Noeti

The exterior of restaurant Noeti (named after the owners’ mother’s takeaway shop) may not look immediately inviting, but once inside, young entrepreneurs host Joshua and chef Julian Simonis impress with their utmost hospitality in an atmospheric setting and an exciting fine-dining kitchen where Oriental flavors take center stage. Paired with a crisp Italian sparkling Valdo from Veneto, we begin by nibbling on crunchy prawn crackers enriched with Madras curry. The small plate is empty in no time. Soon followed by freshly steamed bao buns and delicate palate pleasers such as a white chocolate bonbon filled with apple and lemongrass juice, alongside tomato meringue with bumbu mousse, sweet-and-sour tomato, lime leaf, and yellow rice crisps. This looks promising. For the starter, a tartare of Dutch veal with a gadogado cream, galangal curry cream, kalamansi ice pastille, coriander root, and a classic rendang vinaigrette. A surprising and distinctive dish that transforms the classic steak tartare into a contemporary version with refined Eastern flavors. Every bite is a feast for the taste buds. An intensely fruity Max Lions Premium Grenache accompanies a slice of brined, steamed, and lightly seared duck, served with crispy gyoza stuffed with thigh meat, a luxurious sakura and sambai sauce, and an aromatic XO beurre blanc. All presented with a modesty rarely encountered today. We say: a new star has emerged on the culinary firmament in Oosterhout, North Brabant. Worth a detour. Welcome to Lekker.

On the edge of Oosterhout's car-free nightlife district lies Noeti, the new venue of brothers Julian and Joshua Simonis. The stylish corner building exudes atmosphere. Noeti brings a mix of French, Indonesian, and Asian influences....