Locàle by Kok au Vin

The story

Locàle by Kok au Vin | Country Cooking in Brugge, Belgium

A relaxed spin-off with roots in Kok au Vin

Locàle by Kok au Vin occupies a quiet spot on Ezelstraat in Bruges, a world away from the bustle of the market squares. This is country cooking with a contemporary edge – seasonal, organic, and deeply rooted in the Flemish landscape. The restaurant is the younger sibling of the well-known Kok au Vin, born from chef-owner Jürgen Aerts’s desire to slow down and reconnect with guests after the pandemic.

Chefs who honour the origin

Jürgen Aerts, a sommelier for 25 years, runs the front of house with a natural warmth. In the kitchen, chef Hendrik Dequeker – seven years in the Kok au Vin brigade – now leads. Together they form a dynamic duo: Jürgen’s hospitality and Hendrik’s pure, focused cooking. Their philosophy is simple: take your time and honour the origin. That means long-term relationships with local suppliers, seasonal and organic produce, and dishes built on honest flavours rather than unnecessary complexity.

Sharing, not showing off

The atmosphere is intimate and unhurried. Locàle encourages sharing – plates designed to pass around the table, each bite a surprise. This is not formal dining; it is country cooking that feels both elevated and effortless. The space itself is understated, with counter seating and a warm, almost homely feel. Guests can choose from à la carte dishes or let the chefs decide.

Recognition for honest cooking

Locàle’s commitment to pure flavours and local sourcing has not gone unnoticed. The restaurant carries a Michelin Recommended award, a nod to its consistent quality and thoughtful hospitality. For those seeking a genuine taste of Belgian country cooking in an unpretentious setting, Locàle delivers exactly what its name promises: a place that feels local in the best sense of the word.