Mea & Via Antwerp colour outside the lines in Zurenborg

Hotel, bar and restaurant where Antwerp's energy buzzes through art, music, food and accessible luxury.

With the arrival of Via Antwerp, Antwerp's lively Zurenborg district will become even more vibrant: an inspiring mix of hotel, bar, restaurant and cultural meeting place, where Antwerpers and travellers will find each other for art, music, gastronomic discoveries and a good dose of good vibes.

Via Antwerp is about more than a good bed or good food. It is a place where the city walks in. Something is always happening here: an exhibition of young talent, a DJ who unexpectedly gets behind the turntables, a meeting that sticks. Anything and everything is welcome, as long as you bring your curiosity.

"Great cities thrive on connection, and that is exactly what Via Antwerp stands for," says Yuval Herrmann, owner. "We don't just open our doors, we invite the city to come in. Via Antwerp is a living crossroads where every encounter sets something in motion. Whether you stop by for a creative boost, a meeting with flair or an evening full of flavour."

A creative soul

Via Antwerp breathes the energy of the city. You will find work by emerging Belgian talent, carefully curated to capture the beating heart of Antwerp. For instance, artworks by Lene Thys (master student at Sint-Lucas), Maarten Denaeyer and Katrien Vandecruys adorn the walls. Music also plays an important role: from intimate acoustic sets to danceable DJ nights, always with a local accent. Via Antwerp also opens its doors to Antwerp initiatives: at the end of September, for instance, the building will host the launch event of Us By Night, a design and creativity festival. Via Antwerp is not a setting, but a canvas in motion.

Eastern Mediterranean at restaurant Mea

Within the walls of Via Antwerp is Mea, a restaurant that tells as many stories as the art on its walls. Led by chef Omri McNabb, previously at The Palomar in London, Mea serves contemporary eastern Mediterranean cuisine. Mea is an independent culinary destination, with space for more than 150 guests, open daily from 07:00 until late. The menu is a feast for foodies and epicureans alike. Think dishes like Mediterranean lamb chops with a date demiglace and za'atar, hand-cut beef tartare with ajo blanco and green herbs, grilled and glazed cabbage with baharataioli or a tomato carpaccio with smoky aubergine cream. Ideal for sharing, or just barely. Magic happens behind the bar too: Jonathan Scheerlinck (known from Black Smoke Antwerp, among others) mixes and shakes signature cocktails like the Sirocco, Nomads Gold and the Tahini Martini, sending your taste buds on holiday for a while.

Stay a little longer

Via Antwerp is also a place of retreat. In one of the 176 rooms you will find an oasis of peace, style and comfort. No ordinary hotel rooms, but spaces with character, inspired by the art nouveau architecture of Zurenborg. Warm materials, thoughtful details and a touch of creativity make every stay special.

Whether you go for a luxurious escape in the Deluxe Queen, want to dream creatively in the Superior King, stay with the family in a Family Room, or choose one of the spacious dorms for an epic sleepover with friends, there is something for everyone. Ideal for a weekend getaway, a creative city break or an inspiring business trip.

An urban interior

The interior of Via Antwerp honours the rich architecture and artistic soul of Zurenborg. Inspired by art nouveau, the interior is a mix of natural forms, bold colours and rich materials. Local art and playful design elements create an atmosphere that is surprising and timeless.