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At Otomat on the menu this spring | ‘You’ve Got The L’Oeuf’ pizza or egg benedict pizza and pitchers of spritz

27-3-2026

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Spring is just around the corner, and at Otomat that means a fresh update to the menu, with new dishes and a brand-new look. From 25 March 2026, Otomat is introducing a new spring menu featuring lighter flavours, new vegetarian options, such as the ‘You’ve Got The L’Oeuf’ pizza (aka Egg Benedict pizza) and spritz pitchers, as well as a few surprising twists on classics.

2 minutes read

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Grand Café Het Noorden in Aalten starts ‘Het Noorden Offline Resort’

27-3-2026

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Dining out without phones on the table for a change. In a time when screens are everywhere, Grand Café Het Noorden in Aalten is deliberately choosing the opposite approach. Starting in April, the hospitality business is launching a striking experiment: Het Noorden Offline Resort. Upon arrival, guests can voluntarily hand in their smartphones to be stored in a secure locker. In return, they receive an offline menu featuring puzzles, games, and other table activities.

2 minutes read

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Starbucks launches the ‘Ube Spring Drinks’-collection across European stores

26-3-2026

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Starbucks launches its ‘Ube Spring Drinks’-collection across European stores, featuring beverages inspired by the vibrant purple yam from the Philippines. From lattes and matcha to Frappuccinos®, the range combines the nutty sweetness of the yam with a striking purple color. By introducing the ‘Ube Spring Drinks’-collection, Starbucks brings a centuries-old culinary tradition to café menus while tapping into growing interest in global flavors and seasonal innovations. The collection delivers a fresh taste experience and visually appealing drinks that perfectly capture the energy of spring and social media trends.

2 minutes read

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Bagels & Beans introduces the Caffeine Compass | Discover your personal caffeine rhythm

26-3-2026

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From strategic sipper to double-shot thinker, insight into how coffee affects your energy. These days, we measure just about everything. Our steps. Our sleep. Our screen time. But our caffeine intake often remains overlooked. Even though coffee is a fixed part of the daily rhythm for many Dutch people: nearly 80% drink coffee weekly, averaging around 3 to 4 cups per day. With the Caffeine Compass, Bagels & Beans provides insight into what that means for your energy throughout the day.

2 minutes read

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Trends we spotted | Week 12

23-3-2026

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At horecatrends.com we spot many national and international trends on a daily basis. We pick the most interesting ones to write about, the other trends we use in our weekly column ‘Trends we spotted this week’. With this week links to articles about:

• Padbol, an energetic Argentine game that combines padel and football on a fenced-off court.
• Lighthouse is launching the first ChatGPT app for direct hotel bookings, featuring AI-driven, reliable hotel information.
• 24H Chefs, a biennial initiative with Gault&Millau, sees top chefs cook for 24 hours to raise funds for War Child and the Prinses Máxima Centrum.
• Bagels & Beans is expanding to nearly 100 locations, preparing for international expansion and appointing Carolien Vergouwe as managing director.
• The ‘Wissel ’ns Wat!’ campaign encourages the Dutch to make plant-based choices and offers a newsroom on the protein transition.
• Design & Wijn, in collaboration with Wijngoed Gelders Laren, is launching Portique, a Dutch port-style wine in a limited edition of just 438 bottles.
• Le Pain Quotidien is opening a location at Designer Outlet Roermond, thereby expanding its presence in the Netherlands.
• HEINEKEN has reached 1,500 alcohol-free tap points in The Netherlands and is promoting responsible 0.0 draught beer consumption at sports clubs.
• Het Noorden celebrates its 160th anniversary with Noorden Blond, a speciality beer brewed by Brouwerij Wentersch.
• Nine new properties join the global Relais & Châteaux collection.

Enjoy reading!

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Layan Life by Anantara | A new generation of women-focused longevity retreats

23-3-2026

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Layan Life by Anantara, the brand’s flagship wellness retreat at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, introduces a new collection of women-focused longevity retreats designed to support and empower women at every life stage. From tech-overloaded teens to women navigating midlife hormonal changes and those seeking strength and vitality later in life, the programmes address evolving wellbeing needs.

2 minutes read

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KAGE Lab opens in Brussels | Tea-based drinks, built like cocktails

20-3-2026

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After launching their tea and matcha collection in 2024 and opening Kage Specialty Tea, KAGE announces the opening of Kage Lab, a new concept set to open in April 2026 at Rue Lesbroussart 20 in Brussels. KAGE Lab introduces a new approach to daytime drinks: tea-based beverages developed with the precision and techniques of cocktail bars.

2 minutes read

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NORRA by Le Nord in Bilthoven focuses on more accessible fine dining

19-3-2026

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Restaurant NORRA by Le Nord in Bilthoven is entering a new phase. After a strong start – with the restaurant being included in the Michelin and Gault&Millau guides within its first year – owners Grégory and Lieke Nicole-Creemers are now focusing on greater accessibility. Lower menu prices, a larger à-la-carte selection and a clearer positioning alongside their other restaurant, Bistrôt Le Nord, are central to this strategy. At the same time, chef Grégory Nicole has taken on the role of executive chef for both establishments. With these changes, the couple aims to lower the threshold for guests while creating more room for spontaneous, relaxed fine dining. The new name: NORRA by Le Nord.

2 minutes read

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Amice Amsterdam opens its doors

13-3-2026

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Chefs Michael Wolf and Jordy Koopmans are opening Amice in Amsterdam. This marks the next step in their shared passion: a place that is truly their own. The two have known each other since 2009 and worked side by side in the kitchen for many years, including at Envy and later at Wolf Atelier.

Reading time: 2 minutes

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Redefine Meat launches next-generation plant-based Flank Steak

13-3-2026

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Redefine Meat, the pioneer of ‘new-meat’ – an emerging category of premium-quality, 100% plant-based products – today announces the next generation of its multi-award-winning Redefine Flank Steak, offering a richer, juicier and even more premium steak for meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans alike. The New-Flank is now available to both new customers and Redefine Meat’s existing network of foodservice partners and retailers across Europe.

2 minute read

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De Herberg van Smallingerland is ready for the future with son Jurmen and a revamped concept

13-3-2026

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Freddy Bult and Aukje Westerhof have been at the helm of the De Herberg van Smallingerland since 1995. After 31 years, a new chapter is beginning now that their son Jurmen has officially become a co-owner. Jurmen has gained experience at top establishments such as Landgoed Lauswolt and Kaatje bij de Sluis. With the arrival of son Jurmen Bult as a partner and chef, the future of the family business in the historic listed building dating from 1791 is firmly secured. In addition, the restaurant is introducing a more accessible format, offering à la carte dining alongside the tasting menu.

2 minute read

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Villa Kakelbont | Old hospitality legend returns to Rotterdam

10-3-2026

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You walk in and it feels as if time has stood still. This month, hospitality legend Villa Kakelbont made its comeback in the centre of Rotterdam, on Halvemaanpassage behind the Meent. Once the café of the Oude Haven, now a new place: a warm living room for the city. With a vintage interior, board games and pub classics on the menu, you’ll soon find yourself staying the whole evening.

Reading time: 2 minutes

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RHUM FEST PARIS | An edition celebrating the spirit of Carnival in April

10-3-2026

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RHUM FEST PARIS returns on April 18, 19 and 20, 2026 at the Parc Floral de Paris with an edition celebrating the spirit of Carnival. A symbol of joy and sharing, Carnival serves as one of the cultural bridges between Europe and many rum- and cachaça-producing territories : French Guiana, Trinidad and Tobago, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Haiti, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia…

2 minutes read

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Bordeaux Mondays at restaurant Bisous

6-3-2026

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Thanks to access to a unique wine cellar belonging to a passionate wine collector and an ami de Bisous from the eastern part of the country, restaurant Bisous in Amsterdam is launching its Bordeaux Mondays. During these evenings, exceptional wines from the prestigious French wine region of Bordeaux take center stage. Each Monday features a changing Bordeaux theme, ranging from a specific vintage to a remarkable subregion. Wine lovers get the chance to taste exclusive wines that are currently at their optimal drinking moment.

2 minutes read

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Female power in a glass | Female winemakers in the spotlight at restaurant Omber

6-3-2026

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At Restaurant Omber, located in the historic Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel, a good glass of wine carries extra meaning. To mark International Women’s Day 2026, Omber is putting female winemakers in the spotlight. Not only on this special day, but throughout the year the restaurant supports talented female winemakers who shape the sector with their vision and craftsmanship.

The wine list consists largely of wines made by women. Guests who take a seat and order a glass are therefore not only choosing quality but are also supporting female creativity and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated profession.

2 minutes read

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Hotelschool The Hague presents ‘The AI Power Gap’ research | Hospitality risks losing control of the guest to tech giants

6-3-2026

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While the world is talking about AI as the biggest economic shift since the smartphone, the Dutch hospitality sector finds itself in a dangerous dilemma. New research, ‘The AI Power Gap’ by Hotelschool The Hague, shows that the sector is structurally lagging behind: only one in ten Dutch hospitality businesses currently uses AI in a structural way. According to the researchers, this is a “code red” for the sector, as economic value is rapidly shifting toward external tech intermediaries.

2 minutes read

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Chocolate Hotel Suite opens its doors to the “sweetest person” in the world

5-3-2026

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Tony’s Chocolonely and The Social Hub, two leading B Corp brands committed to making the world fairer and more inclusive, have joined forces to create a chocolate-covered hotel room. But there’s a twist. A stay in the new chocolate pop-up suite at The Social Hub Amsterdam cannot be booked (or paid for). Guests can only stay there if they are nominated as the sweetest person in the world.

2 min read:

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Small gestures of hospitality | What do you do for guests with a cold in your hotel?

3-3-2026

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A blog by Marjolein van Spronsen about flu season. It is very inconvenient when part of your staff is sick, but it can also be challenging when you welcome guests who have a cold. How do you remain hospitable in those situations? And more about small gestures of hospitality and ‘random acts of kindness’.

This blog was previously published in Dutch at the website of the Van Spronsen & Partners Group.

2 minutes read

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DAPPER. cooks field-fresh hop shoots straight from the source

3-3-2026

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For chef Nick Dapper, hop shoots are something exceptional. Not only because of their flavour, but because of what they demand from a chef: speed, focus, and a refusal to take shortcuts. Their season is short. They oxidise quickly. And they don’t submit to routine. At DAPPER., he works with hop shoots harvested from the fields of Paul Temmerman.

Are hop shoots on your menu in the season?

3 minutes read

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‘Room for Her’ study by The Social Hub | Dutch women who travel solo prioritize safety over price

3-3-2026

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New European research by The Social Hub, conducted in the lead-up to International Women’s Day (March 8), shows that safety is more important than price for Dutch women when booking accommodation for solo travel. 56 percent cite safety as one of the most important factors, compared to 42 percent who mention price. The findings underline the urgent need for change within the hospitality sector when it comes to women’s safety.

2 minutes read

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Trends we spotted | Week 9

3-3-2026

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At horecatrends.com we spot many national and international trends on a daily basis. We pick the most interesting ones to write about, the other trends we use in our weekly column ‘Trends we spotted this week’. With this week links to articles about:

• Burger King is introducing updates to its iconic Whopper, including a new bun and box packaging.
• Live Más LIVE 2026 by Taco Bell, a Hollywood-themed event revealing its 2026 menu innovations.
• Kyriad has launched ‘Prompt It’ the first AI-powered travel guide created by the brand.
• Travel and Tour World has released its ‘Top 50 Nightlife Travel Destinations for 2026’.
• Starbucks is launching new Coffee & Protein bottled drinks on March 23.
• Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has added permanent Senior Meals (55+) to its menu.
• Mandarin Oriental has appointed Simone Biles as its first Global Wellness Ambassador.

Enjoy reading!

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Cool Kids Check In | Avani’s Family Friendly Resorts for every kind of kid

27-2-2026

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Family holidays are no longer one-size-fits-all. Avani’s Family Friendly Resorts is responding with a collection of resorts across Asia and the Indian Ocean designed around how kids actually travel, from Water Babies and Sporty kids to Foodies, Adventurers and Creatives. Each resort reflects different interests and energy levels while keeping the overall experience simple, flexible and enjoyable for parents too.

Great examples of a cool kids check in!

2 minutes read

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Fletcher Partner Hotels | Fletcher Hotels expands with 30 hotels abroad

27-2-2026

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With this new activity, 20 additional hotels in Germany and 10 hotels in Belgium are now bookable through Fletcher Hotels, increasing the total foreign portfolio by as much as 30 hotels. Fletcher Partner Hotels enables Fletcher to accelerate its European objectives: by starting a collaboration with a large number of foreign hotels, Fletcher can enter foreign markets more quickly and further increase brand awareness across Europe.

2 minutes read

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The Jollof Club chooses community funding for its first permanent location in Amsterdam-Zuidoost

26-2-2026

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The West African restaurant concept The Jollof Club in Amsterdam is taking its next step. Chef Nicolas Aquaa and hospitality entrepreneur Bunmi Okolosi will open their first permanent location in spring 2026 at Klein Bijlmerplein (Bijlmerplein 508) in Amsterdam-Zuidoost. To make this possible, they have consciously chosen crowdfunding via CrowdAboutNow.

With this campaign, they are not only building financial support, but above all a community. Future guests, fans, and local residents can become co-creators from the very beginning. “We want people to feel part of this story from day one,” says Bunmi Okolosi. “Not just as guests, but as a community.”

2 minutes read

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Wissel ’ns Wat! sets the Dutch protein transition in motion again

24-2-2026

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On March 2, Wissel ’ns Wat! (or in English: Let’s swap) will launch, a new nationwide behaviour-change campaign in the Netherlands that takes over from the ‘National Week Without Meat’ and will now remain active year-round. The campaign focuses on the so-called ‘movable middle’: the 53% of Dutch consumers who rarely choose plant-based alternatives but are open to change when it is practical, tasty, and accessible.

Based on the change in this initiative: why not serve your guests’ favourite dish as a vegetarian option?

2 minutes read

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