Henry’s Bar — Restaurant in Antwerp

A Puzzling Five-Star Experience with a Provincial Touch

I recently had the opportunity to visit Henry's Bar in Antwerp, a place that offers a blend of elegance and great food. The setting is truly remarkable, with an atmosphere that exudes sophistication and class. The décor and ambiance are five-star worthy, adding to the overall experience. However, the establishment offers more of a provincial feel rather than the cosmopolitan experience one might expect from a high-end venue.

There were some noticeable discrepancies in the skill level and demeanor of the staff. While some staff members were highly skilled and proficient in their roles, others appeared to be less experienced and less knowledgeable about their responsibilities. This inconsistency detracted from the uniformity and professionalism one would expect from such an establishment.

In addition to the skill level differences, there was a wide range of friendliness among the personnel. Some staff members were warm and welcoming, while others seemed aloof or disinterested. This inconsistency further detracted from the overall experience.

The food, on the other hand, was exceptional. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. However, the prices were slightly higher than I would have anticipated, even considering the elegant setting and the large number of staff. That being said, the food quality did help justify the premium pricing.

Unfortunately, there was one particularly jarring incident that left a lasting impression. When I ordered an espresso martini, the waiter informed us that they had run out of "Nespresso Martini." This was a completely baffling statement, as it demonstrated a lack of knowledge of basic cocktail ingredients and preparation. It was a disappointing moment that diminished the overall dining experience.

In conclusion, Henry's Bar has the potential to be a truly remarkable dining destination. The stunning setting and delicious food are undoubtedly impressive. However, the staff skill level and service quality must be more consistent to create the illusion of a five-star experience. To fully live up to its potential, the establishment must focus on refining these areas and providing its guests with a more consistent, professional, and...

Pretentious and expensive disaster of an experience!

First they did not find our reservation for 4, then they brought us to our table without any welcome or service. Coats anyone? Nope.

Aperitif? Let's go for 3 Hendrickx gin & tonic and some water. A safe bet anywhere, right? Nope: they did not have any Hendrickx gin available in their bar...

Then came the menus on an iPad, 4 of them since we were a party of four. None of them were properly charged or functioning. 45 minutes later we were given paper menus, old style and reliable.

The menu was confusing, nibbles or real dining out? Prices were at the top end, food we ordered was ok at best.

My friend had to beg literally to get his drinks all night long.

Each refill was strenuous to get.

The price for everything should have included proper service. Nope! Arrogance, average food, lazy service is not what you expect in this overhyped and truly expensive venue.

We spent close to 500€ for a party of four, this did not include the 50€ for valet parking...

What a shame: such an amazing and historic venue like De Botaniek run by amateurs with no knowledge or passion for entertaining or feeding their high paying customers.

This Henry's bar is NOT destined for a bright future!

Price is only an issue in the absence of value: This experience gave us NO value at all.

Stay away!

Just walk through the botanic garden and the gorgeous buildings (it's free :-). They have delivered pleasure, relaxation and a friendly welcome for over a 100 years and will do so for...

Unjustifiably expensive drinks and fare.

The doormen are rude and treated me like some unhoused pauper upon inquiring about my dinner reservation.

The mocktails were downright disgusting in taste but costed 13 euros each. Juice for 13 euros huh…

Dame blanche was actually delicious but at 18 euros, it just wasn’t worth the price.

I get it, you’re at a “five star hotel” of which they never let you forget it with the air of pretentiousness and downright rudeness of hotel staff but I can’t help but feel the aura and product this hotel offers just aren’t worth it.

They masquerade as a five star establishment, but have a long way to go before actually being deserving of...