Restaurant Nathan (1* Antwerp): where visual storytelling goes hand in hand with real taste explosions

Antwerp, Belgium – Restaurant Nathan has made a name for itself in the culinary world since it received its first Michelin star in 2019. The brainchild of chef Nathan Van Echelpoel and his partner Eva Van de Peer, the restaurant offers a unique culinary experience that combines perfection and simplicity with seasonal produce of the highest quality.

Chef Nathan Van Echelpoel has created creative French-Belgian cuisine infused with Asian influences. He constantly searches for the perfect balance of flavours, textures and presentation. Each dish is carefully crafted and showcases the best of each ingredient.

For Eva Van de Peer, the guest experience is central to restaurant success. She is also a sommelier and finds it a challenge to find the perfect wine pairing with each dish. Her selections often surprise guests with unexpected but perfectly complementary flavours. We were able to experience first-hand what sublime wine pairings she had in store for us.

The tone is immediately set when Eva serves a delicious rosé champagne to accompany the exquisite appetisers, Jean Diot’s Extase Rosée, which in addition to a beautiful floral bouquet also stands out for its gastronomic character.

When we are served a very successful combination of North Sea crab, Earl Grey and Yoghurt at the appetiser, we immediately know we are in the right place. This flavour bomb is a wonderful opener: it has the right balance between the creaminess of the crab and the sourness of the yoghurt.

The extreme sophistication also continues in the second dish with the cod accompanied by broccoli and an airy goat cheese sauce. Again an absolute hit and a treat for the eye.

When the menu states that the main course is pigeon, we first draw reservations. Pigeon is not exactly yours truly’s favourite dish. But my fears proved completely unjustified: the pigeon is sublimely cooked so that it really melts away in the mouth. At the same time, we were enormously impressed by the textures of this dish with a nice crunch in it and the necessary acidity provided by the blackberries. And what then of the perfect pairing by hostess Eva who set high standards with her Belgian wine suggestion of Bon Baron.

To complete the culinary feast, a delicious dessert is served with chocolate, a fresh sauce of kiwi, topped off with a sea salt. Top.

Each dish was not only visually stunning, but also had exceptional flavours and textures carefully balanced to create a unique dining experience. The wine pairings with each dish were equally impressive, with selections from Languedoc, Austria and Belgium.

The atmosphere at Restaurant Nathan is warm and inviting, with a minimalist décor that puts the food centre stage. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and attentive, making guests feel right at home as soon as they enter.

In conclusion, Restaurant Nathan is a culinary gem in the heart of Antwerp. With its fusion of French-Belgian cuisine and Asian influences, exceptional wine pairings and warm atmosphere, it is no wonder this restaurant has earned its Michelin star. For those looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience, Restaurant Nathan is a must-visit destination.

Practical:

Address: Lange Koepoortstraat 13, 2000 Antwerp

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