The story
At Au Bistro in Nieuwpoort, Laurent Ghys directs a kitchen built around precise technique and quiet confidence. He favors lean plating and restrained seasoning to let raw ingredients speak for themselves. The team maintains a tight rotation based on morning deliveries, ensuring consistency across every service. This disciplined method earned the Gault&Millau guide 12.5 points for steady quality.
North Sea delicacies form the backbone of the rotating menu, appearing as whole fish or shelled varieties depending on the tide. Simple pan-frying and light poaching dominate the preparation methods, avoiding heavy sauces or excessive garnish. Portion sizes stay generously proportioned throughout the evening. The approach remains firmly rooted in accessible coastal cuisine.
Floor-to-ceiling glazing opens toward the harbor, flooding the dining room with daylight and distant boat traffic. Rough-hewn wood counters and muted upholstery ground the space without competing with the view. Service moves at a measured pace, allowing diners to settle into the rhythm of the room. Regular visitors appreciate the balance between polished execution and unhurried hospitality.
Recognition