Convento Wijnbistro

Convento Wijnbistro is a unique and deeply personal dining destination in the heart of Leuven, rooted in a passionate wine culture that has grown from a small wine shop into one of Belgium’s most celebrated wine-dining concepts. Since its acquisition in 2023 by sommeliers Tom De Praetère and Olivier Pareit, Convento has further cemented its reputation as one of the city’s most exciting establishments. Recognised by the MICHELIN Guide and Gault&Millau, Convento also holds the Sustainable Wine List award and the Best Medium Wine List of the Year distinction from Star Wine List. The wine shop, integrated directly into the dining room, houses over 600 references representing exceptional European producers, with a particular focus on natural and biodynamic wines. Chef Jens Maertens anchors the culinary programme with a daily-changing market-driven menu that honours seasonal Belgian produce. Starters of smoked mackerel with sour cream, kale, and puffed buckwheat might precede a rosé-cooked duck breast with mandarin jus and carrot cream. The low corkage fee encourages guests to explore the wine shop, creating an unusually interactive and educational atmosphere. Convento is closed Monday through Wednesday, and open Thursday through Saturday for both lunch and dinner.