Belgian Den Anker restaurant closes 'for a while'

Popular Belgian eatery Den Anker, located at the V&A Waterfront, has said they will need to close “for a while” due to the loss of income during the COVID-19 pandemic. Famed for their seafood fare flown in from Europe, the restaurant has become one of Cape Town’s beloved eateries.

“It is with heavy hearts that we have decided, in order to get to the other side of this time which is proving to be extremely hard on our industry, it is necessary to close for a while. Economically there is little sense in staying open.

“Our 77 strong team hopes to welcome you back at a point that our business is more sustainable and that being open provides a place for us all to have an equal opportunity at employment,” the eatery said in a statement. “We continue the struggle with our insurers as well as TERS and are determined to get ourselves back into a space where we are able to open and welcome guests back to our home.”

It is with heavy hearts that we have decided, in order to get to the other side of this time which is proving to be…

Posted by Den Anker on Wednesday, July 22, 2020

“Our last day of trade before our hiatus will be Sunday, July 26.”

Many were dismayed to see Den Anker’s Facebook post, and expressed this openly.

“The wheel will turn special humans!! You will be back and be so well supported once the borders open – Love and strength to you all!!” one social media user wrote.

“Give and you shall receive and that is exactly what you guys have done throughout this terrible time. Will wait to get the back a buddy info. Love to you all,” another said.

Den Anker has been in operation for the 21 years, and was first opened by Belgian founder Denis Bouckaert. It has become popular for it’s small-brew Belgian beers, and the restuarant also had its own special beer on tap, which was brewed and flown in from Lochristi.

Den Anker has launched a BackABuddy campaign, and asked their loyal customers to help support them through this trying time.

Picture: Den Anker/Facebook