The estaminets of Rue de Gand
In Old Lille, Rue de Gand lines up its brightly painted estaminets, that old Flemish inn where regional dishes are served on chequered tablecloths. Carbonade, potjevleesch, waterzooï and gratinated welsh come with a bière de garde brewed a few kilometres away. The warm, slightly chatty atmosphere is perfect for a first dinner: you choose together, taste from each other’s plate and let conversation unfold on its own.
Place aux Oignons and Rue Royale
Just a few steps away, Place aux Oignons, tiny and cobbled, is one of the postcards of Old Lille, with its ancient façades and central fountain. The evening continues along Rue Royale, where wine bars, literary cafés and small restaurants line up between the mansions. The idea is simple: wander, stop wherever the music catches your ear, and let the night find its own rhythm.
Wazemmes market and northern flavours
For a morning date, head to the Sunday market in Wazemmes. You will find Maroilles cheeses, chicons, filled waffles and heaps of flowers in a lively, cheerful crowd. A coffee shared on the square makes meeting someone feel almost obvious. On Lyad, singles from Lille recommend their favourite stalls and counters; it is up to you to find someone to push open the door of the next estaminet with.
Date ideas
- Rue de Gand
- Place aux Oignons
- Flemish estaminet
- Flemish carbonade
- Welsh
- Maroilles cheese
- Rue Royale
- Wazemmes market
