in Marchin – Belgium

Tucked away in the serene countryside of Marchin, Belgium, Arabelle Meirlaen’s restaurant is a destination that blends nature, creativity, and hospitality into a unique experience. Named after its visionary chef, Arabelle Meirlaen, the restaurant embodies her philosophy of intuitive cuisine, an approach deeply rooted in fresh, locally sourced ingredients and an ever-evolving connection to the land.

Upon arriving for lunch, guests are met with the quiet charm of a location that feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere—yet the ample parking space suggests the restaurant is no hidden secret. With a full house during this midday service, the staff welcomed guests warmly. The maître d’ and the team did their best to communicate in Dutch, a considerate touch given the restaurant’s location in the French-speaking region of Belgium.

Opting for the six- and seven-course menu, accompanied by a carefully curated selection of wines and aromatized waters, the experience unfolded in a balance of refined flavors and delicate compositions. Known for her dedication to vegetable-forward dishes, Arabelle still embraces the presence of fish and meat, creating a variety that appeals to diverse tastes. Most courses were light and harmonious, though one notably heavier dish stood out—an unexpected contrast that sometimes disrupts the flow of a multi-course meal.

The aromatized water pairings, a signature element of the restaurant, brought a mix of intriguing flavors. Some selections leaned towards bitterness, likely influenced by kephir, while the hot water pairing was a surprising choice that didn’t quite complement the dish it was intended for.

As the lunch drew to a close, a final touch added to the experience—a small jar of salt and a bottle of sponsored water for the drive home. A gesture that reflects the restaurant’s attention to detail and commitment to leaving a lasting impression on its guests.

Despite holding an impressive 18 rating on Gault & Millau for nearly a decade, it remains a mystery why Michelin has yet to award Arabelle Meirlaen her second star. Comparing her work to other two-star establishments across Belgium, the distinction seems well deserved. Yet, regardless of accolades, what truly defines this restaurant is the journey it offers—one where nature, creativity, and dedication come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Chef: Arabelle Meirlaen
Date of visit: February 18th 2024
Website: https://arabelle.be/
Michelin: 1 star
Gault & Millau: 18
La Liste: 82