Restaurant Luwte in Groningen is open. At Zwanestraat 26, chef Falk van Essen (32) and hostess-sommelier Caroline de Vries (31) serve top gastronomy using ingredients from small-scale farmers, growers and fishermen from the northern provinces. In a 19th-century national monument, without fuss. 'High quality for a friendly price, without stiff service.'
The name says it all: Luwte, a moment away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Right in the bustling city center, the life partners created an intimate spot where guests can fully relax. "We offer casual fine dining," says Caroline. "High quality and service, but very accessible. No strict etiquette. Our strength lies in personal attention."
From Onder de Linden to own business
The names behind Luwte will sound familiar to connoisseurs. Falk and Caroline both worked for years at top restaurant Herberg Onder de Linden in Aduard, he as head chef, she as sommelier. Furthermore, Falk previously gained experience at Da Vinci in Maasbracht, De Groene Lantaarn in Zuidwolde, and De Vlindertuin in Zuidlaren, among others. In addition, hostess Annemarie Panman also made the move from Aduard to Zwanestraat.
Northern farmers, growers and fishermen
In the open kitchen, Falk cooks according to a clear philosophy: classic French gastronomy, Dutch ingredients, and global influences. The foundation? Sustainability and origin. 'We carefully select every ingredient, in close collaboration with small-scale farmers, growers, and fishermen from the northern provinces,' says Falk. 'Truly good food begins with respect for nature.'
Guests immediately taste this in the very first Luwte menu, featuring five to seven courses (five courses for €75). Think of thicklip mullet and mussels from the Wadden Sea, North Sea crab, and Dutch grass-fed lamb. But you are also well catered for here without fish or meat: 'We also serve a full, largely plant-based menu. This way, vegetarians and vegans enjoy the same complete culinary experience with us.'
Scandinavian tranquility, ten tables
The duo designed the interior themselves. Scandinavian tranquility predominates: warm wooden tabletops, authentic brick walls, and round tables with softly upholstered chairs. With ten tables and seating for thirty guests, Luwte deliberately remains small-scale. From the restaurant, you can look directly into the open kitchen. “From the restaurant, you can look directly into the open kitchen, and that is no coincidence. 'Because we want to take guests along on the journey of the plate,' says Caroline.”
Organic wines, accessible prices
Caroline's wine list features exclusively organic and biodynamic European wines, with a strong focus on alcohol-free alternatives. Moreover, the list, like the menu, is surprisingly accessible: approximately half of the bottles cost a maximum of €80, while connoisseurs can splurge on top wines up to €225.
Restaurant Luwte is open from Wednesday to Saturday for dinner and from Thursday to Saturday for lunch. More information at www.restaurantluwte.nl.
Photos: Boas Wiegmans
