DIM Dining
Antwerpen, Belgium




The Experience
From Michelin Guide
DIM Dining is bathed in a calm, cosy vibe, created by a compelling blend of Japanese purity and Western luxury. The best seats are at the counter, which commands a view of the chefs at work. In keeping with the decor, the latter craft an intelligent cocktail of oriental delicacy with gutsy Gallic overtones. Asian cuisine is the playground of inventive chef Simon van Dun and his team, who playfully and unexpectedly work with authentic local ingredients throbbing in rugged tastes and aromas. The diner’s curiosity is constantly tickled as each mouthful seeks to surprise and astound. For example, duck cooked whole and continually basted in wagyu fat results in medium rare meat loaded in big-boned flavours. This is then flanked by a subtle gravy of duck juices and dark strong ale from the OWA Brussels brewery, without forgetting fresh, crisp side vegetables. Renowned sommelier and sake master, Jonas Kellens, rolls out his know-how by pairing the above dish with a 1984 All Koji sake in a match made in heaven! A whirlwind of culinary delight that leaves no one indifferent!
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
A Fusion of Cultures
- DIM Dining uniquely blends traditional Japanese cuisine with Western influences, creating a distinctive dining experience that transports guests to Japan while remaining in Antwerp.
Expert Sake Pairing
- The restaurant features a dedicated sake sommelier, Jonas Kellens, who offers personalized sake pairings to enhance the flavors of the dishes, making it a unique aspect of the dining experience.
Seasonal and Rare Ingredients
- DIM Dining emphasizes the use of seasonal ingredients, including rare Japanese products that are often hard to find in Belgium, providing diners with a culinary adventure and a taste of authenticity.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
Signature Ingredients
- Seasonal ingredients sourced from Japan: DIM Dining emphasizes the use of seasonal products that are often rare and not available in Belgium, ensuring that each dish maintains the character of its ingredients.
- Sake (Nihonshu): This traditional Japanese rice wine is not only a beverage but also a key component that enhances the flavors of the dishes. The restaurant offers a unique sake pairing experience guided by a certified sake sommelier, making it a distinctive part of the dining experience.
- Omakase-style dishes: The restaurant features a menu that reflects the omakase tradition, where the chef selects the dishes based on the freshest ingredients available, showcasing the best of Japanese culinary art.
- Japanese fish varieties: The menu includes various types of fish that are integral to Japanese cuisine, prepared with techniques that highlight their freshness and quality, contributing to the overall authenticity of the dining experience.