San Remo — Restaurant in Antwerp

When it comes to location, Restaurant San Remo certainly hits the mark. Situated just steps from Antwerp's stunning Central Station, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, this spot has the potential to attract a steady stream of visitors. The interior is pleasant, with a nice attempt at Italian ambiance, and the outdoor terrace offers an acceptable place to sit and people-watch.

However, for me, that’s where the connection to Italy ends.

Upon being seated, we were served a small complimentary starter of bread (likely industrial), flavored butter, and olives — a nice gesture, although not particularly impressive in quality. The wait staff was polite but somewhat performative in their busyness, especially considering the restaurant wasn’t very crowded at the time.

We ordered three dishes: Pizza Napoletana, Pizza Mafia, and a Calzone. Unfortunately, none lived up to even basic expectations.

The dough across all three was overbaked, thin, and dry — cracking apart with no trace of softness or chew, a critical flaw for any pizza. Toppings also left a lot to be desired. Everything seemed to come from industrial sources, lacking freshness and flavor.

The Pizza Napoletana was overwhelmed by anchovies — far too many, too salty, and the fishiness dominated the entire dish. One friend left almost the entire pizza uneaten. The Mafia pizza, loaded with ham, salami, and bacon, somehow managed to have no flavor at all. A few raw onion slices thrown in the center imparted a sharp, overpowering taste that took over everything else.

Worst of all was the Calzone. It came filled with bell peppers and mushrooms, which released so much water that the base of the calzone became soggy despite the overbaked crust. Opening it released a puddle — not an appetizing experience.

As someone who has rated pizzas across different countries and styles, I can confidently say this ranks among the worst I’ve had — possibly the worst. At €17+ per pizza, it’s hard to justify the price for such underwhelming quality.

I usually avoid leaving negative reviews, but in this case, I feel compelled to share my experience in hopes of helping others avoid a disappointing meal. San Remo may look the part from the outside, but if you're after a true Italian pizza experience, you're better off...

Pizzeria San Remo offers a delightful dining experience with its charming ambiance and an impressive selection of dishes. The traditional oven, a centerpiece of authenticity, infuses each pizza with a rustic charm that promises to tantalize the senses. While the prices are fair, reflecting the establishment's commitment to providing value, the service stands out as truly exceptional; attentive and warm, it elevates the meal to more than just a culinary venture. The restaurant itself is a sight to behold, with a decor that marries modernity and tradition in a seamless blend. However, despite these many positives, the pizzas, which should be the stars of the show, fall a bit flat. They lack that distinctive flair one might expect from such a setting, leaving the palate underwhelmed. In a city known for its culinary delights, Pizzeria San Remo holds its own with its atmosphere and service, but when it comes to its signature dish, it seems there is still room for improvement. Nevertheless, it remains a spot worth visiting for those who appreciate the finer details of a well-rounded...

I’ve been coming to San Remo for over two decades — long enough to say I grew up within its walls. This place isn’t just a restaurant to me; it’s a part of my story. The food has always carried the same comforting taste, like a memory that never fades. The staff are welcoming in that familiar, unspoken way — no frills, just warmth.

I love that they still leave the Parmesan at the table — a small gesture, but one that’s always made me feel at home. I’ve blown out birthday candles here, shared quiet dinners with family, even fallen into new conversations on dates.

San Remo isn’t just a place I visit — it’s a place that’s stayed with me. Constant, dependable, and...