Ember

The story

Ember Zwolle: Comfort Fine Dining in a 15th-Century Monument | Wattafork

The chef and the fire

Ember brings comfort fine dining to Zwolle, anchored by a Gault&Millau rating of 12.5 that rewards both culinary finesse and accessibility. Bart van Diepen directs the culinary vision alongside Kiki Bult, whose dedication to service complements the kitchen's intensity. The team mills their own grains for house-made bread and pasta, and all proteins receive in-house dry-aging to develop depth. Fire serves as the central tool; an open hearth burns visibly, allowing guests to watch flames shape the flavors.

Dishes built around heat and memory

The menu progresses through stages, beginning with sparks like paper-thin tempura oysters dressed with Moroccan spices and BBQ tomato. Subsequent courses emphasize the grill, showcasing Wagyu bavette cooked over coals or piri piri chicken glazed with rhubarb kosho, a reference to the chef's experiences in Portugal. Rich torchetti pasta with farmhouse cheddar and truffle offers a hearty contrast. This commitment to fine dining comfort ensures that complex methods always serve the ingredient's natural profile.

A 15th-century setting with modern warmth

The venue resides in a monument constructed in 1450, retaining architectural details such as tall ceilings, robust wooden beams, and stained glass panels. These historic features blend with a current interior design that employs soft hues and sumptuous textiles to foster a relaxed environment. The open kitchen anchors the room, placing diners close to the action and the warmth of the cooking area.