Top 5 Must-Visit Spots In Overpoort

For years, The Corner has been an iconic spot in the Overpoort, attracting both students and locals alike who are looking for a cozy place to eat, unwind, and enjoy a drink 🍻. The magic of The Corner lies in its organic popularity; people return time and again, drawn by the welcoming vibe. From new faces to the loyal “Cornerfriends,” everyone finds their place here, making it a true community hub.

What makes this place so unique?

What sets The Corner apart from other cafés is its warm, family-run vibe. Every day, you’ll find mom, dad, and their two sons welcoming guests with open arms, ready to serve you freshly prepared dishes and unique drinks 🍝🍸. The menu is a delightful mix, offering everything from classic spaghetti to delicious Thai beef salad each dish is made with love ❤️. Let's also not forget their house-brewed beer 'Rudi', named after the owner and proud father. With its relaxed ambiance and friendly team, you’ll feel right at home the moment you step inside!

Cornerland Festival

Once a year, usually in April or May, The Corner transforms into Cornerland, a festival that brings together all the Cornerfriends for a day of music, good food, and that signature Corner energy 🎶. It’s the ultimate chance to connect with new friends, dive deep into the Corner experience, and indulge in a delicious barbecue that’s bound to satisfy!

Opening hours:

Monday till Thursday: 10:00 - 20:00 

Friday: 10:00 - 18:00

Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Contact:

📞 0473 66 32 72

the.corner@telenet.be

Location:

Kramersplein 1, 9000 Gent

Overpoort Bowl🎳 has been the place to be for a fun and sporty evening in the lively Overpoortstraat since 2000. Originally a taxi company 🚕  that was shut down in 1999. Overpoort Bowl is a charming café that offers several bowling lanes and pool tables. There's always something going on, from bowling to watching football together.

What makes this place so unique?

Overpoort Bowl stands out by offering an alternative form of entertainment. Students and young people can enjoy a fun evening bowling , playing pool , shuffleboard, table football , darts  or simply having a drink at relatively low prices. They also provide various student-friendly combo deals, such as €6 for two half liters and €8 for two rum and colas.  🍻🍻 

At the back of the café, there’s a cozy garden where smoking is allowed, and inside, there are two separate smoking areas 🚬. They regularly broadcast live football matches ⚽ on a big screen, especially during events like the European Championship, attracting many visitors. This place isn’t a club like many others in the street, making Overpoort Bowl the ideal spot to escape the busy clubs and vibrant nightlife in the area.

Opening hours:

Monday till Friday: 10:00 - 23:30

Saturday and Sunday: 14:00 - 23:30

Contact:

📞 09/224.24.18

info@overpoortbowl.be

Location:

Overpoortstraat 38, 9000 Gent

For anyone with a late-night craving, Ertan Smashburgers is the spot to be! Known for its unforgettable smashburgers, loaded fries 🍟, and even comfort classics like pasta 🍝.

What makes this place so unique?

Located in the heart of Overpoort, Ertan Smashburgers is THE spot for late-night cravings. Here, you’ll find the best smashburgers in town 🍔!

Ertan’s journey began across the street at Andromeda. But when the building across the street opened up, Ertan saw his chance to create something all on his own. That’s when he launched 't Hamburgertje bij Ertan, a go-to spot for students craving classic burgers and hot dogs 🌭.

The pandemic sparked some big changes. Ertan decided to change his menu, swapping out hot dogs for pasta. Ertan is the only place in Overpoort where you can grab a delicious, late-night pasta. 🍝

In September 2024, Ertan took things in a new direction and introduced Ertan Smashburgers!

Opening hours:

Monday till Sunday: 19:00 - 06:00 

Contact:

Ertan-bicici@hotmail.com 

Location:

Overpoortstraat 9, 9000 Gent

Looking for a spot to hang out with friends in Ghent? Café De Vagant is the perfect hangout for students. Whether you're a quiz enthusiast 🧠 or just in need of a refreshing beer 🍻 after class, this cozy café offers it all. 

What makes this place so unique?

Café De Vagant  is an ideal option for students who enjoy a casual vibe. On Sunday evenings, De Vagant turns into a quiz paradise, where the popular quiz nights fill up quickly. The questions are challenging and educational, so you not only test your general knowledge, but also go home with new facts to tell your friends! 🏆

In addition to the quiz evenings, De Vagant is also known for its pleasant snacks 🍟 and affordable drinks 🍷. Every afternoon around 4:00 PM you can come here for a beer at an affordable price, perfect for those who want to relax after classes. The café has a homely vibe with a mix of vintage decor and Belgian beer lists on the wall, which provides a truly authentic Belgian pub experience. 🍻

Opening hours:

Monday till Sunday: 19:00 - 06:00 

Contact:

📞0475 58 09 90

ronald@devagant.be 

Location:

Overpoortstraat 5, 9000 Gent

It all starts with Stefano himself, this local legend has an almost magical memory! He takes pride in remembering as much orders as he can. If you are a regular, chances are he is already preparing your order before you could speak!

Stefano's place also has a wide variety of vegan snacks 🌱, like vegan burgers, vegan corndog, vegan meat rolls and much more!

The absolute must-try here is definently the 'Gents Julientje'! 🔥 This snack isn't your ordinary portion of fries 🍟 - imagine crispy fries drowned in savory stew sauce, spicy satay sauce 🌶️, crunchy fried onions, AND pieces of viandel (a special meat sausage). It's literally a festival of flavors on your plate 🎉! This local favorite has become THE ultimate comfort food for both Ghent locals and students alike.

Opening hours:

Monday till Thursday: 17:00 - 05:00 

Friday: 17:00 - 22:00 

Saturday till Sunday: Closed

Contact:

stefanos_place@hotmail.com 

Location:

Overpoortstraat 12, 9000 Gent

And there you have it – your guide to the ultimate Overpoort experience! 🎉 Whether you’re new to Ghent or a seasoned student, these five spots are guaranteed to add flavor, fun, and unforgettable memories to your student life. Each place brings its own unique vibe, from late-night burgers at Ertan Smashburgers to friendly competition at Overpoort Bowl and cozy hangouts like De Vagant. Next time you’re in the mood for an adventure or just need a break from studying, you’ll know exactly where to go!

So grab your friends, head out to Overpoort, and make the most of Ghent's vibrant nightlife. Cheers to unforgettable nights! 🌙🥂