September 5, 2017 · Team HG
The Kromme Elleboogbuurt in Groningen has gained another gem. As of today, September 5, 2017, at 5:00 PM, Bellami’s – Bar à Manger is open. Once inside, you will find yourself in a classically French-style bistro where you are welcomed for lunch, drinks, and dinner.
Owners Maeyke Schooljan and Sebastiaan Schokker have had a hectic time making the ‘Bar à Manger’ into what it is today.
“It wasn't until five minutes before we threw open the doors that we saw for ourselves what it ultimately looked like.” Said a proud Sebastiaan.
The classic black-and-white interior with an old mirrored wall is reminiscent of a 1930s grand café in Paris. The details are indispensable. The main eye-catcher is the centrally placed, handmade zinc bar. Surrounding it is a variety of chic furniture that is nevertheless very accessible and comfortable.
A piece of the black and white wallpaper and the building's famous stained-glass windows were the inspiration for the whole, Maeyke explains. “A building has its own properties and characteristics. Just like a person. You shouldn't want to change that, but rather respect it.” The art, then, is to give those characteristics the attention they deserve. Easier said than done. “I am so happy with how it all comes together.”
Both individuals have a passion for and experience in the Groningen hospitality industry. She, former owner of Grand Café Hooghoudt and Brasserie Bij van Boven, where a few years ago he was a popular bartender at, among others Café Wolthoorn & Co. Together they have the Luxury Bed & Breakfast named ‘Picon Suite‘ run in the Turftorenstraat. While there were initially plans to move to Maastricht, it was ultimately decided to stay in Groningen when they learned that the premises of restaurant Muller were becoming available.
The aperitif & delicatessen bar is announcing its menu today, based on French cuisine. In addition to the regular bistro menu, at least six ‘plats du jour’ are offered daily, tailored to the daily offerings and the season. So far, we have certainly been impressed by an aperitif of quark, Munster, walnut, and chives. We also got to sample a shrimp bisque with cream, and Bellami’s promises to present fine charcuterie and especially cheeses with matching wines. That leaves us wanting more. Bellami’s opens for lunch on Friday, September 8.
Bellami’s – Bar à Manger
Large curved elbow 13
9712 BJ Groningen
Tel: 050-3183208
