Hotspots Mechelen

Places to be in Mechelen

Mechelen, a warm and welcoming city in the heart of Belgium, has a food culture that feels both familiar and refreshingly sincere. Its historic streets are dotted with cosy cafés, lively brasseries, and modern spots where local chefs put their own spin on Belgian favourites.

Mechelen’s food is a mix of hearty Flemish classics, locally sourced seasonal produce, historic flavours, and a very strong beer tradition. Whether enjoyed over a long lunch or a quick bite by the canal, Mechelen’s food scene captures the city’s easygoing, genuine character.

Visitors can also explore Mechelen’s vibrant markets, where the scent of freshly baked bread, artisan cheeses, and colourful fruits fills the air. Street food stalls and speciality shops offer a taste of the city’s creativity, from innovative twists on traditional dishes to international flavours embraced by the local community.

Coffice

Coffee, Breakfast, Lunch

Coffice is a unique blend of a speciality coffee bar, coworking space, and event venue—all under one roof. Coffice isn’t just about great coffee; it’s a culinary destination in its own right.

Graspoort

Fancy

Graspoort is a refreshed urban sanctuary located in the heart of Mechelen city. The atmosphere is peaceful yet vibrant, casual yet refined.

Bistro Georges

French

Bistro Georges in Mechelen offers a fresh take on the French-bistro tradition. It fills a gap in Mechelen’s gourmand scene by placing French classics front and centre.

Centpourcent

Fancy

Centpourcent, from star chef Axel Colonna-Cesari, in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, is a place where gastronomy becomes an experience.

Foom

Breakfast, Lunch

Under the watchful eye of St. Rombouts Cathedral, foom sits tucked along the street as a cute spot for breakfast, lunch or a quick pastry fix.

Thaison

Thai

Thaison is a Thai restaurant in the heart of Mechelen. Want to be immersed in the flavours of Thailand? This is the place to be!

Tangthai

Thai

Tangthai is a cosy Thai restaurant in Mechelen. When you walk in, the cosy interior and soft Thai ambience instantly transport you: wood tones, subtle lighting and a calm, welcoming vibe.

Unwined

Wine

Unwined is a cosy wine bar under St Rombouts Cathedral in the heart of Mechelen. Here you can enjoy a nice glass of wine and a bite to eat.

Merad

Turkish

Merad is a Turkish restaurant in the heart of Mechelen. For over 10 years, they have built a reputation in Mechelen. They owe this to their delicious dishes, generous portions and extensive menu.

Carbon bar & kitchen

Streetfood

Carbon is a streetfood restaurant in Mechelen. Right in the centre of Mechelen, they bring their passion for street food from every corner of the world to your plate.

Cosma

Fancy

Cosma offers a modern and inviting setting for those seeking a refined dining experience.

Bar Bao

Streetfood, Asian

Bar Bao stands as a testament to the culinary passion of its founders. They have brought their love for steamed buns to the forefront of Mechelen’s dining scene, opening their first restaurant to share the joy of their discoveries with the local community.