Joelia
Location picture
Michelin Guide
Worth the step
Modern French
The Michelin Guide's review
Joelia's charm permeates every nook and cranny of this restaurant. As you enter, you'll be instantly smitten with the eclectic decor, a captivating fusion of vintage and contemporary design. This space exudes a certain American grandeur, and the open kitchen and the impressive wine collection on show add to the atmosphere. Maître d' Pieter Timmer and chef Sofiane Bons inject a youthful energy into proceedings, including the menu. The passionate chef honours his French roots with meticulously crafted sauces and dishes. He adds pep and intensity by drawing inspiration from far-flung places, especially Asia. Red mullet, for instance, is barbecued to perfection, yielding a wonderfully crispy crust. To elevate the dish, the chef uses the fish bones to create a vibrant sauce packed with character. This is paired with a subtly sweetened mole, its characteristic nuttiness and spice adding another dimension. Pea and asparagus garnishes lend a burst of freshness and playfulness. This chef works with a broad palette of flavours, and these are complemented by an impressive wine collection of no less than 12 000 bottles.