In our latest Gastronomic Belgium article Caroline Dierckx enjoys fine dining in a gorgeous location on the outskirts of Brussels.
The Maxime Colin restaurant in Kraainem is a unique place set between a castle and a lake where it is good to go and discover or rediscover tasty and inventive cooking.
Its location is atypical – a former old 17th century presbytery in a bucolic style that is warm and welcoming. Inside, the renovation carried out a few months ago reveals a contemporary tone. For the warm days to come, the large terrace at the edge of the lake offers an open view to the nature beyond. It is a perfect place to have an aperitif or a meal. In addition, a large carpark is just 50 metres away.
As for the chef, Maxime Colin, just 34 years old, is already well-known in the Belgian gastronomic landscape, since he took over the ovens of the then Michelin-starred La Villa Lorraine, Uccle, in 2016. At the same time, the passionate chef that started cooking at the age of 13 has earned the title of ‘young chef of the year Gault & Millau 2016’. A few years earlier, he also took a leading role alongside Pascal De Valkeneer at Uccle’s Le Chalet de la Forêt. It is not surprising that Maxime Colin’s brand definitely and confidently counts in the landscape of really fine dining in Belgium.
Maxime Colin’s cuisine is a real artform. It is authentic, full of flavours, surprising and very tasty. Maxime makes it a point of honour to choose seasonal, locally produced ingredients with care. He knows every product by heart. He works with them with his own unique approach, which is translated to the plate as frank and personal cooking.
Maxime offers several choices of menu in three or five courses. There is also a selection of cheeses from Julien Hazard. A word of advice, let yourself be guided by the chef’s suggestions. It is a lovely way to be surprised and it will thrill your tastebuds. Do the same for the wines. The wine cellar is not to be outdone. Once again, let yourself be seduced…
What we really appreciated was the attentive and impeccable service provided by all members of the Maxime Colin team. A harmonious partnership between the hotel manager, waiter, cook but also Chef Maxime himself. It was always kind, leaving room for conversation and a human touch.
We had a great time, and we will come back to enjoy the terrace and the Chef’s new ideas!
www.maximecolin.be
