Le Gastronome
Paliseul, Belgium
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Jean Vrijdaghs and Sébastien Hankard have added a youthful buzz to this illustrious restaurant, that had at least one Michelin star from 1963 to 2011. The restaurant and guestrooms have been restored to their former glory thanks to a contemporary makeover. Premium ingredients like Brittany lobster and local game are flanked by veg from the restaurant’s garden, with a flawless attention to detail and an abundance of veteran technique to shine the spotlight on the ingredient. The duo of chefs draws inspiration from purebred classical recipes, to which they add a contemporary twist. A hint of acidity imparts a kick, together with a subtle scattering of originality, even if the score remains legible and familiar. The surprise lies in their refined craftsmanship: cooked foie gras with a red beetroot crème, a crème of fresh, tangy apples, a foamy emulsion of red beetroot and a subtle stock. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it is a pleasure to see this grand old institution firmly back in the limelight.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Here are three unique and unconventional aspects of the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Gastronome in Paliseul:
1. Revival of a Historic Institution with a Contemporary Makeover
Le Gastronome, originally holding a Michelin star from 1963 to 2011, has been revitalized by young chefs Jean Vrijdaghs and Sébastien Hankard who restored the restaurant and guestrooms to their former glory while adding a modern twist. This blend of heritage and contemporary style creates a unique dining atmosphere that respects tradition yet feels fresh and current.
2. Farm-to-Table with a Focus on Local and Premium Ingredients
The restaurant emphasizes premium ingredients such as Brittany lobster and local game, complemented by vegetables grown in its own garden. This farm-to-table approach ensures freshness and seasonality, highlighting the natural flavors of the region with meticulous craftsmanship.
3. Refined Craftsmanship with Surprising Flavor Combinations
Le Gastronome is noted for its subtle yet original culinary techniques, such as the dish of cooked foie gras paired with a red beetroot crème, fresh tangy apple crème, and a foamy red beetroot emulsion. This layering of acidity and texture demonstrates a sophisticated balance of classical and contemporary flavors that remain approachable yet inventive.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Gastronome in Paliseul are:
Foie gras: Cooked foie gras is a highlight, served with a refined red beetroot crème and complemented by a tangy apple crème and a foamy red beetroot emulsion. This combination showcases the chefs' craftsmanship and balance of flavors, blending richness with acidity.
Red beetroot: Used in multiple forms such as a crème and a foamy emulsion, it adds earthiness and vibrant color, playing a key role in signature dishes alongside foie gras.
Fresh, tangy apples: Incorporated as a crème, the apples provide a fresh, acidic contrast that brightens the richness of foie gras and beetroot elements.
Sweetbread: Featured in a signature dish paired with watercress and morel mushrooms, highlighting the use of premium offal and seasonal ingredients.
Local game and Brittany lobster: Premium proteins that reflect the restaurant’s farm-to-table philosophy, often paired with vegetables from their garden and prepared with classical techniques and contemporary twists.
These ingredients are significant as they reflect Le Gastronome’s focus on high-quality, local, and seasonal produce, combined with classical French culinary techniques and modern creativity to create refined, balanced dishes. The interplay of rich foie gras with acidic and vegetal accompaniments like beetroot and apple exemplifies their signature style. Sweetbread and local game further emphasize their dedication to traditional yet innovative cuisine.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Menu Gastronome
- 5 services: €80 (accord mets et vins €46 / Accord sans alcool €42)
- 6 services: €100 (accord mets et vins €54 / Accord sans alcool €48)
- 7 services: €120 (accord mets et vins €62 / Accord sans alcool €54)
Signature Dish
- Plat Signature: Pêche du jour, céleri-rave, livèche