GEM: A GATEWAY TO STILLNESS AND NATURE

words by NATALIE GAL

Just a short escape from Eindhoven lies GEM, the latest culinary venture from Michelin-starred chef Soenil Bahadoer, is hidden within the historic Kasteel Gemert estate. Surrounded by tranquil gardens GEM offers an unique experience rooted in nature and heritage.

The journey begins with a walk through the estate’s gardens, plucking courgettes, tasting peppery radishes, and gathering edible flowers. It's a truly rare soil-to-table moment that sets the tone for what’s to come.

Inside, the Piet Boon-designed space exudes understated elegance. Natural light, warm tones, and minimalist design place the focus on the plate and the four-course journey.

The four-course menu opens with “Langoustine-Hamachi-Turmeric”: a fresh hamachi tartare with crisp Granny Smith apple and Oscietra caviar, followed by a gently torched langoustine, paired with turmeric foam, puffed wild rice, and kaffir lime. Next, “Turbot-Bok Choy-Masala” brings grilled pak choi, wild garlic crème, and a surprising shrimp pakora alongside perfectly cooked turbot. The interplay of Indian spices and Dutch produce is seamless.

While the main course, “Lamb-Chokha-Medina”, features tender lamb filet with chokha and bright garden peas. A side of pita stuffed with lamb stew and chutney is rustic and unique. Finally, dessert is “Passionfruit-Mango-Coconut”, a composition of coconut lemongrass ice cream, mango-pepper compote, and airy white chocolate mousse. A perfect, light finish to the dinner. 

We so often forget to reconnect with nature, forget that we’re a part of it, not apart from it. GEM is a gentle reminder to slow down, reconnect with the land, and truly savour.