The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Antwerp

Antwerp is home to one of Europe's largest and longest-established Haredi Jewish communities, centered around Lange Kievitstraat and Provinciestraat — right by the central train station and the world-famous Diamond District, which Jews played a central role in developing. Here's a short guide to planning your visit.

The synagogue and Chabad House

Machsike Hadass Synagogue is one of the central, long-established synagogues of Antwerp's Haredi community. Chabad House of Antwerp, on Belgiëlei, also serves visiting travelers with information and prayer services.

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Where to eat — a rare abundance

Few cities in the world offer this range: Hoffy's and Eighteen for meat, the long-established Kleinblatt, Mama Mia for pizza and pasta, Blue Lagoon for Mediterranean fare, and Taim to round things out. Hershkovitz-Katz grocery on Isabellalei serves the community.

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The Diamond District — a tour with historical context

Antwerp's Diamond District, centered around Hoveniersstraat just steps from Central Station, handles roughly 80% of the world's rough diamonds — an industry built substantially by Jewish families who immigrated to the city starting in the 19th century. Tip: join a guided tour (such as those offered through the Chabad House) that explains the district's Jewish history — a very different experience from just walking down a street of jewelry shops.

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Grote Markt

Antwerp's central square, ringed by ornate 16th-century Flemish guild houses and the historic city hall, is a convenient starting point for a walking tour of the old town — and it's just a short walk from the Diamond District and the Jewish neighborhood.

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Between the sheer abundance of kosher food, the long-established Haredi community, and the historic Diamond District, Antwerp offers a deep and authentic Jewish experience that's hard to find anywhere else in Europe.