Young entrepreneurs & new locations | Le Smash, Elysianne and Beau
Every day we spot fun and exciting new concepts. This week: a new Le Smash location in Leiden, restaurant Elysianne in Amsterdam, and Beau in Rotterdam.
Le Smash recently opened its eighth location in the Netherlands at Steenstraat 12 in Leiden. Meanwhile, the ninth location has also already opened in Groningen. Early 2025, restaurant Elysianne opened its doors at Ruysdaelstraat 48 in Amsterdam. Chef Matt Pace and his team serve refined versions of classic Creole dishes from Louisiana. And this Saturday, July 5, Beau will open at Stadhuisplein 23 in Rotterdam—a place to dine, experience, and linger.
We wish these entrepreneurs and their teams the best of luck and lots of fun with their new concepts.
2 minutes read
Le Smash opens new location in Leiden
Smashburger chain Le Smash has opened its eighth location, this time at Steenstraat 12 in Leiden. Soon after the ninth location followed, in Groningen. After successful locations in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Maastricht, Breda, and Utrecht, residents of Leiden can now enjoy the classic smashburger in its purest form. What began as a late-night kitchen table idea has quickly grown into a popular smashburger brand. Since the first location went viral in Amsterdam in 2023, Le Smash has rapidly expanded to other cities.
The concept of Le Smash centers on simplicity and quality. The menu offers two main choices: ‘Le Classic’ and ‘Le Special’—also available in vegetarian versions. The meat is smashed on the grill, keeping it juicy while creating crispy edges. The smashburgers are served with loaded fries, milkshakes, and ice cream cookies.
The interior of the new location follows Le Smash’s signature style: a sleek black-and-white design that feels modern yet accessible. Every detail is tailored to fit the concept. Co-founder Bram Smit sees the move to Leiden as a natural next step. “We had our sights set on expanding to Leiden for a while now, and after some delays, we’re proud to finally bring Le Smash to the Sleutelstad (key city, other name for Leiden),” says Smit.
Elysianne brings Creole fine dining to Amsterdam
Early 2025, restaurant Elysianne opened its doors at Ruysdaelstraat 48 in Amsterdam and quickly became a culinary hotspot. Chef Matt Pace – known as the winner of Beat Bobby Flay – and his team serve refined versions of classic Creole dishes from Louisiana, such as Gumbo, Shrimp & Grits, and Oysters Rockefeller. Using modern techniques and carefully selected wines, Elysianne offers a unique fine dining experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Critics describe it as “the best thing to happen to Amsterdam in years” and praise the food as “soul food at its finest.” Both culinary media and guests highlight the bold flavors and creative menu. Elysianne has firmly established itself in the Dutch gastronomic landscape in a short amount of time.
From July through the end of Septemb er, guests can choose between a 3-course menu (served from 6:00 to 8:00 PM) or a 6-course tasting menu (starting at 7:00 PM). Reservations can be made via their website (linked in the title) or by emailing info@elysianne.nl.
Watch this reel for Chef Matt’s explanation of what Creole Culture truly means:
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Beau Rotterdam | Paris on the Maas, with flair and no rush
This Saturday, July 5, Beau officially opens its doors at Stadhuisplein 23 in Rotterdam. A place to dine, experience, and linger. Not your typical restaurant or club, but an all-day concept where food, drinks, and nightlife come together. Start your day with croissants and cappuccinos, enjoy a lunch of French classics, and end the night with a flavorful dinner and great music.
Beau blends Parisian elegance with the bold spirit of Rotterdam. Think intimate tables, soft lighting, and surprising details. There’s no need to choose between dining out or a night on the town – you can do it all here. The menu features French dishes with a Rotterdam twist: from morning pain perdu to a rich croque-madame and steak with beurre café de Paris in the evening, rounded off with a silky crème brûlée.
The grand opening on July 5 marks the start of evenings full of atmosphere and experience. From Sunday, July 6 through Sunday, July 13, Beau is treating its guests to 50% off all menu items. Come as you are, stay as long as you like – at Beau, it’s all about enjoying without rules.
Beau is an initiative by Struisenburg Horeca BV. Link to their website is in the title.
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