BELROY's Bijou — Restaurant in Antwerp

If you're looking for -literally- the perfect Cocktail, go to Bijou. Let me set the scene: Dieter Van Roy can usually be found behind the bar, accompanied by a very capabele crew. The thing about Bijou is the fact that they pride theirselves in serving the exact same cocktail at every serve. This is not even taking into account their creative and ingenious ways of dealing with the classics. The surroundings reflect their attitude to the métier: a classically orchestrated bar, with a modern take. Nothing specifically to divert your to who and what's in front of you. The Bijou products do not need gimmicks or spectacles to add anything. Where a lot of cocktailbusinesses focus on the paraphernalia, bedazzling you with stories, Bijou is very much a school for your drinking palate. Ask the personnel for recommendations and the reasoning behind some combinations, and sit back for the wisdom. It might sound strange, but seeing as a huge part of their knowledge is put into their pre-batch drinks, you should really try one of those. You'll probably end up...

I don't usually take the time but the craftsmanship and care poured into this place stirred something in my own creative spirit:

Belroy's Bijou is the kind of bar that quietly steals your heart. Tucked away with a cozy, dimly lit interior, it evokes a sense of intimacy and intrigue - a bit like stepping into the lounge of a James Bond film. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a quiet moment or really anyone in search of a refined drink.

We were warmly welcomed by Joeri, whose attentiveness and charm added a personal touch without ever intruding on our time together. His hospitality elevated the experience, making us feel both well cared for and at ease.

The cocktails were exceptional, the mood unforgettable. This is a place I’ll gladly return to - and one I’d wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting Antwerpen with a taste for quality and ambiance. The Black Tot rum has a fascinating history and aroma! Thanks again, we...

This is a jewel we randomly found in Antwerp while looking for a quick cocktail before we left. Belroy's Bijou is a very intimate and cosy cocktail bar. The lights are dim, there are lit candles on the tables, the music is jazzy and mellow and the serving is done with class.

Yeah that's the word: classy. I can picture a jazz band playing in sourdine, hip middle class people smoking cigars and sipping margheritas while talking about the latest fashion trends.

Speaking about margheritas, the drinks are absolutely sublime. Well made, tasty and with a great presentation. I felt I received a fancy cake, not a cocktail. They also give water on the house and a small bowl of fruit chips.

We had a Whisky Sour, Vieux Carre, Old Fashioned, Moscow Mule, Mango Unchained and Negronni, and each drink was spot on!

11/10 would...