December 13, 2019 · Menno Hoexum
Nan entry into the one opened this week Bar 1672 On the Gedempte Zuiderdiep, the eye is drawn to the imposing and antique-looking espresso machine from the Italian brand Elektra in the corner of the bar. It is one of the many eye-catchers in the new hospitality business that Fred Dalebout and his wife Ilona will operate under the umbrella of the Martini Hotel Group.
“It is the first establishment we have been able to build together entirely according to our own vision and taste. A bar where delicious dishes should ensure an unforgettable time, with a rich artistic history as the main ingredient,” says Fred Dalebout.
The building certainly has a history, as two cannonballs fired from the Kempkensberg by Bommen Berend during the Siege of Groningen in 1672 can be found in the facade.
The menu at Bar 1672 differs considerably from what is common in the many eateries found in the city of Groningen. No starters or main courses, but rather small, flavorful bites prepared by the kitchen in any desired quantity. All of this can be enjoyed with champagne or one of the many cocktails created by the bartenders. Should you still feel the need for a beer, Bar 1672 was one of the first in the Netherlands to serve the Belgian Cristal.
The name 1672, which now adorns the facade once again, did not appear entirely out of the blue. In the winter of 1974, the doors opened under the name Boetiek Waterloo annex Café 1672. It served as a stage for all kinds of performing arts, such as cabaret, jazz, poetry, and theater. The Celtic folk band Rapalje began its first performances there. The last owner of Café 1672 was Hans Vos (Leip), who also ran the jazz café De Spiegel in the Peperstraat. After his departure, the name changed to eetcafé Roezemoes.
It is not only the impressive espresso machine that catches the guest's attention. On the back wall of the mezzanine hangs the large artwork *A Wonderful World* by James Chiew, in which world-famous politicians, artists, royal families, and clergy are brought together in a humorous group portrait. Well worth a look! The same applies to the building, which holds the status of a national monument and, as historical records hold, has stood on this site since the seventeenth century.
Fred and Ilona Dalebout hope that Bar 1672 becomes an establishment where guests can enjoy the exquisite drinks and tasty snacks in peace and quiet.
“The ambiance in the building provides a sense of calm. The menu offers a wide variety for a target group that, in our opinion, would find it difficult to find such a concept in the city of Groningen. We have arranged the interior on several floors in such a way that guests can spend the evening in a relaxed manner. Eating is meant to be shared; we share love and like food,” is the motto of Fred and Ilona Dalebout.
Bar 1672 is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 4:00 PM, Fridays at 3:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 PM, and closed on Mondays. During the summer months, when the outdoor terrace can be moved, the establishment opens earlier during the day.
