Laan 7

The story

Laan7 Eeklo: Refined French Belgian Dining in a Restored Villa

The kitchen and its philosophy

Laan7 in Eeklo builds its French Belgian cuisine around precise technique and seasonal sourcing. Chef Kim Rutsaert treats French classics as a foundation, refining them with modern acidity and lighter textures. Every plate relies on local produce and careful execution rather than heavy sauces. This disciplined approach earned the restaurant a 12.5 point rating from Gault&Millau, recognizing a table that balances quality with genuine warmth.

Signature plates and desserts

The menu highlights whole fryer plaice served with stoemp and fresh tartar, showcasing modern French cooking at its most focused. Guests can also order beef carpaccio dressed with truffle mayonnaise or a grilled Argentine strip steak finished with béarnaise. Sweet endings feature passion fruit crème brûlée or the signature Coupe Kolonel mixed with Belgian vodka. Each option reflects the kitchen’s commitment to pure flavors and balanced composition.

The space and hosting style

Guests enter a carefully restored sevenies villa where formal dining yields to comfortable conversation. Elien Bottelberghe guides service with attentive detail, ensuring guests feel at ease throughout the meal. Candlelight softens the terrace evenings while the interior keeps a relaxed pace. The setting proves that excellent Belgian culinary tradition works best when people share time without rigid formality.