After a pop-up in Kortrijk and one in Ghent, chef Thomas Gellynck and sommelier-partner Lara De Vlieger felt it was time for a permanent location. They found it opposite the De Rozenbroeken swimming pool in Ghent.
The building was transformed by architect Merijn Degraeve into a light-filled oasis surrounded by greenery, woods, and a large terrace. The interior is inspired by Japanese minimalist style and features raw, natural elements. In the center of the room stands the open kitchen, where chef Thomas frequently cooks over an open flame.
Thomas’s style is just like the interior: simple, bold, and flavorful. Seasonal, local, organic, and homemade are core values of his kitchen. Strawberry is served with fennel and sorrel, goat cheese with fresh herbs and fermented chili. Celeriac is roasted and served with Old Bellie cheese, beurre noisette, and yogurt. Thomas serves Skrei with wild garlic, spinach, and sake.
Sommelier and hostess Lara pours bold natural wines, available by the glass and bottle. They are also not shy about special and surprising pairings. Their motto is: share the food, dare the drinks.
The lunch menu is priced at €25 (2 courses) and €30 (3 courses). In the evening, there is only a five-course menu at €58, with the option to add an extra signature dish with Imperial Heritage Caviar (€25).
Commotie is rock ‘n roll bistronomie.
Words: Pieter Declercq
