Stefan's Gourmet Blog

29/08/2026

Dining in the Netherlands: Mario

Restaurant Mario in Neck was founded in 1967 by Italian chef Mario Uva. Every week, he drove to Italy to source authentic ingredients for the kitchen....

A review of the rebooted Restaurant Mario in Neck half an hour north of Amsterdam: outstanding 7-course Italian fine dining and exceptional wine pairings.

28/08/2026

Discover the delightful flavors of Hor Mok, a Thai seafood custard recipe made with homemade red curry paste. Easy ramekin method with authentic flavor.

12/08/2026

Dining in Amsterdam: Kaagman & Kortekaas

Kaagman & Kortekaas is the restaurant of chef Giel Kaagman and host Bram Kortekaas, tucked away in a narrow street right in the very touristy downtown area of Amsterdam, near Dam Square....

Kaagman & Kortekaas delivers on its motto: courageous cuisine and celebrated hospitality. Read my review of dinner at this Amsterdam gem.

03/08/2026

Crispy Thai Shrimp Golden Bags (Thung Thong)

Thung Thong (ถุงทอง) are a classic Thai appetizer of deep-fried, crispy pastry pouches packed with a savory filling....

Learn how to make Thung Thong, classic Thai Golden Bags filled with juicy shrimp and aromatic coriander, garlic, and white pepper, served with sweet chili sauce.

29/07/2026

My review of Alkmaar's hidden gem, Granville, a new restaurant serving exquisite local cuisine with international flavors and exceptional wine pairings.

Discover Alkmaar's hidden gem, Granville, a new restaurant serving exquisite local cuisine with international flavors and exceptional wine pairings.

27/07/2026

Discover a delicious and easy to prepare pasta dish featuring fresh green beans, cherry tomatoes, and ricotta salata for a quick, healthy summer meal.

23/07/2026

Dining in the Netherlands: Barres

We were invited aboard our friends' sailing yacht WindBreker for a weekend of sailing in the province of Zeeland....

A review of Restaurant Barres in Middelburg, Zeeland. Highlighting a stellar 6-course menu and outstanding wine list with fair markups.

14/07/2026

An elegant, modern take on shrimp ravioli. Learn how to turn shrimp shells into a rich syrup for a tender filling and a punchy, fresh tomato sauce.

28/06/2026

Learn how to make authentic, aromatic Northern Thai Sai Ua sausage at home without using casings. Easy recipe with homemade red curry paste and fresh herbs.

27/06/2026

Discover how to make Sup Ma Khuea, an authentic Northern Thai eggplant dip with smoky charred aromatics, Pla Thu mackerel, and fresh herbs.