The Gentse Feesten are once again bringing a vibrant atmosphere to the city, and this year, the popular Eetcafé Toreke pop-up is back in Steendam for the fifth consecutive year. Known for combining social impact with great food, the Toreke pop-up offers visitors a unique dining experience during the festivities. On 2025-07-22 00:00:00, locals and tourists alike can enjoy fresh, wholesome meals in a welcoming setting.
- Eetcafé Toreke returns annually to Steendam
- Offers fresh daily dishes with social pricing
- Serves mezze, enchilada, pasta at varied costs
- Attracts mixed crowd including tourists and locals
- Collaborates with Proveg for plant-based options
- Operates daily during Gentse Feesten, 11-21h
Unlike typical festival snacks, Toreke serves daily fresh dishes like mezze platters, Mexican enchiladas, and pasta alla puttanesca. Prices range from €16 to €19, but the café also provides affordable options at €3.50 or €5 for those in need, reflecting its strong community focus. This approach raises an interesting question: how can social enterprises thrive during large public events while appealing to a diverse crowd?
With such a blend of quality food and social values, Toreke’s presence at the Gentse Feesten is more than just a pop-up—it’s a statement. Let’s explore what makes this initiative stand out.
What drives Toreke’s continued success at the festival? It’s the combination of social mission and culinary appeal that resonates with a mixed audience. Key factors include:
- Affordable pricing with social tariffs ensures accessibility for all visitors.
- A diverse menu featuring fresh, homemade meals appeals beyond typical festival fare.
- Collaboration with Proveg promotes plant-based options, attracting health-conscious diners.
- The unique Steendam location draws both tourists and regulars, enriching the community vibe.
As the Gentse Feesten continue to evolve, initiatives like the Toreke pop-up demonstrate how social dining concepts can enrich the festival experience. Will other cities adopt similar models? For now, visitors are encouraged to stop by Steendam and enjoy a meal that feeds both body and community spirit.
