Alma
Oisterwijk, Netherlands
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
A potted history of the location that now houses Alma: it was once home to De Swaen, the restaurant where renowned chef Cas Spijkers, among others, was awarded one and then two MICHELIN stars. Today, Wouter van Laarhoven and Malou Hagenaars are upholding the restaurant's tradition of excellence. On the ground floor you will find the Bib Gourmand-awarded Alma Bodega, and fine dining restaurant Alma is on the first floor – a modern and elegant establishment with a fabulous terrace overlooking De Lind. Chef Van Laarhoven puts his heart and soul (alma in Spanish) into his dishes, combining inventiveness with technical skill. Authentic finesse lends a sense of coherence, while playful ideas breathe life into the dishes. In Mexico, for example, they got the idea of incorporating chicatana ants into beurre blanc, adding cocoa and umami nuances to their dish comprising briny Irish Mór oysters, buttery otoro sashimi, smoked soy and bone marrow melt. Rich sauces and subtle citrus notes take things up a notch. Rest assured you will find the perfect wine, as the pairings suggested by your hostess, who has a penchant for German wines, hit the spot every time.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Three unique/unconventional things about Alma, Oisterwijk:
Dual Dining Concept: Fine Dining and Bodega Under One Roof
Alma consists of two distinct dining experiences within the same premises: a fine dining restaurant on the top floor and a Bib Gourmand-awarded bodega on the ground floor. This combination offers guests both a high-end gastronomic experience and a more casual, stylish dining option in one location.Innovative Culinary Style with Global Inspirations
Head chef Wouter van Laarhoven incorporates inventive and technically skilled dishes inspired by diverse global influences. For example, he uses chicatana ants in beurre blanc to add cocoa and umami nuances, inspired by his experiences in Mexico. This creative approach blends authentic finesse with playful ideas, resulting in unique flavor combinations such as briny Irish oysters with otoro sashimi and bone marrow melt.Scenic Dining Atmosphere with a Terrace Overlooking De Lind
Alma’s fine dining area is located on the first floor, featuring a modern, elegant setting with a fabulous terrace that overlooks the majestic Lind. On summer evenings, tables are set on this balcony, offering diners a unique ambiance that elevates the overall experience beyond just the food.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at Michelin-starred Alma in Oisterwijk are:
Chicatana ants: Inspired by Mexican cuisine, these ants are incorporated into beurre blanc sauce, adding unique cocoa and umami nuances to dishes such as the one with briny Irish Mór cheese.
Seasonal local ingredients: Alma emphasizes seasonal produce, reflecting a dedication to freshness and creativity in their dishes, although specific items vary regularly.
Irish Mór cheese: Used in signature dishes, this cheese brings a briny, rich flavor that complements the innovative sauces and preparations at Alma.
While detailed ingredient lists are limited, these elements stand out for their significance in signature dishes, showcasing Alma's blend of modern French techniques with global inspirations and seasonal quality.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Alma experience menu (5 courses): €120
- Alma experience menu (6 courses): €135
- Alma experience menu (7 courses): €150
Signature Dishes
- Marbré: Rundersukade, eendenlever, Ibérico ham - €30
- Kaviaar tasting: Gerookte paling, steak tartaar, brioche - €50