Stars Shine in Antwerp - Botanic Gourmet Festival Brings Together the Global Elite of Gastronomy
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp proudly launches the first edition of the Botanic Gourmet Festival: a seven-day celebration of haute cuisine that places the city of Antwerp firmly on the international culinary map.
Antwerp, 9 May 2025 – At the recent prestigious Michelin Guide ceremony, what discerning food lovers have long known was confirmed once again: Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a culinary reference point of international stature. Hertog Jan retains its two Michelin stars, while Fine Fleur and Het Gebaar each reaffirm their one-star distinction. This renewed recognition honours not only the vision and refinement of chefs Gert De Mangeleer, Jacob Jan Boerma & Thomas Diepersloot, and Roger van Damme, but also further cements Botanic’s status as a gastronomic landmark in Europe.
Botanic Gourmet Festival – 16 to 22 June 2025
Following these accolades, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp proudly launches the first edition of the Botanic Gourmet Festival: a seven-day celebration of haute cuisine that places the city of Antwerp firmly on the international culinary map. The festival unites an unprecedented line-up of resident Michelin-starred chefs and an exceptional selection of international Michelin legends — together representing a remarkable total of 22 Michelin stars in one location.
An Unrivalled Culinary Rendez-vous
Throughout the week, guests will be immersed in a series of extraordinary gastronomic experiences. Highlights include:
Kick-Off Event (16 June): a culinary journey through the estate, with each restaurant presenting a signature dish – from Henry’s Bistro to Hertog Jan.
What to expect during the week?
Four- and six-hands dinners – exclusive collaborations between resident chefs and top international stars, including:
- Silverspoon by Viki Geunes (Zilte, Antwerp – ***)
- Christian Kuchler (Taverne zum Schäfli, Switzerland – **)
- Daniel Gottschlich (Ox & Klee, Cologne – **)
- Hans Neuner (Ocean, Portugal – **)
- Dieter Koschina (Villa Joya, Portugal – **)
- Sidney Schutte (Spectrum, Netherlands – **) Alexandre Gauthier (Le Grenouillère, France – **)
- Alberto Landgraf (Oteque, Rio de Janeiro – **) These Michelin-starred chefs each bring their unique worlds.
Special Gourmet High Tea Week: master pâtissier Roger van Damme reinterprets the classic afternoon tea in an intimate setting.
Masterclasses & Tastings: exclusive sessions held in the wine cellar, the historic Chapel, and the stunning Marie-Roos Room, featuring iconic names such as Krug, Ruinart, Rémy Martin, Bruichladdich, and Château d’Esclans – ideal for connoisseurs seeking deeper knowledge. Signature Events: including a Caviar Dinner at Fine Fleur and Bar Bulot, a Whisky Dinner in the Marie-Rose Room, and curated tasting flights at Henry’s Bar.
A Celebration of Craft and Sophistication
What makes this festival truly unique is the collaborative synergy between all culinary houses of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp – each with its own style and identity. This results in a total sensory experience where architectural beauty, historical charm, and contemporary craftsmanship blend seamlessly.
The week culminates on Sunday 22 June with the Grand Gourmet Gala, an evening of grandeur and significance. An exclusive auction and charity raffle will support Villa Max, an organisation dedicated to families with children requiring intensive care.
Antwerp: A Global Culinary Capital
This festival reaffirms Antwerp’s role as a culinary powerhouse: the city boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in Belgium and ranks fourth worldwide per capita. The Botanic Gourmet Festival is the ultimate celebration of this status – a gathering that attracts, inspires, and unites the global gastronomic elite.
Practical information
June 16 – 22, 2025
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Leopoldstraat 26, 2000 Antwerp
Tickets: Botanic Events | Botanic Brunch & Special Dinners [email protected] https://www.botanicantwerp.be/gourmet-festival/