in Averbode – Belgium
<p>Colette – De Vijvers is a distinguished restaurant located in Averbode, Belgium. Since its opening on January 21, 2016, it has established itself as a notable presence in the culinary world. The restaurant’s name pays homage to Colette Leemans, the grandmother of chef Thijs Vervloet. Colette herself was the daughter of a cook who worked for the princely De Merode family and later ran a catering business with her mother. This deep-rooted family connection to gastronomy laid the foundation for the restaurant’s philosophy.</p>
<p>Chef Thijs Vervloet received his initial culinary training from his grandmother before pursuing formal education at Hotelschool Ter Duinen. His career took him through prestigious kitchens, including Hof ter Hulst in Hulshout, Magis in Tongeren, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Paris, and ‘t Fornuis and ‘t Zilte in Antwerp, where he served as sous-chef. His talent and dedication earned him recognition as Young Chef of the Year for Flanders in 2019.</p>
<p>Originally located in Westerlo, Colette moved to its current setting at De Vijvers in Averbode during the summer of 2020. The transition provided an opportunity for growth, allowing the restaurant to expand its vision while maintaining its commitment to excellence.</p>
<p>Upon arriving at Colette – De Vijvers, the beautiful park setting immediately sets the tone for the experience. The restaurant itself feels almost like an extension of the landscape, with large windows offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding greenery and the peaceful pond.</p>
<p>Once seated, Chef Thijs Vervloet came by to introduce the menu—at least, that was what we expected. His explanation focused solely on the signature menu, leaving us curious about the market menu, which is available for lunch on weekdays. When we asked about it, his response was vague, prompting us to inquire a second time to understand what was included. If a restaurant offers two menus, it seems only fair to provide clear information on both. And if the intention is to steer diners toward a specific choice, perhaps it would be better not to offer alternatives at all.</p>
<p>Despite the hesitation in presentation, we opted for the market menu. The ingredients used were of excellent quality, though the preparations felt somewhat simple and familiar. It seemed that the true effort was directed towards the signature menu rather than the market menu, leaving us with the impression that one received more attention than the other.</p>
<p>Dining experiences are shaped by more than just the food—they encompass the atmosphere, service, and overall engagement with the concept of the restaurant. Colette – De Vijvers offers a picturesque location and a strong culinary heritage, but clarity and balance in its offerings could enhance the experience further.
</p>
<br>
Chef: Thijs Vervloet<br>
Date of visit: June 2nd 2023<br>
Website: https://restaurantcolette.be/en/<br>
Michelin: 2 stars<br>
Gault & Millau: 16.5<br>
<br>
