Mother’s Day at Het Oude Dykhuys – Familiar Comfort with a Touch of Class

Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to enjoy great company and great food with family. For us, it meant returning to a familiar place: Het Oude Dykhuys in Lisserbroek. It’s a spot I’ve visited with my mother before — known for its warm ambiance and lovely terrace. With the sun shining brightly, the terrace seemed like the ideal choice — until the neighbour decided it was the perfect time to fire up a compressor and other machines. Luckily, the restaurant’s charming interior made for a great alternative.

Service was partly in the hands of a new, younger team. They were friendly, attentive, and professional — although the relaxed, personal interaction that gives this place its signature warmth wasn’t fully there yet. That will likely come with experience — the foundation is definitely solid.

For Mother’s Day, the restaurant offered a special five-course menu, with an optional cheese platter. Things kicked off with a fresh and surprising starter: lightly cured salmon with cucumber textures, a citrus-gin gel, and a crisp seaweed tuile. A flavourful opener, with a bright acidity that grabbed your attention right away.

The second course featured sea bass with coconut basmati rice and an Oriental-style langoustine broth — elegant and subtle, with crunchy vegetables adding some texture. Still, a bolder flavour note wouldn’t have hurt.

The third dish — Dutch white asparagus with lamb ham and brioche crumble — was well-composed, though the lamb could have used more punch. A bit more seasoning would’ve added the extra spark.

The main course, however, was a definite highlight: slow-cooked “Geldershoen” chicken with vanilla, served with a creamy jus and refined garnishes like tiny potato pearls, morels, and peas. It hit all the right notes and brought smiles to the table.

For those with room to spare, a classic cheese cart was available — followed by a light and sweet dessert: lemon tart with toasted meringue. The final course — white chocolate mousse with tarragon, raspberries, crème fraîche ice cream and pink pepper — was playful, elegant, and a creative way to close the meal.

Final verdict: Het Oude Dykhuys delivered another fine dining experience, even on a busy holiday. The menu was thoughtful, refined, and beautifully presented — though at times a touch too safe. Still, the bright acidity in the starter and the herbaceous notes in the dessert hint at a kitchen that isn’t afraid to take a few chances. For anyone who enjoys subtle sophistication without unnecessary fuss, this remains an excellent choice.