in Antwerp – Belgium
Dim Dining, located in Antwerp, Belgium, is a restaurant that blends modern Asian influences with Western culinary traditions. Since its establishment, it has aimed to create a refined yet approachable dining experience, where seasonal ingredients and precise techniques come together in harmony. The restaurant’s philosophy is rooted in authenticity, with a strong emphasis on fresh, high-quality products sourced from Japan and beyond.
Chef Simon Van Dun leads the kitchen, bringing his expertise and creativity to each dish. Before founding Dim Dining, he honed his skills at Centpourcent in Sint-Katelijne-Waver and Pentagone in Anderlecht, developing a deep understanding of both classic and contemporary cooking methods. His approach is guided by a respect for tradition while embracing innovation, resulting in a distinctive culinary style.
Dim Dining’s atmosphere reflects its culinary vision, offering a space that is both elegant and welcoming. The restaurant’s design, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, creates an environment where guests can fully immerse themselves in the experience. With a commitment to craftsmanship and a passion for detail, Dim Dining continues to evolve, offering a unique perspective on Asian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Antwerp.
I had to attend a social event on a Saturday afternoon in Antwerp, and at the last minute, we decided to start our day with lunch. Without a reservation, I turned to the YEAT app, which was relatively new at the time. It suggested two options, and we decided to go with Dim Dining—an Asian cuisine restaurant led by a Belgian chef.
As someone who isn’t a big fan of sushi, I initially worried that the menu might lean too heavily on raw fish. Upon asking, I was reassured that the eight-course menu would include at least two courses featuring meat. With that reassurance, we went ahead, and course after course, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the creativity and depth of flavors—even in the dishes featuring raw fish.
Beyond the food itself, the staff contributed greatly to the experience. They took the time to explain each dish, patiently answered questions, and engaged with us in a way that felt genuine and welcoming. What started as an impromptu visit turned into a memorable afternoon at a hidden gem in Antwerp.
Because of this unexpectedly wonderful experience, we made the decision to return a few months later with a group of foodie friends. Originally, we had planned to visit another restaurant, but we wanted to share this discovery. Our second visit was still excellent, but the menu closely resembled what we had experienced the first time. The novelty and excitement of discovery weren’t quite as strong. To be fair, the food was just as good, but when expectations are high, there’s always a hope for something even more surprising.
Dim Dining proved to be a great find—an elegant spot in Antwerp where craftsmanship, hospitality, and culinary expertise come together. Sometimes, the best dining experiences happen when least expected, and this was certainly one of them.
Chef: Simon Van Dun
Date of visit: October 22nd 2022
Date of 2nd visit: January 20th 2023
Website: https://www.dimdining.be/en/
Michelin: 1 star
Gault & Millau: 16
