Unique: the best Asian food in the Netherlands is served at this ‘one table restaurant’
A while ago, we reviewed the fantastic takeaway menu from restaurant Nayolie. And now chef Kevin Lin has something new: he is opening a unique ‘one table restaurant’ in his Nayolie in Voorschoten. And believe me: this could well become your culinary highlight of 2020. Because Kevin cooks modern Asian cuisine, and he does it brilliantly.
Best Asian restaurant of 2020
He already received a Golden Ladle from AD in 2019, and Restaurant Guide GaultMillau named Nayolie the best Asian restaurant of 2020, so that says something. Because of the 1.5-metre social-distancing regulations, Kevin cannot accommodate many people in his small restaurant. That is why he is replacing all the tables with one large table that can be reserved exclusively for a maximum of 4 people. This immediately makes it the only ‘one table restaurant’ in the Netherlands where you eat not in the kitchen, but in the existing restaurant space with your own party—at the only table in the restaurant.
With your three best friends
Because the table is set very spaciously, with 1.5 metres between you and your fellow diners, you can reserve with a mixed group, meaning that all guests do not have to come from the same household. Dining out with your three best friends or with another couple you are friends with—it is perfectly possible. In other restaurants, this is (not yet) possible under the current coronavirus measures for the hospitality industry.
Omakase
What can you expect? Kevin: “The menu is served on the basis of ‘omakase’, a Japanese style of dining in which the guest completely surrenders to the chef’s knowledge and skills. It is a true one man show, in which I cook, serve, explain the dishes and pour the drinks. And when the weather is nice, guests can choose to eat outside on the terrace.”
The 7-course menu changes regularly and is made with luxurious, high-quality ingredients and rich flavours, influenced by Thailand, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore. Kevin: “It is truly becoming my showpiece, where I can fully express my creativity. Examples of products Kevin uses include langoustines from the Faroe Islands, shellfish such as abalone, toro, the flavourful belly cut of bluefin tuna, and Miyazakigyu A5, the finest Japanese wagyu beef.”
Dining among the plants
Nature plays a major role in Kevin’s menu. Plants, herbs and flowers help determine the flavour and presentation of his dishes and, remarkably, Koppert Cress has created an indoor garden with special plants that he can harvest fresh every day, among which you dine. Lovely!
Does it sound like your kind of thing?
The only table in the restaurant is available on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only, for a party of 2 to 4 people. The 7-course menu costs € 125 per person, excluding drinks. More information can be found on Nayolie’s website.
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