When guests ask me where to eat Italian in Antwerp, I send them to Ristorante Arte on the Suikerrui, in the historic centre. The Grote Markt is within walking distance, so it suits an evening in the old town very well. What I value here is traditional Italian cuisine, cooked simply and honestly, without any fuss.
The kitchen is rooted in the traditions of Sardinia, with carefully selected ingredients that respect the seasons. Homemade pasta is a core part of the menu, including ravioli, cannelloni, lasagne and gnocchi. There is fresh fish and seafood, such as sea bass, turbot, scampi and clams, and meat dishes of veal, lamb and beef tenderloin. The pizza menu offers classics such as the Margherita, as well as a truffle pizza.
The seasonal suggestions change and are listed as the kitchen's favourites, so I would look at them first. Vegetarians will find the vegetable pizza and the mixed-vegetable pappardelle, and for dessert there are tiramisù, panna cotta and homemade cheesecake. The atmosphere is relaxed and hospitable, and it suits a quick lunch, a full dinner or simply a glass of wine. For guests staying in one of our homes, it makes a pleasant, unhurried evening out in the city.
