Chefs and Cellars S01E06 – Restaurant Fred, Axel and Daniël  

Chefs and Cellars S01E06 – Restaurant Fred, Axel & Daniël.

Welcome to the sixth episode and season finale of Chefs & Cellars, the culinary podcast by Dutch Wine Apprentice.  

In this episode, we visit Restaurant Fred in Rotterdam, where we sit down with Fred’s sommelier duo Axel Rosier and Daniël Gravesteijn.

This 2 Michelin Star Gem in Rotterdam has been at the top of the Dutch culinary scene for years now, and has found a new home in the center of city, where everything is about space and luxury. But rest assured, Chef Fred Mustert’s mantra is still the same, nobody leaves the restaurant with hunger! Here beauty is combined with soul filled food, and innovation goes hand in hand with the classics.

As far as the wines are concerned, this section remains in the hands of two top sommeliers; Axel Rosier and Daniël Gravesteijn. 

Restaurant Fred

Step into the refined world of Restaurant Fred in Rotterdam, where culinary artistry meets the precision of expert wine pairing. With two Michelin stars and a bold new location in the heart of the city, Restaurant Fred is a celebration of finesse, flavor, and flair.

Under the direction of Chef Fred Mustert, the kitchen presents light, seafood-focused dishes elevated by inventive sauces that surprise and delight. From hamachi and caviar to sea bass with bergamot beurre blanc, each plate is a meticulously crafted performance.

The restaurant’s recent move to a spacious new venue—nestled between Rotterdam’s iconic bridges—signals an exciting new chapter. More than just a relocation, it reflects a commitment to evolving the dining experience while remaining true to its roots. Chef Mustert’s philosophy remains unchanged: no guest leaves hungry. Here, beauty is paired with soulful cuisine, and innovation harmonizes with timeless classics.

2-star Michelin Chef Fred Mustert and his wife Mirjam.
2-star Michelin Chef Fred Mustert and his wife Mirjam.

The Sommelier Duo, Axel and Daniël

At Restaurant Fred, wine isn’t just a pairing—it’s a conversation. Sommelier duo Axel Rosier and Daniël Gravesteijn approach their craft with intellect, curiosity, and a touch of audacity. Their selections are rooted in a deep respect for terroir and producer philosophy, often spotlighting winemakers who challenge conventions across both the Old and New World.

With a wine list boasting over 1,100 labels, Axel and Daniël curate a global wine journey offered through three distinct pairing tiers. Each pairing is thoughtfully designed to enhance the narrative of the cuisine—striking a seamless balance between creativity, structure, and personal expression.

At the heart of the restaurant’s new location lies a striking built-in wine room, where Axel and Daniël personally present their current favorites to guests. More than a showcase, it’s a stage for storytelling, adding another layer of connection between the diner, the wine, and the people behind it.

Daniel Gravesteijn and Axel Rosier, the Sommelier duo at Fred.
Daniël Gravesteijn and Axel Rosier, the Sommelier duo at Fred.

Chefs and Cellars, The Heart of Fine Dining and Wine

The creators of Dutch Wine Apprentice are excited to announce their newest podcast series, “Chefs and Cellars”. This captivating podcast takes listeners on an exclusive journey into the heart of the Dutch restaurant scene, where exceptional cuisine meets the finest wines.

You can read more about Chefs and Cellars here.

Tune in now!

To listen to the sixth and final episode of this season head over to your favorite Podcast player. You can find us on: SpotifyApple PodcastAmazon MusicYouTube 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 Fred click here.

Restaurant Fred, Axel Rosier & Daniel Gravesteijn.