Discover Benelux | Utrecht | The Ultimate & Unforgettable Summer Destination
Taking ‘Centraal’ stage TEXT: CHARLOTTE VAN HEK | PHOTOS: BISTROT UTRECHT CENTRAAL
In an environment of haste and chaos, Bistrot Utrecht Centraal is the haven of time for yourself. With a location on the balcony of Utrecht Centraal (stunning views guaranteed) and fresh coffee, brunch, or a full-blown dinner, this bistro is your home away from home – whether for five minutes or two hours. It takes a minute to take it all in when entering Bistrot Utrecht Centraal. The food bars are set within a maze of wooden tables and sit corners, hosting people reading the paper, eating dinner, or enjoying a drink. The open kitchens provide a good view of the chopping, baking or platesetting chefs to create a homely feeling. “Travellers have different needs than people who opt for a night of eating and drinking,” says Walter Seib, CEO of HMSHost International. “Bistrot Utrecht Centraal serves all: from the businesswoman in a rush to catch the train, to friends meeting up for a relaxed brunch.” This concept was designed in collaboration with 50 | Issue 42 | June 2017
the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo and reflects the spirit of today’s world: a kitchen of territories, a set of diversified ideas or concepts and eating places where it is possible to enjoy a ‘full immersion’ experience in local flavours and gastronomic cultures. Most ingredients are sourced from producers within a 50-kilometre radius. Almost everything is homemade. “Our chefs are craftsmen,” Seib continues. “They still make bread or pasta from A to Z.” The menu lists delicacies such as freshly Bistrot Utrecht Centraal: Welcomes over 20,000 visitors per month Hosts people for an average time of 30 minutes Uses 275 kilos of flour per month Can be visited in 15 travel locations worldwide Counts 350 seats in Utrecht The bestselling dish is the organic hamburger
baked focaccia, ‘antipasti’ and meat from the grill. Customers can compose their own meal of greens at the salad bar, while the Bakery and Versmarkt serve up more of everything fresh. We are not sure if it is the scents of fresh coffee and bread, the homely ambiance, or the rich pasta on our neighbour’s plate, but no matter how busy you are: Bistrot Utrecht Centraal makes you consider missing your next train. www.facebook.com/bistrotutrechtcentraal HMSHost International: feeling good on the move Bistrot Utrecht Centraal is a restaurant from HMSHost International, the world’s largest provider of food and beverage services for travellers. Being a recognised leader that creates innovative dining for people on the move worldwide, HMSHost wants people on the move to reach their destination happier, safer, and more satisfied. www.hmshost.international