Leave a Comment. Posted on May 15, by Deena Gainor. This day found us in Antwerp. We started our morning with some fantastic coffee at the Oasis. We chose Oasis because our friends in Brussels shared that this company was intentionally created as an extension of Breaking Chains, a nonprofit anti human trafficking ministry with the purpose of reaching out to those trapped in prostitution.
And their coffee is outstanding, being direct trade and locally sourced as well. If you find yourself in Antwerp, please be sure to stop in. It was true! The surviving structure was built as early as — after the Viking Raids in an attempt to protect the city. And the photos of this clock tower do not do it justice.
The main town square, the Grote Markt, also has interesting buildings along with the famous Guild Houses, which used to house craftsmen or merchants practicing the same trade.
Last but not least, we did also spend a little time sampling the Chocolate, Frites, and Waffles in Antwerp. There were far too many choices and this was a fun way to sample a few. The above Frites, served with mayo, was from Frituuur No. Delicious for sure. The owner here was very friendly and agreed to make the waffles from fresh dough versus serving us one he had already cooked. We had it with fresh whipped cream and caramel sauce, and it was amazing — although we could not taste the sugar pearls in it like we could when in Brussels and Bruges.
Nonetheless, it was delicious, and next time we may even try it with ice cream. And last but not least, we stopped in at Pierre Marcolini, one of the best chocolate shops in Antwerp, and finished the day off with some thick, decadent hot chocolate. I believe the smile says it all. In reflection, Antwerp offers a unique blend of the historical with the contemporary.
