Vividu

The story

Vividu: Italian Cuisine Reimagined in Harelbeke, Near Kortrijk

A Personal Take on Italian Tradition

In Harelbeke, just outside Kortrijk, Vividu makes a deliberate statement: "We are not Italian." This is not a disclaimer but a declaration of intent. The restaurant does not copy the Italian kitchen—it rethinks it. By stripping away the superfluous and strengthening what matters—simplicity, warmth, and purity—Vividu offers a Mediterranean and Italian dining experience that is deeply personal and unmistakably its own. This thoughtful approach has earned the restaurant a place in the Michelin guide, a recognition that aligns with its philosophy of doing things differently.

The Menu: Structure and Seasonality

The menu at Vividu is built around clear, seasonal offerings. On Wednesday and Friday afternoons, a lunch menu is served for 28 euros, always beginning with amuses and bread. The dishes change weekly, with recent offerings including battuta di manzo (steak tartare) and spaghetti vongole.

For dinner, guests can choose between the à la carte or the Esperienza tasting menu. The à la carte is available Tuesday through Friday, while the full Esperienza experience is reserved for Saturday evenings and groups of five or more. The Esperienza menu, priced at 75 euros, might include dishes like bimi with bottarga and pistachio, or pici pasta with vernaccia and pecorino. The à la carte is structured in the classic Italian format: antipasti to share, such as putanesca with salsiccia and anchovy; primi like tagliolini al tartufo or gnocchi with zeekraal and caviar; and secondi including filetto or anatra (duck) with blood orange. Desserts feature a zabaglione with Marsala and strawberry, or a selection of five cheeses from Van Tricht.

Atmosphere and Accessibility

Vividu is a place where the love for Italian cuisine is shared with care and conviction. The restaurant is easily reachable via the Stasegemsesteenweg and offers ample parking. With outdoor seating available, it is a welcoming spot for those seeking a refined yet unpretentious meal. The team asks guests to communicate allergies and intolerances in advance, as last-minute changes to dishes cannot be guaranteed.