Madonna Antwerp sits inside the KMSKA, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, in the Bruisende Zuid district, and it is the first place I suggest to guests on a holiday in Antwerp who want lunch among the art. The museum stands on Leopold de Waelplaats, and the entrance to Madonna is on the right-hand side of the building, along the Beeldhouwersstraat. Seven centuries of art hang inside, including the world's largest collection of James Ensor and Rik Wouters, so a table here slots easily into a day with the paintings.
The kitchen combines rich tradition with fresh ideas, serving simple dishes built around pure flavours. The menu follows the seasons and relies on local produce, and vegetarian choices are clearly marked. Please note that tables cannot be booked, which keeps Madonna open to every visitor to the museum.
The terrace is set in the KMSKA gardens. On Thursday evenings, KMSKA Late fills the Keyserzaal with live music, and Madonna runs a pop-up bar serving cocktails and mocktails. A private room is available for groups of 12 to 40 people.
Getting here is easy: Antwerpen-Centraal and Antwerpen-Zuid stations are close by, tram and bus stops are within walking distance, and those arriving by car can park at Q-park Steendok.
