Polly doesn’t mess around when it comes to coffee! Don’t expect any flashy, Instagrammable decor at this family affair launched by Kato Avondts, ex-barista at Butchers Coffee, and her sister Paulien (Polly, to her friends), over on Cuperusstraat, just behind Berchem train station. Instead, you’ll find some of the best coffee in the city, served in a space that plays the minimalist, black-and-white card, where a display of fresh cakes, cookies and croissants from Domestic bakery sit proudly on the counter display. The day we went, we enjoyed on the sunny terrace: a frothy oat matcha latte with a slice of black sesame cake – subtle, silky and the perfect pairing for soaking up the sun. No rushing, no hastily gulped coffee, just Polly – which is exactly what we needed! · Saffron Edge

THE HIDDEN GEM: The chocolate pumpkin cake coated in a delicious sugar glaze.