CULINARY GEM IN BEERNEM
In the past, d’Afspanning was a place where both travelers and their animals could rest and regain their strength for the journey ahead. Today, d’Afspanning is the culinary bistro-restaurant of Joost Meire and Heidi Dewitte. The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century protected building in Beernem. The duo spent years on the renovation, and the result is nothing short of stunning. Now, more than five years since its opening, d’Afspanning has firmly placed Beernem on the culinary map.
The spacious restaurant offers multiple dining areas, blending rustic, authentic elements with modern touches. This creates a warm, inviting, yet contemporary atmosphere. The cozy voutekamer (vaulted room) is perfect for an aperitif, and in good weather, the terrace is especially appealing.
Chef Joost Meire honed his skills in top establishments such as Oud Sluis and now brings his own interpretation of contemporary French-Belgian cuisine. The menu features national dishes with a focus on often-forgotten ingredients. Some standout examples include tempura of petit-gris snails with remoulade and celery root cream with slow-cooked egg yolk, or sea bass with lardo di Colonnata, parsnip, crispy pork snout croquette, pomme paille, and thyme-bacon beurre blanc.
Hostess Heidi ensures attentive and welcoming service.
The ingredients are recognizable yet uncommon, treated with great respect, and transformed into flavorful creations. Guests can choose from à la carte dishes or opt for the three-course suggestion menu (€42.50). The restaurant also offers a two- or three-course lunch (€20.00 or €27.00), which comes highly recommended. The wine list is fairly priced and includes several excellent selections.
Reservations are strongly recommended.
