2_1_DiscoverBenelux_22_Oct_2015_Scan Magazine 1 30/09/2015 20:47 Page 38
Discover Benelux | Rotterdam Special | Top Eat, Drink & Sleep Spots
Gourmet refinement for one or many TEXT: PAOLA WESTBEEK | PHOTOS: HANNAH ANTHONYSZ
At restaurant De Harmonie, guests can revel in exceptionally prepared dishes paired with carefully chosen wines and served at either their invitingly warm interior or exquisitely kept garden. But that’s not all. The Rotterdam-based gem also offers two exclusive rooms suitable for private dining, receptions, weddings and more. Whether you are looking for a fine-dining experience or the perfect location to host a gathering, at De Harmonie, there are enough possibilities. Their menu consist of 12 entremet-sized à la carte choices that highlight the passion and culinary creativity of chef cuisinier Marco Somer and staff. “We are always developing new dishes,” says Somer. In detail, he explains their latest creation: “Trout cooked in smoked butter served with avocado crème, marinated avocado, almond crème with roasted almonds, soft-boiled quail’s egg, a touch of little gem and lukewarm beurre noisette.” An appetising combination of
flavours and ingredients exemplary of De Harmonie’s French-international approach. Each dish is priced at 15 euros, though diners can also opt for a five, six or seven-course menu with wines from their extensive list. The restaurant’s decor reflects a merging of nature and urban life in a welcoming atmosphere. It features elements of wood and walls decorated with impressive photographs of the city. On the second floor, two private rooms, the Charlotte and the Sofie, accommodating up to 16 and 60 people respectively, can be rented for a variety of events. The superb level of gourmet refinement presented in the most agreeable of surroundings, be it for one or for a group, are just some of the factors that make De Harmonie an excellent choice when visiting Rotterdam. www.deharmonierotterdam.nl
An iconic skyline view Located at the foot of the famous Erasmus Bridge and looking out over the river Maas, the city’s skyline and new iconic building ‘De Rotterdam’, Thon Hotel Rotterdam is undoubtedly at one of the most stunning locations of Rotterdam. “From our front door, it is only a short walk to the river and to the city centre,” says general manager Eric Slabbekoorn cheerfully. The easy to reach location makes Thon Hotel Rotterdam attractive to both business and leisure travellers, but is just as appealing by itself. The hotel with 92 rooms, is big in customer service. Eric Slabbekoorn: “We make sure our guests expe-
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rience the best possible stay and aim to be their home away from home. We’re approachable and make sure to establish a personal connection with both our one-time visitors and our frequent guests.” The rooms are exquisite as well. “They were all renovated earlier this year,” says Eric Slabbekoorn, “besides all the facilities that can be expected from a hotel, our superior rooms have a bath tub and an armchair or couch for a more luxurious stay.” On top of that, all rooms are equipped with air-conditioning and free high-speed wireless internet. “A must for every modern traveller.”
TEXT: JANINE STERENBORG PHOTOS: THON HOTEL ROTTERDAM
For business purposes, the ‘boardrooms’ Stuurboard and Bakboard offer great opportunities. Eric Slabbekoorn: “The maritime decorated rooms can host up to 70 people, and are suitable for meetings, presentations, conferences, dinner and more. We provide tailored solutions and modern technical and audiovisual equipment is available, so the possibilities are ample.” www.thonhotelrotterdam.nl