Café Impérial

Perfect for a ladies brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea!
Whenever my mother is in Antwerp we always come here for a glass of champagne and small treats! The interior is very beautifully French (of course because it’s Napoleon’s former palace). I love people watching here. You can tell everyone puts a bit of effort in their appearance before arriving at Café Imperial because all of the diners look so chic.
Great atmosphere paired with delicious food and friendly staff.

What makes this Palace so special is that it once belong to Emperor Napoleon, King Leopold II, Princess of Orange and is now acquired by the Heritage Flanders. The Palace is now converted into a Café, Museum and Kitchen Work Shop. Café Imperial is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy authentic hot chocolate on the terrace. What you will find so interesting is that you will have the option to pick from bitter to sweet chocolate. We decided to try both, and my favorite was the sweet chocolate. I am not a fan of bitter chocolate, although it’s quality stuff, it’s just too pure for me. Unsweetened chocolate does not leave a satisfied taste in my mouth. After sipping both hot chocolates, then I had a better understanding of what real chocolate taste like. We completely appreciated the experience, it was an educational venture to be able to distinguish between different versions of cocoa. Also, make sure to visit the Chocolate line next door. Here you can preview handmade chocolate in the making too. This lovely chocolate factory was discovered by Fabienne Destaerke and Dominique Persoone, who is identified as shock-​o-​latier. When you exhibit their work, then you can see their true passion and love for chocolate.