Out Bruges

The medieval town of Bruges is a haven for foodies- maybe not so much for Colin Farrell- with no fewer than 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. And if you take a quick twenty minute drive, you will end up at the freshly minted 3 Michelin-starred Hertog Jan, in Zedelgem, just outside Bruges. Thirty three year old chef- one of he youngest three-star chefs in Europe- Gert de Mangeleer and super star sommelier Joachim Boudens are at the helm of this gastronomic success story. In 2005 they took over Brasserie Hertog Jan, and today they welcome discerning diners in a unique setting next to their new farm in the same location, that allows them to grow their own vegetables, fruits and flowers. After a four year renovation Hertog Jan reopened in July 2014, in what was a 180-year old barn that has been completely redesigned inside while retaining some of the original features. The kitchen is situated under the old barn roof, and the dining room looks out over the extensive vegetable garden.

Peace of mind and harmony with nature and seasonality seems to be the mission statement of de Mangeleer and Boudens inside their beautiful  space, where the modern, clean lines and surrounding beauty doesn’t overwhelm the refined simplicity of each dish. When you first arrive at Hertog Jan, you are encouraged to walk the grounds before sitting down to dinner. When you arrive at your table, even your handbag has a seat too…or rather a stool- as every Balenciaga clutch should have. You’re given the option to order a la carte or do the chef’s menu, but before you decide on your meal you are presented with an array of incredible starters that are all part of the experience. The dessert cart is heavy on the chocolate, which comes as no surprise given you’re in Belgium, and there are almost as many servers as diners which makes for impeccable service, so you- and your Balenciaga- can feel like a Princess. hertog-jan.com