In this second episode of the season, we travel to the forests of Bennekom to visit Restaurant Het Koetshuis, where we sit down with Danny Löhr, second generation at the helm of this long-standing culinary institute.
Hidden deep in the Veluwe, Het Koetshuis has been a place of tranquillity and craftsmanship for nearly four decades. What started as a small family venture has grown into a destination known for its classical French foundations, subtle modern evolution, and a loyal following that spans generations.
Join us as we explore the philosophy behind Het Koetshuis — from preserving culinary heritage to building one of the most exciting wine cellars in the region, always driven by the belief that great food and wine are meant to be shared.
Step into the calm, forested surroundings of Het Koetshuis, where nature and gastronomy meet in a setting defined by quiet luxury. With a spacious terrace, an underground cellar and a kitchen rooted in French tradition, the restaurant offers guests an escape from the pace of everyday life.
Under Danny Löhr’s guidance, the cuisine continues to evolve through the work of Chef Brandon de Bruin, who refines classics such as sweetbreads with Dutch asparagus and grilled turbot while staying true to the soul of the house.
Wine plays a central role in the experience, with a deep focus on Burgundy and Champagne and a rare selection of bottles served by the glass — including cult producers that are seldom accessible outside private cellars.
Het Koetshuis is built on family values and long-term vision. Founded by Danny’s parents in the mid-eighties the restaurant earned its Michelin star in the early years and has retained it until last year — a testament to consistency, dedication and love for the craft.
Today, Danny carries that legacy forward, combining hands-on hospitality with a deep passion for wine. His philosophy is simple: wine should be an experience, not a barrier. Through innovative by-the-glass offerings and the launch of the Koetshuis wine project Côte & Cave, he brings exceptional bottles from the cellar to both table and home.
Dutch Wine Apprentice proudly presents the second season of Chefs & Cellars, a podcast that brings listeners inside the kitchens, cellars, and philosophies of the most compelling restaurants in the Netherlands.
In each episode, we explore the stories behind exceptional cuisine and the wines that elevate it—from the people who dedicate their lives to both crafts.
You can read more about Chefs & Cellars here.
To listen to the fifth episode of our podcast head over to your favorite Podcast player. You can find us on: Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Music, YouTube Music or by adding our RSS feed. Be sure to subscribe to, and like, our podcast and stay tuned for further announcements.
Be sure to subscribe to, and like, our podcast as its online and stay tuned for further announcements.
For an in-depth exploration of Restaurant Het Koetshuis, including a review of the dishes and wines we enjoyed during our visit, click here.
Note: Unfortunately, Het Koetshuis has lost its Michelin star since the recording of our podcast. Currently they are working hard to regain their star, with improvements in the kitchen, service and the restaurant itself. We are very confident that their star will shine again soon!
Restaurant Het Koetshuis, nestled in the forests near Bennekom, is a quietly iconic Dutch fine dining destination where classical French cuisine, thoughtful wine pairings, and family heritage come together. In this Chefs & Cellars feature, we explore Danny Löhr’s philosophy on hospitality, Burgundy-driven wine culture, and a refined tasting menu that reflects nearly four decades of culinary craftsmanship in the Netherlands.
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