Pazzo

The story

Pazzo Antwerpen – Michelin-Rated Italian and Modern French Dining

Pure Flavours, Pleasantly Unhinged

On the Oude Leeuwenrui in Antwerpen, Pazzo lives up to its name—Italian for “crazy”—with a personality that is both refined and irreverent. The restaurant’s motto, “Pure smaken. Prettig gestoord,” translates to pure flavours, pleasantly unhinged, and it captures the spirit of a kitchen that takes its ingredients seriously but never itself. The approach has earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction, a recognition that feels earned rather than chased.

The Menu: Italian Soul, Modern French Precision

The cooking at Pazzo balances the bold, sun-drenched produce of Italy with the technical restraint of Modern French cuisine. Starters like Burrata with asparagus salad, bonito, and sesame sit alongside a Norwegian Salmon Tartare lifted by wasabi mayonnaise and sesame. The signature dishes reveal a chef who plays with texture and temperature: Geay oysters appear three ways—natural, under a Champagne sabayon, or with a lemon verbena and thyme granita.

Pastas are a strength. Tortellini filled with stracciatella and Parmesan share the menu with a risotto made from Carnaroli rice. Mains range from a delicate Halibut fillet cooked with Kalamata olives and wild garlic to a Veal loin “Cross & Blackwell” with roasted cauliflower and watercress. For something heartier, the Roasted rack of lamb comes with fresh tabbouleh and chimichurri. Desserts stay true to the restaurant’s dual personality: a Champagne sabayon with vanilla ice cream sits next to a Galanga sorbet with lemongrass, chili, and limoncello, or a classic Tiramisu.

The Wine Bar and Cigar Lounge

Upstairs, the wine bar is a jazz­-inflected space open on weekdays from 6:00 PM. It works equally well for a quiet aperitif or a seated dinner for up to 16 guests. On weekends, the space transforms for larger parties of up to 60. For those who appreciate a fine cigar, Pazzo offers a well-ventilated smoking lounge with a curated selection. The wine list is extensive and built for pairing, with tailor-made options available for groups.

Pazzo is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, closed on weekends and public holidays. The team stays open through the holiday season, pouring an extra glass while others close their doors.