2_2_DiscoverBenelux_23_Nov_2015_Scan Magazine 1 30/10/2015 13:01 Page 18
Discover Benelux | Antwerp | Food & Shopping at De Wilde Zee
Belgian desires in the centre of Antwerp TEXT: MYRIAM GWYNNED DIJCK | PHOTOS: DÉSIRÉ DE LILLE
The tearoom Désiré de Lille is an unmissable household name among locals, but also for visitors to Antwerp. A true meeting location in the centre of the city, there is no other place where the sweet smell of fresh waffles is quite so enticing.
including pastas and salads. Tamara Tomic, of the fourth generation, who coruns Désiré de Lille, has been working at the tearoom for 20 years now. She says: “Our waffles and pancakes are the best in Antwerp, they are made from top-quality ingredients”
One of the secrets to its success is the lacquemant, a thin, crispy waffle filled with syrup. It was developed by the founder of the business, Désiré Smidts, who followed his bakery apprenticeship in Lille. Désiré de Lille is now in the hands of his grandson and the recipe for the delicious lacquemant is still a family secret.
Désiré de Lille prides itself on its fast service, making it the ideal destination for a quick and tasty meal or snack while discovering the city of Antwerp. It has a welcoming entrance, a large heated outdoor seating area and space for up to 300 people to sit inside. Tomic adds: “It is a place
Before Désiré de Lille settled down at its current location, it was a travelling confectionary stall at various funfairs. But thanks to an overwhelming customer demand, they decided to start a tearoom to offer their treats all year round. Aside from the popular lacquemants, hot Belgian waffles and pancakes, the tearoom serves homemade ice creams. And for those without a sweet tooth, there is also a savoury menu
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where locals and tourists mingle and we are very accommodating to both individuals and large groups. We can host birthday parties and, because we’re accessible, it’s not a problem to bring along children in a pram or pushchair.” Visit Désiré de Lille in the Schrijnwerkersstraat, in the centre of Antwerp. It offers a wealth of both sweet and savoury options and almost every dish is pictured on the menu so, after ordering, you’ll know exactly what treat awaits you. desiredelille.be