Issue No. 25

ART: Gare Saint Sauveur
One of the things I love about Lille is the
way abandoned but spectacular buildings
are converted into cultural venues. Gare
Saint Sauveur, a former freight station
built in 1861, is now an inspirational
space where regular events, art
exhibitions and performances are hosted.
It houses a cinema, bar and restaurant,
gardens and a summer pop up bar. The
huge warehouses are perfect for
showcasing art and I loved how the
railway tracks were still in situ, a
reminder of the past fixed in the present.
It’s also one of the main Lille3000
venues, the legendary tri-annual, 9-
month long art festival which takes place
in the streets and public buildings of Lille
city and surrounding districts.
EAT: Bistrot de Saint So
Bistrot de Saint So is part of the Gare Saint-
Sauveur complex and is a great way to mix art
and food. When you’ve finished feasting on
the art in the former station, head to the very
chic restaurant and enjoy some seriously good
dishes. This place is super popular with the
locals for lunch (Wednesday – Sunday) so
make sure you book in advance on their
Facebook page and enjoy dining on the
fabulous large terrace watched over by a giant
baby with a tail, or in the chic interior. I’m not
sure the food makes your “hair sparkle” as
they claim (with a big smile) but with
fantastically tasty salads and a seasonal menu,
I think they might just be right! It’s also open
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights for a
trendy night of music with DJs and live
performances, plus funky cocktails. .facebook.
com/bistrotdestso