Café du Parc - Ostend

Nov 8

Tucked away from the seaside bustle yet at the heart of Ostend, Café du Parc is more than just a café; it’s a piece of the city’s living history. Established in the early 20th century, this elegant venue became a beloved fixture for both locals and visitors alike. With its art deco wood paneling, polished marble tables, and timeless charm, Café du Parc has long been a stylish gathering place, blending the allure of a bygone era with thoughtful, modern touches. Over the years, it has welcomed a vibrant mix of artists, writers, and holidaymakers, each adding to its rich tapestry of stories. Today, it remains a beloved haunt, renowned for its classic pastries and inviting ambiance, offering a warm slice of Ostend’s heritage to all who pass through.

In the summer of 2023, Shannah Zeebroek reopened Café du Parc, infusing it with her unique expertise and vision honed from years working alongside renowned chef Willem Hiele. Having managed the dining room and crafted wine pairings at their former restaurant, Shannah now brings her refined touch to Café du Parc, where she curates a wine list filled with sustainable selections, regional finds, and timeless classics. Her approach emphasizes local flavors and seasonality, making Café du Parc a meeting point for tradition and innovation—a place where Ostend’s heritage is celebrated with a modern sensibility, and every detail reflects her dedication to warm, attentive hospitality.

Every bite at Café du Parc felt like a warm hug, with flavors as comforting as they were memorable. The Tatjespap was a standout, a dish that brought together hand-peeled North Sea grey shrimp, a perfectly poached egg, and creamy crushed potatoes enriched with buttermilk and hazelnut butter. Each element was thoughtfully balanced, with the nutty richness of the hazelnut butter elevating the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. I paired this with a unique apple and cherry cider, Detours That Ain't Real from Denmark, it was a delightful harmony of flavors for 24€ and 12€ respectively.

Then came the Toast Champignon, a luxurious serving on brioche with wild mushrooms and a velvety caramelized onion cream. The earthiness of the mushrooms and the sweetness of the onions made it a true comfort dish, perfectly matched with a glass of red Galapia from Bergerac, which added depth and warmth for just 22€ and 8€. Every bite was an indulgence, each sip a perfect accompaniment—together, an experience to savor.

I highly recommend reserving before heading over. They have a lot of availabilities, so booking is quite easy. While I was there, Sunday lunchtime, the Maître d'hôtel, Steven Ampe, must have refused at least 30 walk-ins, so popping in can be difficult, especially during the weekends.

Café du Parc
Marie-Joséplein 3, 8400 Oostende
CALL 059 790 540