Wannes Raps: Delightfully Eccentric Bistronomie with Character
In 2012, Diest gained a culinary hotspot: Wannes Raps. This bistro is the project of chef and owner Erwin Bruyninkx, a self-taught chef who opened the bistro after a career behind the scenes at Woestijnvis.
The restaurant is located in an old, classy building on Schaffensestraat. The name of the bistro refers to the illustrious history of the building and the figure Wannes Raps. In the late 19th century, the life-loving craftsman Wannes stopped here for a few jenever drinks, which turned out to be his last, as he passed away that day. This character is also a familiar face from the former series Wij, Heren van Zichem and the classic novel by Ernest Claes.
Inside, the drawings and sayings on the walls (by Wim Opbrouck) reference this history. The interior is calm, homely, and nostalgic, with marble tables alternating with wood and art deco elements.
Years later, Bistro Wannes Raps has become a place for craftspeople and hedonists like the late Wannes. Homemade dishes are at the heart of the menu, which is intentionally limited. There is a choice of four starters, main courses, and desserts. A three-course menu costs 40 euros, and the two-course lunch changes weekly (20 euros).
Homemade wild pâté with game from friendly hunters, confiting lemons, fermenting sauerkraut, or smoking mackerel—Erwin is a craftsman. His homemade shrimp croquettes have become a local legend, even beyond Diest. Other staples include steak tartare and Dame Blanche with a salty twist.
The menu changes regularly, with Erwin focusing on classic ingredients but adding his own twist and global influences. Dishes such as osso buco ravioli, bouchot mussels with chorizo and lovage, black pepper beef noodles with edamame, lime-yuzu tarts, secreto iberico with green organic asparagus from Gingelom, or fregola with butternut and trompette de la mort have all appeared on the menu. The portions are generous, the plating simple, and the flavors rich.
The wine list mirrors the essence of the dishes. A limited selection of wines (and winemakers) with character and flavor is available by the glass or bottle. Special attention is given to local winemakers and brewers, with products from Antidoot and Domein Rijnrode.
Wannes Raps is delightfully eccentric bistronomy “pur sang” with character.
Words: Pieter Declercq
