Alma Bodega

The story

Alma Bodega | Seasonal Contemporary Dining in Oisterwijk, Netherlands

Unwind at Alma Bodega

In the historic De Swaen building on De Lind in Oisterwijk, chef Wouter van Laarhoven runs not one but two restaurants. Upstairs is his fine dining destination; downstairs, Alma Bodega serves as an accessible and creative forerunner to that experience. Since November 2019, van Laarhoven has been building his dream here, and the bistro reflects his commitment to quality and hospitality in a relaxed, bistro-style setting.

Alma Bodega is a place to land at any time of day, whether for an unconstrained lunch, a flavourful dinner, or simply a good glass of wine with excellent snacks. The kitchen operates on an all-day concept, meaning you can enjoy freshly prepared dishes from the open kitchen from 12:00 onwards, Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations are welcome but not required.

The menu is built around contemporary, seasonal cuisine with a global accent. Choose from a wide range of small bites and larger plates. Start with an Irish Mór oyster with escabeche and coriander, a Kushiyaki of oxtail with lardo and duck liver, or the American "pancake" with Old Groendal cheese and truffle. Lunch specials include an Alma Caesar salad with chicken thigh and crispy skin, and a Japanese okonomiyaki. For larger appetites, there is Pulpo á la plancha with garlic and red pepper, a dry-aged Côte de boeuf for two, or a whole turbot (when available).

The wine list is interesting and well-chosen, and the atmosphere is deliberately social and welcoming. It is the kind of place where you can come with colleagues, friends, or your partner and eat well without fuss. If the experience appeals, the fine dining restaurant upstairs awaits.

Alma Bodega's approach has been recognized with a Michelin Recommended award, confirming its place among the noteworthy seasonal dining spots in the Netherlands.