Issue No. 25

ART: Vielle Bourse
Head to la Vielle Bourse, the former stock
exchange, built in 1623. The courtyard hosts
a second-hand book market (Tues-Sun,
afternoons) on stalls under a vaulted
walkway, alongside walls lined with fabulous
carved friezes and sculptures. If you’re there
on a Sunday night in the summer, join in the
tango dancing under the stars.
EAT: L’Atelier des Chefs
Cook your own lunch or dinner with a chef
tutor. At L’Atelier des Chefs offers you’ll
improve your skills as you create a classic
dish from scratch in just 30 minutes. You
then get to enjoy eating your masterpiece at
this fun cookery school. Great for
individuals, couples and friends. Lunch time
cooking course €17 Euros; gourmet dinner
course lesson (one hour) where you’ll make
a main course and dessert €38. Booking in
advance is essential.
ART: Tri Postal
Located in the former postal sorting
office, it’s neither a museum or art centre
but a place of art and life say the staff.
Temporary exhibitions, performances and
workshops are held in this dynamic and
exciting cultural venue.
EAT: Coke
Coke restaurant in the ex-offices of the
old Mining Company of Lens, hence the
name. It’s a majestic building designed by
archi-tect Louis-Marie Cordonnier.
Upstairs is an elegant, chandeliered dining
room, down-stairs is modern and arty and
a retractable glass roof makes it great for
sunny days. Bold, playful and clever food
is on the menu from a talented team
working in a glass-fronted kitchen. It’s
also a great venue for an aperitif with a
swanky cocktail bar and music on Friday
nights.