The restaurant of the future is located on Bollandusstraat in Antwerp. Bar Pêche is the type of restaurant where you’ll want to dine at least once a month. It’s run by a duo of thick friends, one of whom masterfully handles the kitchen, while the other is the best host you can imagine. With about twenty seats in a contemporary, no-nonsense setting, a few seats at a compact counter with a view into the kitchen, a shelf with both classic and natural wines, and a cozy boutique terrace when the weather is nice.
Semmy Roumans and Esger Van Lysebetten met through each other’s partners, both have Limburg roots, and share the same culinary vision.
Chef Semmy learned the culinary craft at both L’Amitié and Veranda and now puts his own unique twist on it. Every five weeks, the Bar Pêche menu rotates, featuring three starters, three main courses, and an equal number of desserts.
There’s always one creation with fish, one with meat, and one vegetarian option.
Beets are served with labneh and chickpeas (€16), cockles paired with samphire and dashi (€19). The combination of pastrami, sauerkraut, and mustard (€19) is a match made in heaven.
Or consider the ravioli with mushrooms and cauliflower (€26), the red bass with potatoes and radicchio (€29), or the onglet with smoked potatoes and béarnaise sauce (€29.50).
For dessert, the menu offers choices such as sabayon, dame blanche, or a selection of cheeses matured by the Van Tricht family.
By this point, as a guest, you’ve likely already been introduced to Esger. It’s increasingly rare to find hosts who combine empathy and passion in such a discreet yet genuinely warm manner. Be sure to ask for guidance in selecting drinks. Esger ensures that Semmy’s “seasonal dishes with heart” are perfectly complemented with the right glass of wine.
It’s no wonder that Bar Pêche is the favorite of Celebrity MasterChef winner and radio icon Linde Merckpoel!