in Lommel – Belgium

Cuchara, located in Lommel, Belgium, is a restaurant that offers a unique and immersive dining experience. The name, which means “spoon” in Spanish, is a nod to its location on Lepelstraat, where chef Jan Tournier opened the restaurant in 2009 in a stately family home. Over the years, Cuchara has evolved, moving to its current space in 2015, where its minimalist and artistic interior enhances the overall experience.

Chef Jan Tournier trained in classic French cuisine, beginning his career with placements at the Antwerp Hilton and later refining his skills under Roger Van Damme at Het Gebaar. His time there helped him develop a modern approach to cooking, which became the foundation for his own restaurant. Since opening Cuchara, Tournier has gained recognition for his creative and balanced dishes, earning his first Michelin star five years after launching and a second in 2019.

The restaurant’s design reflects Tournier’s appreciation for nature and art, with high windows bringing in natural light and a striking glass sculpture serving as a centerpiece. The dark, almost monochrome aesthetic, designed by Kathleen Simons alongside Tournier, adds to the sense of immersion, making Cuchara more than just a place to eat—it is an experience.

After seeing a television program featuring Cuchara, we were intrigued and decided to visit. The restaurant’s striking black interior made an immediate impression, enhancing the anticipation for the meal ahead.

The lunch menu showcased the culinary skill of chef Jan Tournier, though certain elements of the experience were unexpected. The waitstaff, for instance, seemed uncertain about what they were serving, at one point describing a dish with meat when, in fact, we had been given fish. While such miscommunication is not necessarily a major issue, it is not what one expects from an establishment of this caliber.

Another moment of hesitation came from the sommelier, who appeared displeased that I did not drink wine and that my guest only opted for a single glass. However, when we asked about the Lebanese wine that accompanied one of the dishes, the demeanor shifted, and suddenly, enthusiasm replaced indifference.

Limburg, the province where Cuchara is located, is known for its welcoming people, and we had anticipated that warmth during our visit. Unfortunately, it was not something we particularly felt. While the restaurant offers an artistic dining experience, for taste and hospitality, other options in Limburg—even those with just one star—may provide a more well-rounded visit.

Chef: Jan Tournier
Date of visit: May 19th 2023
Website: https://cuchara.be/en/
Michelin: 2 stars
Gault & Millau: 17.5
La Liste: 82