Antwerp: I wouldn't want to live anywhere else

Meet Tom! Generous and proactive host for misterb&b. He gave us many good tips for visiting Antwerp. 

What makes Antwerp a favorite gay destination?

Antwerp has a great diversity even within it's gay community. Although it's relatively small, Antwerp has a lot of variety: Twinks, bears, drag queens, jocks, you name it. The bars and shops are spread out all over town, so you can discover this beautiful city going from one to another.

What is the best gay event that takes place in Antwerp?

Like in many cities, the Pride is probably the biggest and most exuberant gay event. The Leather Pride, which takes place in winter, is also worth mentioning: the fetish scene is popular in Antwerp. But there is always something going on, just ask the locals. Belgians are very eager to help.

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

For lunch you should go to Bette's Picnic: very cosy, delicious food, centrally located. For dinner Reload is a must! Make reservations because it's very popular.

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

There are too many to choose from! Café Delux is very central and laid back, Santos and Twilight are great, the ambiance at Que Pasa later at night, Den Draak, Hessenhuis, ... You're in Belgium, so there's great beer everywhere! ;)

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

Popi Café has new owners, I hear their cocktails are great.

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

Without a doubt, for almost 20 years already: the infamous Red & Blue. Every week is different with party concepts like Extrvaganza, H.I.M, Obscura, Papa Party, Unicorn, Marikon, Rapido, Studio54, ... Hundreds of party boys and men from all over Europe every weekend.

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

I wouldn't know about wednesday, but on tuesday Que Pasa is the place to be. Happy hour is from 11pm until midnight (every day), and there is always something going on on the small stage: drag queens, free podium e.g.

Where to start a gay tour in Antwerp?

I would suggest to start from the terrace of Café Delux or Twilight. Or why not from a fetish shop: Toys4Boys or Mister B, to name a few.

Check out Café Strange: the oldest gay bar in Antwerp, it hasn't changed a bit in half a century!

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Café Den Draak is located in the Pink House of Antwerp, a gathering place for gay organisations and clubs. It's a bit further away in the Zurenborg quarter, my beautiful neighborhood :-) Or join Active Company, Antwerp's LGBT sports club with a dozen different sports to choose from.

How gay-friendly is Antwerp?

In the center you won't encounter any problems. A bit further away, you might want to be a bit more careful, especially at night. Some communities are not too fond of two men holding hands. But our city council always gives it's full support to gay events like the Antwerp Pride.

What is gay life like in Antwerp?

I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. The gay community in Antwerp is much like a huge family. And there is so much going on: people come and go, new bars, clubs, parties ... Ah yes the parties! SPEK, Jugendwahn, Extravaganza, Unicorn, ... My favorite places to socialize, dance and go crazy!.

What are your favourite gay venues in Antwerp?

Que Pasa, The Boots, Random