Bar Festiv, Antwerp, Belgium

The Bonapartedok in the Eilandje district of Antwerp, famous for the MAS maritime museum, is now flanked by a series of new restaurants and bustling bars. One of these is Festiv Bar next to its sister eatery Lux, both owned by restaurateur Peter Vanhulle who also recently launched the Catalan influenced dining room, Món.

The interior design by Belgian firm, AIDarchitecten pays tribute to Antwerp’s port and the surrounding water thanks to a wavy, wooden construction reminiscent of the inside of a ship’s hull. The sommelier serves 12 wines by the glass, from top-notch Barolos to lesser-known boutique labels. Patrons can order small bites from the Lux kitchen next door, made to match the bar’s extensive cocktail menu. From 11 in the morning, Festiv endeavours to create the perfect after-work or meeting vibe, especially from Thursday to Saturday, when a house-DJ sets the tone and Krug champagne is served by the coupe.