There’s something about arriving at a restaurant rosy from the spa, all the Christmas lights twinkling through the windows, that makes even the menu feel more generous. That’s how we found ourselves at Henry’s Bistro — the refined yet relaxed dining room inside Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp.
Henry’s Bistro sits next to Henry’s Bar, and together they create the kind of evening that unfolds slowly. High ceilings, soft light, the sense that someone on the team genuinely thought about every detail. Not performance. Just care.
The Setting at Henry’s Bistro
Understated elegance without the stiffness. The dining room manages to feel intimate despite the high ceilings — probably because of the warm lighting and the way tables are spaced. We had a clear view of the garden through the windows, all those Christmas lights stealing the show.
The wine list arrived — an entire book of it. I was hungry and indecisive, so when our server offered to handle the pairing, I said yes immediately. Best decision of the evening.
The Menu at Henry’s Bistro
Under Chef Johan Aarts, the menu blends Belgian-French classics with international influences. Think easy fine dining — refined without being rigid. The menu changes seasonally.
Classic dishes you’ll find:
- N25 Hybrid Caviar — Served with blinis, sour cream, chives and chopped shallot
- Turbot — a classic done beautifully, with grain mustard
- Sole Meunière — simple, elegant, exactly what it should be with beurre noisette
- Oxtail tortellini with parmesan— for when you want something decadent to start
- Dierendonck Filet Pur Rossini — the showstopper I ordered: magnificent beef in the classic Rossini style
What We Ate (And Drank) at Henry’s Bistro in Antwerp
Steak Tartare + Château Haut Ferrand Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
Elegant, perfectly seasoned, the kind of tartare that makes you understand why it’s a classic. There was some kind of burned crumble on top — almost like roasted brioche, but not quite. I still haven’t figured it out, and I think about it more than I should. The Grand Cru was bold enough to complement without overwhelming.
Dierendonck Filet Pur Rossini + Los Vascos Chagual Cabernet Sauvignon
A magnificent piece of beef in the classic Rossini style. The salad on the side had something in that dressing — I’m still sad I didn’t ask what it was. And the Belgian fries, because have you really been to Antwerp if you didn’t try them?
Dame Blanche
That iconic Belgian dessert of vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce. But here, elevated. The ice cream was silky and real, the chocolate deep and rich, poured tableside so it cascades over the vanilla in that perfect moment. Simple. Perfect.
The Service
Polished but warm. Attentive without hovering. There’s an ease that lets you actually enjoy the evening and be relaxed. The wine guidance was excellent — when you’re too relaxed from the spa (like me) to make decisions, let them handle it.
Worth the Visit
Henry’s Bistro delivers refined Belgian-French cuisine without the pretension. If you’re staying at Botanic Sanctuary, it’s the obvious choice for your first evening. And if you’re just in Antwerp looking for a special dinner — especially around the holidays when those lights are up — this is it.
For world-class fine dining, the property also has Hertog Jan (2 Michelin stars) and Fine Fleur (1 Michelin star). Henry’s Bistro hits that sweet spot when you want excellence without formality. Start your evening at Henry’s Bar for cocktails before or after dinner.
» Visiting during November – Jan? You’re in luck! Hop over to the Veuve Cliquot Lodge in the garden.
- Location: Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsmarkt 28, 2000 Antwerp
- Cuisine: Belgian-French bistro, Johan Aarts (Senior Executive Chef)
- Price Range: €€€. Lunch menu from €55 | À la carte mains €30-50
- Best For: Couples, food lovers, special occasions, hotel guests
- Reservations: Recommended, especially weekends
- Dress Code: Smart casual
On the move, to discover more wine & dine reviews for you ♥
Read more of our Antwerp articles:
- Henry’s Bar Antwerp: Cocktails & Fireside Drinks at Botanic Sanctuary
- Things to Do in Antwerp – Ultimate One Day Antwerp Travel Guide
- Luxury Hotels in Antwerp: 7 Best Boutique & 5-Star Hotels 2026
- The Veuve Cliquot Lodge at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp – Champagne & Magic in a Monastery Garden
