新港渔夫之家

The washing hanging from the ceiling is a reminder of the former laundromat that has morphed into a hip eatery firmly part of Nieuwpoort’s culinary scene. The menu features mouth-watering dishes served in small and large portions, flanked by a fine wine list. Unfussy recipes, often prepared à la minute, such as grilled brill with Belgian endive, velvety mash potatoes and a flavoursome shrimp sauce.

Fire is central to everything at this cosy home restaurant run by hostess Hermien and chef Arno. They have devised a set menu comprising five to six courses, showcasing local produce from the land and the sea. The chef imbues venison fillet with a distinct smoky flavour and serves it with a colourful red cabbage accompaniment. Fillet of Steenvoorde pigeon comes with a rich jus and a confit leg. Rest assured: this young couple knows how to show their diners a good time.

Mattias Maertens and Sofie Billiet have lovingly transformed what used to be a small factory into their HQ. The resulting modern, airy interior provides the perfect foil to sample the chef’s no-nonsense culinary lineup. Each ingredient is expressed vividly and flanked by side dishes that embody the chef’s inventive streak and are scattered with international notes. Only the best gets a look-in on his menu, from the market-fresh produce to the catch from local boats. Save room for the addictive desserts, such as an extravaganza of white chocolate mousse and dark chocolate ice cream, whose sweet

After globetrotting around the world, Kelly and Pieter have finally returned home. They have taken over and refurbished a pretty villa, breathing new life into what was something of a local institution. A quick glance at the menu reveals the importance they give to delicacies from the North Sea and the polders in food that is both pared-back and spot on. An example of the chef’s talent for showcasing the main ingredient is illustrated by fantastically fresh North Sea crab paired with crunchy kohlrabi, soft, oven-fresh bread and a punchy tomato consommé. Marquize is once again in the limelight