2 Best Restaurants in Antwerp and the Northeast, Belgium

Having held two Michelin stars since 2017, this shooting star on the Belgian gastronomy scene is located in the chapel of a former military hospital, albeit an open kitchen has replaced the altar and stained glass takes its inspiration from the tattoo parlor. The wine list is vast and the average dining experience usually runs past three hours thanks to its 10-course (€215) tasting menu, which is heavily slanted toward fish and seafood. Booking opens 90 days in advance, and can be a chore if you don't plan ahead, but stick with it for the most remarkable dining experience in Antwerp.

Perched atop a huge glass-and-black-metal construction designed by avant-garde architect bOb (his spelling) Van Reeth, this cozy riverside restaurant---with bistro-style food as modern as the surroundings---resembles a docked cruise ship. You're virtually assured a good view, since large windows stretch around the building---boat traffic bustles on the Schedlt River to one side and, on the other, there's a fine view of the cathedral and the Oude Stad.