Las Mañas

'Desde 1972' is proudly written on the menu of Las Mañas. The Spanish restaurant of the Espantoso family, with its 48 years, belongs to the culinary heritage of Antwerp. Generations of Sinjoren (Old Antwerp citizens), tourists and many BV's (Fabous Belgians) came to enjoy the typical Spanish cuisine and the exuberant ambiance on the Ankerrui. "But stationary taxis don't catch customers. You have to keep up with the times," says Miguel Espantoso in juicy Antwerp. "After 42 years, the restaurant building was a bit worn out. It was also in the middle of a property that had grown into a block over the years. So time for a new challenge." That challenge consists in the buildings of Ankerrui 34, 36, 38 and 40 being partially demolished and transformed into 17 studios, an underground car park and a ground floor catering space. "In three years' time, we may move the restaurant there again. Or maybe we will stay where we are now. The future will tell," says Miguel, who opened his new Plaza Las Mañas on January 2, 2014, located right next to the old, on the ground floor of the Viking Building at Ankerrui 42.