Fine Fleur — Restaurant in Antwerp

Michelin one-star well-deserved.

European fine dining—no matter how many times I try, there’s always something new. On my first visit to Belgium, I was on the hunt for a true Dutch fine dining experience, and Fine Fleur checked all the boxes. Dutch fine dining is a bit of a culinary chameleon, hard to pin down since there’s no strict playbook that defines it. It’s a relatively new concept, more about creative expression using local ingredients than adhering to tradition. In this case, it was all about fresh, pristine seafood, showcasing the best of Dutch flavors with a pan-Asian twist.

At Fine Fleur, seafood and acidity took center stage. Every seafood course was either poached or lightly seared, which allowed the natural flavors to shine, while acidity stepped in as the star enhancer. It came in all forms and textures—jelly, foam, purée, pickled veggies and fruits, sauces, and of course, the wines. The brilliance of the meal was in the balance: every acidic note was softened by a subtle touch of sweetness, whether from the earthy natural sugars of beets, the richness of pumpkin slices, or the refreshing twist of coconut ceviche. This harmony kept the entire course feeling dynamic and far from repetitive.

What I appreciated most was that Fine Fleur didn’t play it too safe. Each dish had a subtle Pan-Asian twist, adding an extra layer of excitement—drawing influences from Southeast Asian, Indian, and Japanese flavors. One standout was the main course’s veal reduction sauce, infused with Malaysian spices that brought a fragrant basil kick and a whole lot of intrigue.

Overall, Fine Fleur felt like the perfect introduction to European fine dining, with just the right dash of innovation wrapped in a Dutch jacket. Their menu changes monthly, so what’s true today might not be on the table next month—but their core philosophy remains steady: a focus on acidity and fresh, natural ingredients. If you're seeking one of the top dining experiences in Antwerp, Fine Fleur is a must-visit. Trust me, it’s worth...

Dining at Fine Fleur feels like stepping into an elegant culinary symphony, where every dish is a movement composed of freshness, depth, and creativity.

The meal opened with a visually striking cylindrical avocado and tomato, delivering bright, creamy, and tangy notes. Scallop with shiso and black truffle danced between delicate sweetness and deep umami, while the mushroom kombu and salmon cucumber horseradish played with texture and a subtle, lingering heat. The truffle celeriac macadamia promised pure, silky indulgence.

Moving into mains, the North Sea cod with mussel and smoked artichoke layered delicate flavors with a whisper of smoke, with the optional caviar upgrade adding a luxurious touch. The turbot with potato, tarragon, and buttermilk balanced richness with herbal freshness, while the deer with braised red cabbage and blood orange packed a bold, hearty contrast (and I don’t like deer usually).

Desserts kept things refined yet exciting—baked foie, madong, and juniper quince pushed boundaries with its daring richness before the apple with kaffir and sudachi refreshed the palate with a bright, citrusy lift.

Service? Friendly and professional—but shockingly inattentive to time. I had a clear 1 hour 45-minute limit, which they completely overlooked, only realizing two hours in and by the way, the entire meal ended at almost 3 hours. Lucky for them (and me), my train was delayed. Otherwise, the lunch would have ended in a frantic, frustrating rush instead of a satisfied glow. For a fine dining restaurant, that kind of awareness should be a given.

Food? Flawless. But the lack of attentiveness left me wishing the front-of-house matched the precision of...

Dining at Fine Fleur was an absolute culinary masterpiece! From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, where elegance meets warmth. The interior is beautifully designed, creating the perfect ambiance for a high-end dining experience. The tasting menu was a true work of art—every dish was meticulously plated and offered a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The use of seasonal, high-quality ingredients was evident in every bite. I particularly loved the delicate seafood courses, which were fresh and bursting with flavor, and the succulent main course, which was cooked to absolute perfection. The desserts were light, refined, and the perfect ending to an exquisite meal. ✅ Pros: Exquisite food, flawless service, stunning presentation, elegant atmosphere. ❌ Cons: A fine dining experience, so prices are premium—but absolutely worth it. If you're looking for an unforgettable gastronomic journey in Antwerp, Fine Fleur is a must-visit. This restaurant is pure excellence, and I can’t...