in Zedelgem, Belgium

Nestled in the charming village of Zedelgem, just a short drive from Bruges, Bar Bulot Zedelgem occupies the historic Hertog Jan building—a landmark steeped in culinary prestige. Surrounded by manicured gardens and a tranquil terrace, the setting marries rural serenity with understated sophistication, making it an inviting destination for diners seeking a taste of classic elegance.

Bar Bulot’s story is as thoughtful as its surroundings. Launched in 2019 by Gert De Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens—the acclaimed duo behind the former three‑Michelin‑starred Hertog Jan—the concept began as a summer pop‑up before evolving into a permanent celebration of French brasserie culture. Today, the kitchen is led by chef Destin Cannaert, whose formative years under De Mangeleer instilled a philosophy of precision, craft, and modern reinvention. His experience across Belgium’s most respected kitchens shapes a style rooted firmly in tradition yet always open to reinterpretation.

That balance of heritage and creativity is evident throughout the dining experience. The approach remains reassuringly classical—bread placed directly on the table with butter, salt, and pepper, for instance—though the absence of a bread plate may surprise some guests. The garnaal kroket stands out for its exceptionally creamy interior, a testament to careful technique. Both types of croquettes, however, are served on a small paper liner, a gesture likely intended for consistency across courses (even the madeleine follows this format). Still, the presence of such a casual element in an otherwise refined setting feels slightly unexpected for a restaurant of this caliber.

A similar interplay between tradition and surprise appears in the steak tartare. While admirably clean in flavor, the addition of bicky onions introduces an unconventional twist that may not resonate with all diners. The dish’s purity invites just a touch more brightness or heat—an acidic lift or subtle spiciness that could elevate its balance.

These nuances reflect the broader philosophy at Bar Bulot: a kitchen that honors brasserie classics while confidently making them its own. The result is a dining experience marked by craft, character, and a willingness to push gently against expectations—a modern brasserie shaped by deep culinary heritage, set within one of Belgium’s most storied gastronomic addresses.

Chef: Destin Cannaert
Date of visit: February 12th 2026
Website: https://barbulot.be/
Michelin: 1 star (lost their star a few months later)
Gault & Millau: 14