Master Chef Mario Ridder Opens New Fine Dining Restaurant Azurite in Delft
Small in size, great in ambition—that is the promise of master chef Mario Ridder, who will open his new restaurant Azurite in Huis van Delft on September 2. With room for just 24 guests, a radical focus on the tasting experience and a wine loft that will make even the greatest oenophile drool, Ridder is launching his most personal project yet. “I want to give it everything one more time and cook at the very highest level.”
From De Zwethheul and Joelia to Azurite
Mario Ridder is a fixture in Dutch gastronomy. He cooked his way to two Michelin stars at De Zwethheul and later earned a star at Joelia in Rotterdam. But with Azurite, he is choosing a more intimate stage: less grandeur, more soul. “I’m going to fight my way back to the level I was at when I left De Zwethheul in 2015: two stars and among the top ten in the Netherlands.”
An Ode to Flavor
The restaurant has a minimalist interior: white linen, sleek tableware and understated luxury. No distractions, no frills—just the food receiving all the attention. The menu features à la carte dishes and two tasting menus. A creative nine-course menu (€170) and a nine-course caviar menu (€210). Everything can also be ordered separately.
And for those who miss Mario’s classics: don’t worry. He is simply giving them an upgrade. Take Likkepot 2.0: North Sea crab with caviar and avocado, preceded by a small teaser for extra depth. Old love, new magic.
The Open Kitchen: Mario Up Close
In the large open kitchen with three cooking islands, Ridder himself is behind the stove every evening. Guests can see him in action and literally get a glimpse into his culinary soul. Expect the finest cuisson, sauce artistry that will leave you speechless, and ingredients Mario has cherished for years: caviar, langoustine and top-quality Dutch produce, refined to perfection.
12,000 Bottles of Wine in the Loft
If you thought the kitchen was impressive: wait until you see the wine loft. With 12,000 bottles, it is one of the largest and most exceptional collections in the Netherlands. Burgundy lovers will be especially happy, but there is also room for international stars.
Sommelier Alain Rosier ensures that surprising open bottles are available every evening. You can order these for twenty euros per glass. No fixed pairings, but the freedom to choose—or simply dive into the wine wonderland yourself and let yourself be surprised. After dinner, you can head to the intimate whisky bar for a digestif.
Understated Comfort at Huis van Delft
Azurite is located in Huis van Delft, directly opposite Delft station. The interior is inspired by Delft blue. Soft lighting, natural materials and understated luxury create a sense of calm. Everything here revolves around the plate. “I don’t want pomp and circumstance, but dishes that truly move people. In a quiet setting where the dish makes the music,” says Ridder.
Practical Information
Address: Houttuinen 2, Delft | Open: Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. For information and reservations: restaurant Azurite.
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