De Pastorie

The story

De Pastorie: Michelin-Starred Modern Cuisine in a 17th-Century Lichtaart Setting

A 17th-century setting

De Pastorie sits in the centre of Lichtaart, a restored 17th-century parsonage shaded by an ancient trumpet tree. Inside, the atmosphere is stylish and welcoming; outside, a meticulously maintained garden opens onto a terrace that Gault&Millau named the most beautiful in Belgium. The kitchen brigade, led by Carl Wens and his son Wout, brings three decades of experience together with a fresh, refined approach. The result is a Modern Cuisine that respects purity of product while pushing flavour boundaries.

Seasonal tasting menus

The menu is a journey through precisely executed dishes. The “Alliance” tasting menu (€135) opens with a prelude of falafel with mint and pomegranate, a pecorino cornetto, cauliflower with kombu, and sepia with tom yum. Highlights include Toro tuna with foie gras and lychee, turbot with asparagus and morel, and a summer deer course with purple curry and rendang. Desserts, such as cherry with black sesame or strawberry with shiso and champagne, close the meal on a bright note. Shorter options are available for lunch and mid-week dining, each paired with a thoughtful wine selection.

A Michelin-starred experience

The restaurant’s Michelin star and Gault&Millau score of 16/20 reflect the team’s dedication. Loes and her front-of-house team welcome guests with warmth and professionalism, ensuring the dining experience is as memorable as the cooking. De Pastorie is a place where Modern Cuisine feels both grounded and inventive – a genuine destination in the Kempen region.