Jonnies Playground
Jonnie Boer
De Librije ★★★, No. 69 / 100 Best 2021
Zwolle, Netherlands
Jonnie Boer started as a chef at De Librije in 1986. At the age of 23 he became head chef. A short time later, Thérèse joined the restaurant as a sommelier. They must have clicked almost immediately. They made a sensational team. No matter where or how, Jonnie and Thérèse are always mentioned in the same breath.
De Librije is together with Librije’s Hotel located in a lovely restored women’s prison. The restaurant is situated in the spacious hotel atrium, spread out beneath an imposing glass roof. Guests can gaze up into the sky and almost feel the sun, clouds, rain and snow on their skin.
Jonnie Boer is like a fish in the water in his restaurant and sparkles with energy. His connection with nature can be found in all he is doing. Working with local products is his specialty. Sustainable regional products will be turned into artwork with creative techniques.
In the restaurant you find germinating vegetables and herbes to show the guests the story behind their food. In the middle of the restaurant stands a tree which he dug up in the nearby town of Giethoorn where he was born. The legendary chef’s table has also found a home in the restaurant. All together De Librije is a place where guests experience great culinary skill in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
