Via-Via

This place has a hippie vibe. The opposite of pretentious, it feels like entering a new age Himalayan shrine run by foreigners. The cook has massive dreads. The décor is Nepalese prayer flags and massive pictures of meditating gurus. The food is consistent with that ambiance; variations on Belgian dishes with a vegetarian twist. It’s quite delicious, I had a unique mix of goat cheese, cabbage and some sort of starch that really hit the spot.

Right next to one of the most beautiful squares in town, Hendrik conscienceplein, you will find the Antwerp location of Via Via Café. I tend to come here on a regular basis as this is a reasonably prices restaurant that provides you with free WIFI. I like the international cuisine and vibe. They also allow you to keep your table for quite a while if you’re working of having a meeting. Just order once and a while :)

A five minute walk from the Grote Markt, there is this supposed travelers’ hangout. Not quite sure how the traveling comes in, but there is a book shelf with travel guides, a table with leaflets of travel agents etc. The audience is mixed (I have seen older couples, groups of friends, lovebirds and bar flies) and generally on the alternative side.
From the looks of it, they have a week menu with worldly dishes. Last time I had vegetable bulgur with tofu steaks. The tofu was actually tasty. Main courses go for between 12 20 euros for a not-​so-​big plate. In all honesty, if you are traveling on a modest budget and a healthy appetite after your hike, there are cheaper places to replenish your carbs.
The two times I’ve visited the place, the staff members were mostly focused on each other and their friends that come and hang at the bar.