Put on a record by Jerry Lee Lewis because we are going to talk about jukeboxes, petticoats, and the love for vintage. At the new BoHo coffee bar Bar Bakeliet you are welcomed in a ‘50s living room with good music and hot coffee.
The ambassadors of everything vintage in Antwerp are Julie Vrijens and Tim Mouling. Julie started the retro clothing label in 2010. Her designs have made it to the 2014 Oscars and many women’s wardrobes (and dreams). In December, Julie’s husband Tim started a new chapter in their vintage adventure by opening the jazzy coffee bar , close to their charming with the same name.
Bar Bakeliet is an inviting coffee bar with a homey atmosphere. The interior seems to come entirely from the Kringwinkel next door. In reality, Tim is a devout collector of vintage furniture and records, ever since he was only 13 years old. As a result, the coffee bar has a coherent ‘50s style – from the beautiful tea sets to the Chet Baker picture on the wall.
Tim’s dream was to once own an original jukebox. Opening a coffee bar was the perfect excuse to finally buy one. He bought his ‘60s jukebox from a lady who got it for her 14th birthday. She is delighted to see it in its full glory again at Bar Bakeliet. With a piece of 5 (old Belgian) frank you can choose a song and the jukebox will play just like in the good old days.
Music plays an important role at Bar Bakeliet. There is the jukebox, of course, but also a great collection of records. During the time I enjoyed my Machu Picchu tea, I heard everything from oldies to David Bowie and the Belgian band The Scabs. On Fridays, there are after work parties with tapas and once a month a roots band sets the mood with an acoustic gig.
If you are out to find a peaceful coffee and lunch bar outside the city centre, Bar Bakeliet is your go-to spot right in the middle of Borgerhout.
Bar Bakeliet – Kroonstraat 172 Borgerhout
Red Juliet – Lange Koepoortstraat 78 Antwerpen
Text & pics by Tine Van den Poel