The tastemaker of LOF Restaurant: Paul de Groote

In the heart of Ghent, tucked away in the historic Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof, there has been a new chef in the kitchen since April of this year, Paul de Groote. The chef from Zeeland not only brings with him a wealth of experience, but also introduces a refined approach to cooking, rooted in simplicity and pure flavours. What does his arrival mean for LOF Restaurant?

The culinary journey of Paul de Groote

Born in Oostburg in 1980, he once dreamed of a future as a carpenter. However, fate had other plans for him, and he fell in love with the craft of cooking. After his training at Ter Groene Poorte in Bruges, he began his career at the prestigious Inter Scaldes at the age of 21. He started on exactly the same day as Jannis Brevet, who took over the 2-star restaurant from Maartje & Kees Boudeling at the time. Here de Groote honed his skills and helped the restaurant grow from two to three Michelin stars. For 20 years, he worked closely with three-star chef Brevet, an experience that would shape his cooking style forever.

Grand in Simplicity

Now, as Chef de Cuisine at LOF, Paul de Groote brings this experience to Ghent. His first menu showcases his philosophy of “great in simplicity,” emphasizing the pure flavours of high-quality ingredients. Under his direction, LOF serves dishes such as organic foie gras with Sauternes, hazelnut and brioche bread, and a Soto soup inspired by his Moluccan wife's family recipe. “It starts with giving love and attention to the flavours of the pure product. Going back to the basics of cooking and seeking depth there,” says De Groote.

The atmosphere makers of the evening

In addition to the arrival of Paul de Groote, LOF is being strengthened by a young and passionate team. According to de Groote, 25-year-old sommelier Thomas Naessens and 21-year-old restaurant manager Aniek van den Assem are the true atmosphere creators of the evening. Together they create a vibrant and welcoming environment, where guests can enjoy fine-dining at the highest level.

Chef Paul de Groote with sommelier Thomas Naessens and restaurant manager Aniek van den Assem

A Culinary Destination in Ghent 

Entrance via Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof

Located in the former mansion of baron and poet Olivier de Reylof, LOF Restaurant offers a unique fine-dining experience in Ghent. The restaurant, part of the award-winning Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof, is a destination in itself. After an evening of culinary surprises, guests can retire to the hotel's luxurious rooms, which was awarded the 2023 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award.

A New Chapter for LOF  

With Paul de Groote at the helm, LOF begins a new chapter in its culinary journey. His commitment to simplicity and pure flavours promises a refined dining experience that will appeal to both local foodies and international guests. Marcel Reijnen, Hotel Manager of Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof, phrases it aptly, “Paul de Groote cooks grand in simplicity. He knows how to conjure up pure dishes with explosive taste experiences. His maturity and down-to-earth disposition take LOF's team and kitchen to the next level.”

Ghent has a new culinary hotspot, and LOF Restaurant, under the direction of Paul de Groote, is ready to surprise and delight guests with cuisine that celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Want to experience LOF Restaurant for yourself? Reserve a table via the website or make it extra special with a culinary hotel package.