Pacht 26

Mastercook Stefaan De Proft is not only a chef but also a sommelier, a dual passion that gives his cuisine its own distinctive character. After his training in Aalst and his years as a chef at "Ter Monde" in Dendermonde, he joined forces with partner Els Van Sande to open "Pacht 26" in the quiet Gijzegem, close to Aalst. What started as a dream on Pachthofstraat has grown into one of the most celebrated gastronomic destinations in East Flanders.

The restaurant radiates calm and warmth, with a stylish space where old and modern accents come together. From the dining room you have a direct view into the open kitchen, where Stefaan works daily with visible passion. Els takes care of service with an effortless elegance that puts guests at ease right away. There is private parking behind the building and the garden gives everything a pleasant, rural feel.

On the plate, Stefaan combines character with finesse. Local products, seasonal and carefully selected from the earliest morning markets, form the foundation. Think tartare of gambero rosso with mango and wakame, Oosterschelde eel with buttermilk foam, or thin-cut Irish beef with a classic Bordeaux sauce. His wine list, partly assembled during travels through Eastern Europe, completes the experience.