Flores

In recent years, Nijmegen has had a culinary makeover, setting the tone as the vegetable capital of the Netherlands (and perhaps more broadly, too). At approximately the same time as Emile van der Staak from De Nieuwe Winkel, Elroy Slijkhuis of Flores morphed his third-generation family place from a traditional French-inspired bistro into a culinary experience with a focus on vegetables and local produce. No more anonymous Canadian lobster or New Zealand Sauvignon, but homemade koji greens, vegetables, dry-aged local deer and European wines with a focus (though not exclusively) on the natural aspect.

Don’t be alarmed – a warm atmosphere and hospitality are at the forefront here and the restaurant feels very personal. Yes, the kitchen experiments, which in itself makes the restaurant worth a visit, but never at the cost of the guests’ comfort. Elroy makes sure of that.

The wine list is an extensive but not too vast (approximately 300 references) selection of European wines, mostly organic and biodynamic, with a strong leaning towards the natural scene. It does, however, cater to everyone’s palate and there’s a nice selection of classic, well-matured Clarets too. Service ensures good stemware, good temperatures, and in the back of the restaurant you have a great view over the walk-in wine closet. Elroy has also found himself some great staff members, who are very knowledgeable about the wines.

Flores is a culinary and vinous place just waiting to be discovered.