke.be, www.aposite.be/evrard9000. QOpen 09:30 - 18:30, Wed 11:30 - 18:30.
Closed Sun. J
removal treatments and colour analyses, everything is done
with the principles of ayurvedic medicine in mind. Moreover,
the beauticians solely make use of all-natural Aveda products
and cosmetics. You can also customize the plant-based
products by adding essential oils, which are beneficial to your
specific skin type. A dreamy getaway, right in the city centre.
QOpen 14:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JA
Sauna Aqua Azul B-1, Drongenhof 2, tel. (+32) 922
50 957, [email protected], www.aqua-azul.be. QOpen
13:00 - 23:00. JAD
Sauna Raj Corduwaniersstraat 4, tel. (+32) 922 33
732, www.saunaraj.be. QOpen , Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 17:00
- 23:00, Sat, Sun 15:00 - 23:00. Closed Tue. D
Dry cleaners
Vita Shop Kortrijksesteenweg 598, tel. (+32) 922
27 666.
51
52
directory
Press Box
“From Albania to Ukraine In Your Pocket is a
wonderful source of boutique hotels, spas and
great little bars.”
Elle
“Detailed, carefully researched guides.”
Daily Mail
“Solid, reliable information on everything from
where to book a reasonable B&B to how best
to spend 72 hours in a city.”
The Guardian
“You do not even need to pack a guidebook: just
pick up an In Your Pocket when you arrive.”
Simon Calder
The Independent & LBC Radio
“In Your Pocket: a cheeky, well-written series
of guidebooks.”
The New York Times
“Most of the traditional guidebook companies
now have decent websites, with plenty of advice and information either freely available or
downloadable for a fee, but inyourpocket.com
is also well worth a browse. Concentrating on
both well-known and more offbeat European
destinations, its free downloadable city and
country guides are compiled by locals and
regularly updated.”
The Independent
“The secret of the In Your Pocket guides is that,
unlike many expensive travel guides, they are
written by native English speakers living in the
city they are writing about.”
The Irish Times
Laundrettes
Wasbar B-4, Nederkouter 109, tel. (+32) 485 42 34 32,
[email protected], www.wasbar.be. Looking for a laundrette,
music venue and lunchroom combined? Seek no more, this is
your place: you can check your mails, while sipping a glass of
cava, while André, the name of your washing machine, is doing
his very best producing clean clothes and Josephine, the name
of the dryer, is doing her best drying your clothes. Nice brunch
on Sunday morning. QOpen Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 10:00 - 22:00,
Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. JSW
Wassalon B-5, Overpoortstraat 20, tel. (+32) 922 12
787, [email protected]. Self-service washing
machines and dryers, which are primarily used by the students
living in the neighbourhood. Using a washing machine costs
€4, cash only. QOpen 09:00 - 20:45.
Libraries
Bibliotheek Mariakerke Trekweg 1, tel. (+32) 922
79 195, [email protected]. Q Open Mon, Thu
16:00 - 19:00, Wed 14:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 12:00. Closed
Tue, Fri, Sun. W
Bibliotheek Watersportbaan Neermeerskaai 2,
tel. (+32) 922 08 934, [email protected].
QOpen Mon 16:00 - 19:00, Thu 14:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 12:00. Closed Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun. W
Gent Public Library - Gentbrugge Sint-Simonstraat
41, tel. (+32) 923 04 413, [email protected].
QOpen Mon, Thu 16:00 - 19:00, Wed 14:00 - 17:00, Sat
10:00 - 12:00. Closed Tue, Fri, Sun. W
Photo services
Piet De Kersgieter Hamerstraat 122, tel. (+32) 485 13
43 06, www.pietdekersgieter.be.
Wolf en Wolf Francisco Ferrerlaan 40, tel. (+32) 922
79 083, [email protected], www.wolfsite.be.
Sports
Boat rental
MBC Minerva Boat Company Lindelei 2A, tel.
(+32) 923 37 917, www.minervaboten.be.
“With so many European cities now within easy
range, this website is a (literally) priceless first
stop before your holiday. The guides are free
to download and print off as pdfs and have
information on where to eat and stay and what
to see on European city breaks.”
The Times
Bowling
“In Your Pocket guides are each written by an
English language writer who lives locally. All
information is also available on the publisher’s
website.”
Sueddeutsche Zeitung
Fitness & Gyms
“The In Your Pocket series of guide booklets
have turned out to be highly useful in avoiding
tourist traps and other travel hazards. They have
become a European publishing phenomenon.”
International Herald Tribune
Overpoort Bowl B-5, Overpoortstraat 38, tel.
overpoortbowl.be. A game of bowling at this student
hang out costs €2.50 per person on weekday afternoons.
After 19:00 and during the weekend the price is €3.50
per person per game. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun
14:00 - 02:00. GBX
Basic-Fit Gent Dampoort Dendermondsesteen-
weg 23, tel. (+32) 702 22 351, [email protected].
AL
HealthCity Gent Korenmarkt Korenmarkt 2,
tel. (+32) 923 32 775, svandevyver@healthcity.
be. A
HealthCity Gent Zuiderlaan Zuiderlaan 4, tel.
(+32) 924 37 530, [email protected]. AL
Yogatimes Grondwetlaan 22, tel. (+32) 486 86 70
54
Street register
Abeelstraat
C3/D3
Abrahamstraat
A2/B2
Academiestraat
B1
Achterleie
B1/C1
Achtervisserij
D3/D5
Ackermanstraat Frans
C3
Adalwinstraat
D2/D3
Afrikalaan
D1
Ajuinlei
B3
Akkerstraat
A2
Alpacastraat
C4
Annonciadenstraat
A3
Anseeleplein Edward B1/C2
Antheunisstraat KarelC4/D4
Antwerpenplein
D2
Antwerpsesteenweg
D2
Apostelhuizen
C3/D3
Apotheekstraat
B4
Appelbrugparkje
B2
Augustijnenkaai
B1
Baaisteeg
C2
Bachtenwalle
A1
Baertsoenkaai Albert
B4
Ballenstraat
B2
Barrestraat
C2/C3
Basseveldestraat
A1
Bastionstraat
D2
Baudelokaai
C1/C2
Baudelostraat
C1/C2
Bauwensplein Lieven
C3
Baviaanstraat
B1
Beersteeg Willem de
C1
Begijnengracht
A2
Begijnhofdries
A2
Begijnhoflaan
A1/A2
Belfortstraat
B2/C2
Belgradostraat
C3
Bellemansstraat
A1
Bennesteeg
B3
Berouw
C1
Beverhoutplein
C2
Bibliotheekstraat
C1/C2
Biezekapelstraat
C2/C3
Bij sint-Jacobs
C2
Bij sint-Jozef
A1
Bijlokehof
A4
Bijlokestraat
A4
Bijlokevest
A3/A4
Bisdomkaai
C2/C3
Bisdomplein
C3
Blekerijstraat
C1
Blekersdijk
C1/C2
Blindeken
A2
Boeksteeg
B3
Bomastraat
C1
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A2
Bonteleeuwstraat
B3
Boonenstraat Edmond A2
Borreputsteeg
B3/C3
Boterdaelestraat Jan-Baptist
A4
Botermanstraat Jan A2/B2
Botermarkt
B2
Brabantdam
C3
Braderijstraat
B2
Brandstraat
A3
Brandweerstraat
B1
Braunplein Emile
B2
Breydelstraat Jan
B2
Brioolstraat
A3
Brouwersstraat
A2
Brugsepoortstraat
A2
BrusselsepoortstraatD4/D5
Bruyckerdreef Jules deC4/D5
Buitenhof
D2
Burgstraat
A2/B2
Casinoplein
A3
Cataloniëstraat
B2
Churchillplein Winston
B1
Conduitsteeg
B3
Coppinssteeg Gillis B1/C1
Coppinsstraat Gillis
C1
Corduwaniersstraat
B2
Coupure links
A3/B4
Coupure rechts
A3/B4
Creesersweg
A1
Daisnestraat Johan
A3
Dampoort
D2
Dampoortbrug
D2
Dampoortstraat
C2/D2
Dendermondsesteenweg
D2/D3
Destanbergstraat napoleon
B3/B4
Dobbelslot
B1
Dodoensdreef Rembert C2
Dok-zuid
D1/D2
Donkersteeg
B2
Doornsteeg
C2/C3
Drabstraat
B2
Drietorekensstraat
A1
Drongenhof
B1
Duivelhof Geraard de
C3
Duivelsteeg
C2
Duivelstraat Geraard de C3
Eendrachtstraat
D3
Erpelsteeg
C2
Fiévéstraat Désiré
C1/D1
Fonteyneputpleintje
A2
Forelstraat
D4
Frankrijkplein
C4
Fratersplein
B1
Galgenberg
A3
Gandastraat
D2/D3
Garensteeg
B2/C2
Geldmunt
B1/B2
Gelukstraat
C1
Gerststraat
A1/B1
Gesweinstraat Mathias A2
Gewad
B2
Geyterstraat Pierre deB1/C1
Gildestraat
C2
Glazenstraatje
C3
Godshuishammeke
C1
Godshuizenlaan
A4/A5
Goudenleeuwplein
B2
Goudstraat
C1
Gouvernementstraat
C3
Graaf vlaanderenplein
C4
Grasbrug
B2
Graslei
B2
Grauwpoort
B1
Griendeplein
A1
Groenbrugstraat
C1
Groene ooie
D4
Groenebriel
B1
Groentenmarkt
B2
Groot-Brittanniëlaan A4/A5
Grootkanonplein
B2
Grote huidevettershoek C3
Gruuthuusestraat
B2
Guinardstraat Jan-Baptist B4
Guldenspoorstraat
C4
Hagelandkaai
D2
Ham
C1/C2
Handelsdok
D1
Haringsteeg
B2
Haven 120-130
D1/D2
Haven 135-135
D1
Haven 140-190
D1
Haven 70-115
D1/D2
Hazewindstraatje
B2
Heernislaan
D3
Heilig-sacramentstraat B3
Heilige-geeststraat B2/B3
Henegouwenstraat B3/C3
Hertogstraat
B2
Hoefslagstraatje
B2
Hof fiennes
B2
Hof ten walle
A1
Holstraat
A2/A3
Hoofdkerkstraat
C3
Hoogpoort
B2/C2
Hoogstraat
A2
Hooiaard
B2
Hoornstraat
B3
Hospitaalstraat
B4
Houtbriel
C2
Huidevetterken
C1
Huidevetterskaai
C1
Iepensteeg
A4
Iepenstraat
A3/A4
Ijkmeesterstraat
C2
Ingelandgat
B2/B3
Jakobijnenstraat
B3
Jeruzalemstraat
B4
Jodenstraat
C3
Johannastraat Gravin A1/A2
Jongenstragel
D3/D4
Joremaaie
C2
Jozef II-straat
A1
Kaatsspelplein
B1
Kalandeberg
B3
Kalandestraat
B3
Kalvermarkt
C2
Kalversteeg
B1/B2
Kammerstraat
C2
Kapelaanstraat
D2
Kapittelstraat
C2/C3
Kapucijnenham
C3
Karelstraat Keizer
C2/D3
Karmelietenstraat
B2
Karperstraat
D4
Karrenstraat
A3
Kartuizerlaan
B1/C1
Kasteellaan
D2/D3
Kasterbant
D3
Kazemattenstraat
D2
Ketelbrug
B3
Ketelpoort
B3
Ketelvest
B3/C3
Keviestraat
C4
Keyserestraat Pieter deC2/C3
Klaproosstraat
C4
Klein raamhof
A2
Klein turkije
B2
Kleindokkaai
D1/D2
Kleine vismarkt
B2
Kleinvleeshuissteeg B3/C3
Kluizenaarstraat
A1
Kluyskensstraat JozefA4/B4
Koepoortkaai
C3/D3
Koestraat
B3/C3
Kogelstraat
D1/D2
Kolveniersgang
A1
Komijnstraat
A2
Kongostraat
C1
Koningstraat
C2
Koolsteeg
A2
Koophandelsplein
B3
Koopvaardijlaan
D1/D2
Koperstraat
A3
Korenlei
B2
Korenmarkt
B2
Korianderstraat
C3/C4
Korte kruisstraat
B3
Korte meer
B3
Kortedagsteeg
C3
Kortemunt
B2
Kouter
B3
Kouterdreef
B3
Koutersteeg
B3
Kozijntjesstraat
C3
Kraankindersstraat C1/D1
Kraanlei
B2
Kreeftstraat
D4
Krommenelleboog
A3
Krommewal
B1/C1
Krommewalbrug
B1
Kruideniersstraat
C2
Kuiperskaai
C3/C4
Kuipgat
B3
Kwaadham
C2
Lammensstraat Hippoliet A1/A2
Lammerstraat
C4
Land waaslaan
D2
Lange Boomgaardstraat C3
Lange kruisstraat
B3
Lange schipgracht
B1
Lange steenstraat
B1
Lange violettestraat C3/D4
Langemunt
B2
Langhalsstraat
C4
Laurentplein François
C3
Leopoldstraat Keizer C2/D2
Lievebrug
B1
Lievekaai
B1/B2
Lievestraat
B1
Limburgstraat
B3/C3
Lindenlei
B3/B4
Lippensplein Hippoliet
C3
Lousbergbrug
D3
Lousbergskaai Ferdinand D3/D5
Lovelingstraat Gezusters B4
Lozevisserstraat
D4
Luxemburgstraat
A2
Maagdestraat
A3
Maaseikstraat
C3
Mageleinstraat
B2/B3
Magnelstraat Gustaaf
B4
Marcellisbrug
C4
Maria Theresiastraat
A1
Marialand
A2/A3
Martelaarslaan
A4
Mattestraat JonkvrouwA3/B3
Meelstraat
A1/B1
Meerseniersstraat
B2
Metselaarsstraat
D1
Minnemeers
C1
Minnemeersbrug
C1
Mirabellostraat Simon deA1/A2
Mirystraat karel
C1
Moestuinstraat
C1
Molenaarsstraat
A1/B1
Munichstraat Lucas
D2
Nederkouter
B3/B4
Nederkwaadham
C2/C3
Nederpolder
C2/C3
Nieuwbrugkaai
C2
Nieuwebosstraat
D3/D4
Nieuwenbosbrug
D4
Nieuwland
C1
Nieuwpoort
C2
Nodenaysteeg
B3
Nonnemeersstraat A4/A5
Notarisstraat
C3
Offerlaan
A4
Okkernootsteeg
B3
Oktrooiplein
D2
Oliestraat
C2
Onderbergen
B3
Onderstraat
B2/C2
Ooilamstraat
D3
Oostenrijkersstraat
D2
Opgeëistenlaan
A1
Oranjeberg
B3/C3
Ossenstraat
D3
Ottogracht
C1/C2
Oudburg
B1/B2
Oude Beestenmarkt
C2
Oude Houtlei
A2/A3
Oude Schaapmarkt
C2
Oudescheldestraat C3/C4
Oudevest
C1
Paardestraat
D3
Paddenhoek
B3
Pakhuisstraat
B2
Palfijnstraat Jan
C2
Papegaaistraat
A3
Paradijszak
B2
Pasteurlaan Louis
A4
Pauwbrug Napoleon de D2
Pekelharing
A3/B3
Pelikaanstraat
C3
Penitentenstraat
C1/C2
Pensmarkt
B2
Peperstraat
A2
Perkamentstraat
B2
Pijndersstraat
D1/D2
Pilorijnstraat
D2
Platteberg
C3/C4
Plotersgracht
B1/B2
Pluimstraat
A1/B1
Poel
A2/B2
Poeljemarkt
B2
Posteernestraat
A3/B3
Predikherenbrug
B3
Predikherenlei
B2/B3
Prinsenhof
A1/B2
Prinsenhofplein
A1
Prooststraat
D2
Provenierstersstraat
A2
Puinstraat
D3
Pussemierstraat
A3/B3
Rabotstraat
A1/A2
Raffinaderijstraatje
B2
Ramen
A2
Rasphuisstraat
A2
Ravensteinstraat
B2
Recolettenbrug
B3
Recollettenlei
B3
Reep
C2/C3
Regattenlaan
C1/D1
Reke
C1/C2
Rekelingestraat
B2
Ridderstraat
C2
Rodekoningstraat
B1/B2
Rodelijvekensstraat
B1
Roderoestraat
A3/A4
Rodetorenkaai
C2/D2
Rokerelsstraat
A4
Rommelwaterpark
D3
Rozemarijnbrug
A3
Rozemarijnstraat
A3
Rteveldestraat Filips A D3
Saghermansstraat
C3
Sanderswal
A1
Savaanstraat
B3/B4
SchepenenvijverstraatC3/C4
Schepenhuisstraat
B2
Schoenlapperstraat
B2
Schoolkaai
D2
Schouwburgstraat
B3
Schouwvegersstraat
A3
Schuddeveestraatje
B2
Schuddevisstraatje
B2
Schuurkenstraat
B2/B3
Seminariestraat
C3
Serafijnstraat
D1
Serpentstraat
B2/C2
Sint-Agnetestraat
B4
Sint-Amelbergastraat
C2
Sint-Annaplein
C3/D3
Sint-Antoniuskaai
A1/B1
Sint-Baafsdorp
D2/D3
Sint-Baafsplein
B2/C3
Sint-Baafssteeg
B3
Sint-Baafsstraat
B3
Sint-Barbarastraat B3/B4
Sint-Crispijnstraat
B3
Sint-Elisabethplein
A2
Sint-Hubertusstraat
B4
Sint-Jacobsnieuwstraat C2
Sint-Jansdreef
C2
Sint-Jansvest
C3
Sint-Jorisbrug
C2
Sint-Joriskaai
C2
Sint-Katelijnestraat
C1
Sint-Kristoffelstraat
C3
Sint-Kwintensberg
B4
Sint-Liesbetsteeg
B4
Sint-LievenspoortstraatD4/D6
Sint-Machariusstraat
D2
Sint-Margrietstraat
B1
Sint-Martensstraat A3/B3
Sint-Michielshelling
B2
Sint-Michielsplein
B2/B3
Sint-Michielsstraat A2/B2
Sint-Niklaasstraat
B2/B3
Sint-Veerleplein
B2
Sint-Vincentiusplein
B1
Sint-Widostraat
B2
Slachthuisbrug
D3
Slachthuisstraat
D3
Sleepstraat
B1/C1
Sluizeken
B1
Sluizekenkaai
B1
Sluizekenstraat
B1
Smetstraat Gebroeders de A1
Snoekstraat
D4
Spaanskasteelplein
D2
Spanjaardstraat
D2
Speldenstraat
C1
Spijkeboorstraat
C1
Spijkstraat
D1/D2
Spitaalpoortstraat
D1
St.-Antoniusbrug
A1
Stadhuissteeg
B2
Stapelplein
D1
Steendam
C2
Stierstraat
D2
Stoofstraat
B3
Stoppelstraat
A3/A4
Straatje Oliveten
A2
Straatje Zonder Einde
B2
Struifstraat
A3
Stuk 't
C3/D3
Stukwerkersstraat
D2
Tarbotstraat
D4
Tarwestraat
A1/B1
Tavernierstraat Frans B3/B4
Tellstraat Willem
B4
Tempelhof
B1
Theresianenstraat A2/A3
Tichelrei
B1
Tiebaertsteeg
B4
Tinnenpotstraat
B1/B2
Tolhuislaan
B1
Tongstraat
D4
Triomfstraat
A1
Trommelstraat
B1
Tussen 't pas
C2
Twaalfkameren
A3
Tweebruggenstraat D3/D4
Twijndersstraat
C1/C2
Universiteitstraat
B3
Ursulinenstraat
C2
Van Akenstraat SophieA1/A2
Van Caeneghemstraat Jakob C1
Van Cleeflaan Filips
A1
Van Eyckstraat Gebroeders C3
Van Gentstraat Jan
D2
Van Malestraat Lodewijk A1
Van Stopenberghestraat Jan B2
Van Wittenberghestraat
Hector
A1
Vanderdoncktdoorgang
Pieter
C3/C4
Vandeveldestraat
Gebroeders
A3/B3
Varkensstraat
A1
Veergrep
B4
Veerkaai
C2/D3
Veermanplein
C2
Veldstraat
B2/B3
Verlorenkost
B4
Verlorenkostbrug
B4
Verspeyenstraat Jan
A1
Vigneplein Julius de C3/D3
Visserij
D3/D5
Vlaanderenstraat
C3/C4
Vlasmarkt
C2
Vleeshuisbrug
B2
Vleeshuistragel
B2
Vogelmarkt
B3/C3
Voldersstraat
B3
Volmolenstraat
C2
Voorhoutkaai
D2/D3
Vrijdagmarkt
B2/C2
Vrouwebroersstraat B1/B2
Waaistraat
B2
Waalsekrook
C3/C4
Waarschootstraat
A4
Walpoortbrug
C3
Walpoortstraat
C3/C4
Warandestraat
D1/D2
Watergraafstraat
A2/A3
Watermolenstraat
C3
Weertstraat Maurice de A4
Wellingstraat
A3
Werregarenstraat
B2
Wijngaardstraat
B3/B4
Wijzemanstraat
C2
Wilderoosstraat
A3/B3
Wilsonplein Woodrow
C4
Winnestraat Lieven deA3/A4
Wispelbergstraat
A3
Wolfstraat
C2
Wondelgemstraat
A1
Zalmstraat
D4
Zandberg
C2
Zandpoortstraat
A3/B3
Zeugsteeg
B2
Zilverenberg
C2
Zilverhof
A1/B1
Zonder-naamstraat D1/D2
Zonnestraat
B3
Zoutstraat
B4
Zuidstationstraat
C3/C4
Zuivelbrug
B2
Zuivelbrugstraat
B2
Zwaanstraat
B1
Zwaardsteeg
C3
Zwartekatstraat
A2
Zwartezustersstraat A3/B3
58
Index
A Food Affair
26
Achter de Maan
48
Amadeus
27
Antiek Depot
45
Aparthotel Castelnou
23
Aperto Chiuso
28
Apotheek Reep
51
Apotheek Van Gansbeke
51
Argenvino
24
Arts centre Vooruit
16
Aspendos
30
Audivox
45
Australian Homemade
32
Avalon
30
Avis
7
AZ Sint Lucas
51
Balls & Glory
33
Barista
32
Basic-Fit Gent Dampoort 52
Baudelopark
44
B&B Brooderie
23
B&B De Waterzooi
23
B&B Engelen aan de Waterkant
23
B&B Simon Says
23
Beauty Queen
51
Belartisan
46
Belga Queen
24
Bernard Junior
46
Best Western Hotel Chamade
21
Best Western Residence Hotel
Cour St Georges
21
Bibliotheek Mariakerke
52
Bibliotheek Watersportbaan 52
Bietini Design
50
bij'De Vieze Gasten
17
Bijhuis
48
Blaarmeersen Sport and
Recreation Park
44
Boekentoren
41
Boxy
46
Brasserie Ha'
24
Brasserie Pakhuis
26
Brewery Gruut
36
Bridge Portus Ganda
41
BriteSmile Specialist
Curesthetics.be Tandarts Suda
Marleen
51
Brussels Airport
6
Brussels Charleroi Airport
6
Burkelbloem
45
Café Afsnis
35
Café Costume
46
Café De Loge
14
Café den Turk
35
Café Jan van Gent
35
Café Labath
33
Cafe Rene
27
Café Video
15
Campanile Hotel Gent
22
Campo
17
Candela Verlichting
50
Capitole
17
Carlton
21
Carmelite Monastery
40
Castle of the Counts
38
Catwalk
50
Central Africa
10
Citadelpark
44
Club Reserva
15
Coiffure Rassahaert & zoon 51
Cream
46
CR Taxi
7
Cube
47
Cuisine OuVerte
30
Cut Paste&Paint
51
Charlatan
15
Charme Hancelot Hotel
20
Chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke50
De 3 Biggetjes
26
De Appelier
30
De Belleman
35
De Bijloke
14
De Brug
29
De Cliént
51
De Frietketel
25
De Graslei
27
De Ligfiets
7
Den Hoek Af
32
De Poort Croissanterie
33
Design 7
45
De Spinnekop
35
De Stokerij
24
De Tempelier
24
DOK
15
Domestica
26
Don y Doña
51
Dosha
51
Dreupelkot
35
Eat Love
28
Elisa Lee - Glasjuweel
49
Elle et Gand
47
Eurolines
7
Europabank
51
Europahotel
21
Eva Bos
47
Faja Lobi
29
Flanders Expo
14
Flower Market
49
Fortlaan 17
14
Gallery Tatjana Pieters
14
Garden of St Peter's Abbey 44
Gelateria Ferrara
32
General Practitioner
51
Gent Public Library - Gentbrugge
52
Geus van Gent
35
Ghent Marriott Hotel
20
Ghent River Hotel
21
Ghent Tourist Office
5
Ghent University Hospital 51
Gino's Hairclub
51
Godot
26
Graslei
38
Great Beguinage
38
Guesthouse PPP
23
Gwenola
33
Hadhi
50
Handelsbeurs
14
HealthCity Gent Korenmarkt 52
HealthCity Gent Zuiderlaan 52
Herberg De Dulle Griet
35
Hertz
7
Het Archief
45
Het Hinkelspel
46
Het Leescafé
33
Het Salon
33
Het Spijker
36
Het Trefpunt
36
Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant36
Hof van Ryhove
41
Hogar Español
29
Holiday Inn Express Gent 22
Holiday Inn Gent Expo
21
Hot Club de Gand
15, 37
Hotel Adoma
21
Hotel Astoria Gent
21
Hotel de Flandre
22
Hotel d'Hane-Steenhuyse 39
Hotel Gravensteen
22
Hotel Harmony
20
Hotel Onderbergen
22
Hotsy Totsy
15, 37
Huis van Alijn
42
Huiszwaluw
48
Huize Colette
32
Humør
47
Ibis Gent Centrum Opera
22
Ibis St. Baafs Kathedraal
22
Ikurasushi
29
Il Mezzogiorno
28
Imagine
50
ING Bank
51
Intercultural centre De Centrale
17
Jacquet
34
Jazz Café Damberd
37
J.e.F.
27
Jeugdherberg De Draecke 23
Jigger's
36
Joost Arijs
50
Jos
36
Julie's House
32
Kaaiman
36
Keizerpark
44
Kelim Gent
48
Kinepolis
14
Kinky Star
15, 35
Kollektie Eva-Stoffen Janssens
47
Komkommertijd
30
Kopergietery
18
Korenlei Twee
27
Krat
48
Kunsthal Sint-Pietersabdij 42
La Casa del Cubano
26
La Fille d'O
47
La Malcontenta
29
La Resistenza
15, 35
Le Baan Thaï
29
Le Bar Depot, Bistro & Brocante
33
Lekker Gec
30
Lepelblad
25
Les Filles et Les Chiens
47
Limerick
45
Limonada
36
Lineos
49
Maaike Kleedt
47
Martino
25
Masons' Guild Hall
39
Max Mobiel
7
MBC Minerva Boat Company52
McDonald's
28
Mekka
46
MidiSud
23
Mieke
47
Minard Theater
18
Minerva Watertaxi
7
Minor Swing
15, 37
Mis-en-plis
48
Misterioso
37
Mobile Liquor Store
46
Modesalon Seraphine
48
Mokabon
32
Monasterium PoortAckere 22
Mondada
27
Moochie
32
Mosquito Coast
37
Mub'art
34
Multatuli
28
Museum Arnold Vander Haeghen
42
Museum dr. Guislain
42
Museum of Fine Arts
43
Museum of the History of
Medicine
43
Music Zombi
49
Nature reserve BourgoyenOssemeersen
44
Nebula B&B
23
Nenuphar
30
NH Gent Belfort
20
NH Gent Sint Pieters
20
Nonno
32
Novotel Gent Centrum
20
NTGent
19
Obius
50
Old Fashioned
36
Onderbergen 37
23
OR
33
Oud Huis Himschoot
34
Overpoort Bowl
37
Oxfam wereldwinkel
50
Paard Van Troje Bookshop 45
Parkhotel
20
Patyntje
25
Petit Bazaars
48
Phulkari
49
Piet De Kersgieter
52
Polé Polé Café
36
Poppi Cocktail & Lounge bar 37
Postkantoor Gent Centrum 8
Prinsenhof
41
Rabot
41
Rewind
48
Rococo
36
Rouge et noir
48
Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof 20
Sauna Aqua Azul
51
Sauna Raj
51
Second hand book market 49
SG Bank De Maertelaere
51
Simon Lévelt
50
Simon Says
34
S.M.A.K. Municipal Museum of
Contemporary Art
43
Small Beguinage
41
Snack Tosi
28
SnoozInn
23
Sorelle
26
Sphinx Cinema
14
STAMcafe
34
STAM - City Museum Ghent 43
St Anne's Church
40
Steendam 66
26
St. James' Church
40
St Michael's Church
40
Studio Skoop
14
Subway
28
Suite
48
Sushi-food
29
Sushi Palace
29
Tandarts G. Decarnière
51
Tasty World
30
Temmerman
50
't Gents Fonduehuisje
27
The Aula Academica
39
The Belfry
38
The Castle of Gerald the Devil 39
The Episcopal Palace
39
The Fallen Angels
48
The Little Toll House
39
The World of KINA
44
Tierenteyn-Verlent
46, 50
Timmermans 1845
50
Toerisme Oost-Vlaanderen 5
't Oud Klooster
28
Touché
50
Town Hall
38
Trattoria della mamma
46
Trefpunt
15
't Toreken
39
Twiggy
50
Uitbureau
19
Ventura
34
Villa Bardon
28
Vita Shop
51
Vlaamse Opera
13
Vooruit
34
Vrijdagmarkt
49
V-Tax
7
Walry
45
Warempel
31
Wasbar
52
Wassalon
52
Werregarenstraat
41
White Cat
16
Wolf en Wolf
52
Y&D kapper
51
Yogatimes
52
Yuzu
50
Zahia
49
Zebrastraat
14
Zoot
48
Zwembad Van Eyck
40
17
95
nenuphar
re s tau r a n t n e n u ph a r
With lovely waterfront terrace! Open 7/7!
Afsneedorp 28, 9051 Afsnee (Gent) - T 09 221 22 32
[email protected] - www.restaurant-nenuphar.be

Music to your ears Food - the International Society of Plant

Transcription

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