No.37 – De Librije

Ever fancied eating in a 15th century Dominican abbey? Then De Librije, located in the former abbey’s library (hence the name), is for you. For a real sense of history, book the ‘kitchen table’ in the atmospheric, vaulted kitchen below. But don’t be fooled by the building’s austere heritage. The three Michelin star De Librije offers a luxurious dining experience, whether in the kitchen, the main library restaurant or the first floor Salon, a private dining room with room enough for 36 guests. Husband and wife team Jonnie Boer, who runs the kitchen, and Thérèse Boer-Tausch, who oversees the front of house, grew up in the area and sourcing local ingredients is central to the restaurant’s philosophy.

So is an emphasis on purity and simplicity. “Fewer flavours often enhance a dish, and make a better match than a mixture of many,” says Jonnie. It might be ‘simple’ but this is imaginative cuisine, nonetheless, as displayed in dishes such as Langoustines with Oloroso Mayonnaise, Cucumber and Horseradish, or a deconstructed Apple Pie, its constituent parts served separately in a wooden box. Weather permitting, apertifs and digestifs are served on the wonderful terrace, with views of the old Medieval wall and the monastery church. This is both a restaurant and a retreat.