For a great concert, you don’t always have to go to De Roma or the AFAS Dome. With its rich jazz tradition and vibrant music scene, Antwerp has plenty of cafés that will get you swinging.
De Muze
Antwerp’s most famous jazz café opened its doors in 1964 and quickly became the cultural mecca of the Antwerp artist scene. Singer Ferre Grignard, author Hugo Claus, actor Jan Decleir, artists Panamarenko and Fred Bervoets... They were all regulars here. A café with an artistic reputation from Paris to Amsterdam.
Melkmarkt 15, Historical Centre
Kid’s Rhythm ‘n’ Blues Kaffee
At the Grote Markt, you will come across Kid’s Rhythm ‘n’ Blues Kaffee, an Antwerp rock bar with an American look & feel. For almost 30 years, national and international acts have performed here. It is no wonder that artists like Joe Cocker, Iron Maiden, and Motörhead have been seen at the bar here. The place to be for hefty guitar violence and pounding drums.
Grote Markt 50, Historical Centre
Café Cabron
A brown pub with live performances on Wednesdays and Thursdays, DJ sets at
the weekend and new beer suggestions every month. Belgian bands such as Tamino, SONS and Equal Idiots played at Cabron just before their breakthrough. Authentic and atmospheric vibes are guaranteed in this old-school stage café.
Kaasrui 1, Historical Centre
Hopper
For an intimate jazz experience, head to Hopper, diagonally across from the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp. Admire musicians from the local jazz scene as they perform and immerse yourself in the warm and artistic atmosphere. Explore the diverse beer menu and enjoy blues, fusion and everything in between.
Leopold de Waelstraat 2, Het Zuid
Den Hopsack
Live music and beer, but also literature, philosophy and science: at the bar of Den Hopsack they have been putting the world to rights for more than 50 years. The historic building dates back to 1642. Conviviality and togetherness are at the heart of this café, where singers of sentimental songs such as Wannes Van de Velde and Guido Belcanto have performed.
Grote Pieter Potstraat 24, Historic Centre
Djingel Djangel
A record shop, café and concert venue all in one place: Djingel Djangel is a home for music talent and the ideal meeting place for music lovers. During the day, you buy vinyl records there, while in the evening you can enjoy live performances ranging from jazz fusion and indie pop to new wave and Latin. A hidden gem with its vintage decor and warm ambience.
Bordeauxstraat 7A, Eilandje
Het Beestenbos
An authentic eatery with folksy conviviality, an extensive beer menu, comfort food and brunch on Sundays. Every week in Het Beestenbos you can enjoy a jazz or other performance. The spacious terrace on one of Antwerp’s most underrated squares is an absolute plus point.
Sint-Andriesplaats 17, Sint-Andries
The Antwerp Pianist
In a historic 15th-century building, The Antwerp Pianist brings together music, ambiance and refinement. With a grand piano centre-stage, you'll enjoy intimate concerts, an exceptional wine selection and appetisers that perfectly match the vibe at this wine bar.
Lijnwaadmarkt 3, city centre
Steurzender
Not a traditional music cafe with live performances, but a musical oasis for foodies. Inspired by Japanese listening bars, Steurzender offers a cosy setting where vinyl and high-quality audio installations take centre stage. From Abba to Zappa - all genres are covered, and you can even bring your own records to share. Enjoy a hot coffee or a nice cocktail while discovering new music and listening with friends.
Bar Lucy
On the charming Hofstraat, you will find Bar Lucy, a warm and intimate music cafe combining live performances, a good glass of wine and a cosy atmosphere. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can enjoy the vibe until the early hours - until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is on the calendar every Thursday at 9:30 pm and Sunday at 8:30 pm. Musician Willem Ardui puts together a surprising lineup each time, with genres ranging from pop, funk and soul to jazz, blues, folk and ambient. No two nights are the same, and always offer a unique musical experience.
Jazz on the Map
Jazz can be heard throughout in the city. And new venues are always opening their doors. Together with various Antwerp partners, Rataplan has mapped all the jazz spots in Antwerp. Click through to the city map and discover all venues, labels, festivals, cafes, record stores and more.
More nightlife tips:
Clubs and nightclubs – immerse yourself in Antwerp's nightlife
Discover the clubs and discotheques on offer in Antwerp.
Concert and theatre halls
An overview of the best places in Antwerp to enjoy music, theatre and/or dance.