in Jodoigne – Belgium
Tucked away in the charming town of Jodoigne, Aux Petits Oignons is a hidden gem that food lovers will want to discover. Led by chef Stéphane Lefèbvre—who’s cooked in some of Belgium’s top kitchens like L’Air Du Temps, L’Eau Vive, and L’Essentiel—this restaurant strikes a perfect balance between classic techniques and creative flair. Since opening in 2008, it’s built a strong reputation for quality, seasonal ingredients, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
On our latest visit, we got to try a seasonal menu built around two standout ingredients: lobster and asparagus. What made it really interesting was how the chefs paired these with unexpected flavors like melon and strawberries. The sweet, fruity notes played beautifully with the rich lobster and earthy asparagus—surprising combinations that somehow just worked. It was refreshing, light, and full of personality.
One of the highlights of the evening was meeting Sebastien, the pastry chef. Not only were his desserts visually stunning, but they also had incredible depth of flavor. What made the experience extra special was his willingness to chat about the dishes, listen to feedback, and talk about ways he might tweak flavors going forward. It’s rare to see that kind of openness and passion—it really added a personal touch to the meal.
That said, there were a few small service details that could use a bit more polish. Things like regularly refilling water glasses and clearing bread crumbs before dessert might seem minor, but they can make a big difference in the overall experience. As for the food, while the flavors were generally spot-on, a few dishes could have used just a bit more punch—maybe a stronger hit of vanilla in the asparagus ice cream or a tiny bit of chili heat to kick things up a notch.
On the service side, Virginie Charlier runs the front-of-house with warmth and professionalism. The staff were attentive and kind, creating an inviting vibe that makes you want to linger. Over the years, the restaurant has grown while staying true to its roots—exploring new ideas through themed menus while always honoring the seasons and quality ingredients.
If you’re looking for a dining experience that combines skillful cooking, creative flavor pairings, and genuinely friendly service, *Aux Petits Oignons* should be on your list. Whether you’re there for a special occasion or just curious to see what the chefs are up to, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression.
Chef: Stéphane Lefèbvre
Date of visit: June 9th 2025
Website: https://www.auxpetitsoignons.be/
Michelin: 1 star
Gault & Millau: 15
