Couvert Couvert — Restaurant in Leuven

Couvert Couvert, Heverlee » My (last) visit: Feb 2024 » Total score: 4.5/5 – good to very good » In a nutshell: I would rate the food and the accompanying beverages (i.e. the wine pairing and also a non-alcoholic pairing) as still very good. In my opinion, the quality of the dishes deviated strikingly. For example, I would describe an intermediate course with cod as simple and somewhat ordinary. On the other hand, I found some of the courses very good or even outstanding, especially the confiserie. 1|103|60

My ratings for this gourmet restaurant in detail:

●● Service – 4.6/5 – still very good: ● Hospitality, friendliness, obligingness, etc.: 4.6/5 ● Atmosphere, temper, facilitation, etc.: 4.5/5

●● Food – 4.6/5 – still very good: ● Flavors (range, depth, composition, harmony/balance, etc.): 4.7/5 ● Level (thoroughness, craftsmanship, originality, exclusivity, variety of impressions, consistency/diversity, etc.): 4.5/5 ● Choices: 4.0/5

●● Beverages, mainly the wines – 4.6/5 – still very good: ● Taste (depth/range, length, complexity, balance, accessibility, elegance, intensity/subtlety, etc.): 4.5/5 ● Level (variety/novelty of impressions, consistency/diversity, exclusivity, etc.): 4.7/5 ● Did the beverages (mainly the wines) match the dishes?: 4.6/5 ● Choices: 4.7/5

●● Presentation of the food – 4.3/5 – good: ● Textures and (differences in) temperatures: 4.6/5 ● Colors and decorations: 4.4/5 ● Timing and sequencing as well as sizes of portions: 4.6/5 ● Special effects (positionings, DIY-effects, sculptural or thematic elements, surprises, color and motion effects, fake effects, olfactory effects, fog or smoke effects, etc.): 3.6/5 ● Procedures at and around the table (attunements and explanations, elements added/changed, service and staffing intensity, involvement of kitchen team, orchestrated dish presentations, preparations and dishes (partially) built up at the table, etc.): 4.3/5

●● Presentation of beverages, mainly the wines – 4.1/5 – still good: ● Procedures at and around the table (explanations and attunements, etc.): 3.7/5 ● Quantities poured as well as timing in relation to the dishes: 4.6/5

●● Premises and location – 4.4/5 – good to very good: ● Accessibility, surroundings and - as applicable - the view: 4.6/5 ● How did I like the room or - as applicable - outdoor area’s style, decor and atmosphere?: 4.7/5 ● Well-being (space, privacy, temperature, ventilation/odors, lighting, soundscape, sanitary facilities, etc.): 4.1/5

●● Price – 4.8/5 – very good: ● Price-performance ratio for food: 4.8/5 ● Price-performance ratio for wines and other beverages: 4.7/5 ● Price transparency and correspondence of the expected to the actual price (simple, complete and unambiguous price information on the restaurant's website and in the menu,...

My recent dining experience at this restaurant was a mix of highs and lows. We arrived 20 minutes late for our reservation, which understandably might have caused some inconvenience. However, the way this was communicated to us felt somewhat unwelcoming. A gentle reminder or a more understanding approach would have made a significant difference.

The restaurant’s ambiance is a highlight, boasting a beautiful and modern design. This contemporary setting contrasts interestingly with the food, which offers a classical twist - a delightful fusion of styles. The food was exceptional overall, with the desserts standing out as particularly memorable.

While the wine pairing was good, it didn’t leave a lasting impression. Perhaps a more curated selection to complement the dishes could enhance the dining experience.

Service plays a crucial role in any high-end restaurant. Although efficient, a warmer, more personable approach from the staff would have greatly enriched our experience. As someone who frequently dines at top-tier restaurants worldwide, I believe that small touches in service can significantly elevate a guest’s experience.

I hold this restaurant in high regard and offer these comments in the hope that they contribute to further enhancing the experience for future guests. Maintaining a progressive and guest-focused approach is key to staying relevant in the ever-evolving...

We had an outstanding evening in this top restaurant! Went for the 7 course menu with matching wines and were blown away. The somelier had done an excellent job. Each course was accompanied by a glass of wine that sincerely could be considered as an extension of what was served on the plate. After the excellent starters and excuisite main courses, the chefs (two brothers from France) brought our experience even one level further. Little did we know that we were in for a treat with the desserts. Both brothers had built up quit some years of experience in pâtisserie before starting the restaurant. The millefeuille they served us outperformed what was already a very strong performance. We went home very satisfied. Compliments to the whole team, you made...