Cantine

The story

Cantine in Antwerpen Brings Relaxed Mediterranean Bistro Dining to Zuid

The kitchen and its compass

Cantine in Antwerpen operates as a casual Mediterranean bistro where chef Nick Beerlandt channels his background at La Vie into a focused small plates menu. The kitchen treats sharing as the default service model, drawing recipes from coastal cities spanning Lisbon to Athens and Casablanca to Milano. This geographic range shows in their straightforward preparation methods that prioritize bright acids and charred vegetables over heavy sauces.

Plates built for the table

Diners routinely clear space for the crispy shrimp croquettes paired with a rich bisque-style dip, while the grilled Padrón peppers arrive dressed in house-made aioli. A generous portion of fresh asparagus rests beside creamy burrata and salsa verde, offering a crisp contrast to the warmer items. The Belgian-style américain bridges local tradition and Middle Eastern spices, served alongside delicate matchstick fries that soak up the tangy mayo.

Space and local recognition

The dining room balances a neighborhood feel with a sharp contemporary edge, anchored by a corner terrace that fills quickly on sunny days. A narrow kitchen bar lines the main wall, allowing guests to watch staff plate dishes before they move across the floor. This consistent pace earned the venue a spot on the Le Fooding roster, which highlighted the smooth blend of sleek architecture and reliable Mediterranean cooking.