An evening of culinary surprises at 1397 Restaurant in Bergen op Zoom
We recently visited Restaurant 1397 in Bergen op Zoom for a wonderful dinner. An attractive restaurant located in the historic building of Grand Hotel de Draak. Here we enjoyed a wonderful dinner full of delicious surprises.
Restaurant Hemmingway renamed Restaurant 1397
Restaurant 1397 has borne its name since Sept. 6, 2021. And for a reason. Namely, the name refers to the year 1397, the oldest year in which the existence of the original inn can be found in the history books. With this new name, the restaurant honors the history of the property, where guests can enjoy a high level of fine dining.
An evening of indulgence
On the day of our visit, we were hospitably welcomed by the hotel’s hostess. Indeed, in addition to our restaurant visit, we also stayed a night at the hotel so that we could both enjoy dinner and be surprised by the complete menu (and accompanying alcoholic refreshments) prepared for us. We were given a beautiful, spacious and modern room at our disposal where we settled in and freshened up for dinner. In the lobby we were warmly welcomed by Imad Khalfioui, the maître of Restaurant 1397 located in the adjacent room. We were served an aperitif and soon a delicious amuse bouche that made us curious about what was to come.
A surprise menu of culinary excellence
We were served “Menu 1397” this evening. At the table, the maître asked if we wanted to see the menu beforehand or leave it a surprise until the end. Now we like to be surprised! So one of the amuses consisted of a kibble of cauliflower with Joppie sauce, and it tasted delicious! Original, delicious and a culinary masterpiece. Besides the various amuses, the menu consisted of 6 courses where each dish was full of delicious flavor combinations, beautiful colors and surprising textures.
For example, a crème cru with beet and green apple was served. Quail with lardo, sambai and little gem. Rye with kombu and green asparagus. Truffle with a pickled egg yolk and a delicious Dutch veal. All dishes were supported with a custom-made beverage package, which included not only the expected wonderful wines, but also a surprising cider as a starter. We concluded our dinner with coffee and tea after the dessert of mango with pink pepper, Valrhone and lychee. At least, that’s what we thought. But here again we were surprised by several friandises, each one so delicious that you eat your fingers.
Hospitality without borders
Throughout the evening we had a very good time. Of course we enjoyed each other’s company at the table. But the genuine friendliness, service and hospitality of the team at 1397 Restaurant also contributed greatly to this. Prior to dinner, Chef Torben Bouterse came to introduce himself and welcome us. Also, in a very professional personal manner, maître Imad made a short chat in between, told us extensively about the dishes and supporting drinks and gave us the freedom to enjoy the food and the evening. Even at the end of the evening, the Chef made some time for us to inquire over coffee whether we had enjoyed the evening. And we certainly had! Upon leaving, I was given the evening’s menu in a stylish menu sealed with the restaurant’s logo. And upon opening the menu, I saw that this card had been personalized for me. What a nice and special detail!
Hotel de Draak is definitely worth a visit
At the end of the evening, we retreated to the hotel room. And the room not only looked like it was equipped with all conveniences, it was. And the bed was great too! The next morning we enjoyed the sumptuous breakfast buffet for a while before heading back home.
As far as I’m concerned, Hotel de Draak is definitely worth repeating on my next visit to Bergen op Zoom. Especially in combination with a delicious culinary dinner at Restaurant 1397. Fine dining at top level!
Team 1397 and De Draak, thank you for your hospitality and for allowing us to enjoy your culinary art and sincere hospitality. We would love to come back!
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