Restaurant Smink in Wolvega and Landgoed Lauswolt’s Heeren van Harinxma in Beetsterzwaag have retained their Michelin stars in the latest annual guide reveal. For top chefs and their teams, holding the most prestigious distinction in gastronomy serves as both the crown jewel of their work and an essential tool for brand awareness, with chefs noting that losing the designation creates immediate business difficulties.
Jan Smink, the 38-year-old owner who runs Restaurant Makeup with his wife Anne, received the honor for the fourth time. Speaking on the return journey from Maastricht where the ceremony took place alongside his wife, Smink admitted he did not know until the announcement whether his establishment would secure the star for the upcoming year, pointing out that several large and renowned businesses lost their stars during the reveal.
Success for Heeren van Harinxma
In Beetsterzwaag, 41-year-old chef Seb Smit of Lords of Harinxma experienced similar tension despite having other obligations on Monday. Kept informed by colleagues, Smit noted that uncertainty always looms regarding the outcome, though a stable team prevented sleepless nights ahead of the announcement. His intuition proved correct as the restaurant, operating as part of Landgoed Lauswolt, secured its star for the eleventh consecutive year.
The Impact of Gastronomic Recognition
Securing the recognition carries deep personal and professional weight for the culinary teams. Smink described the distinction as extremely important for both his company and himself personally. Meanwhile, Smit emphasized the dedication required behind the scenes, stating that while they hold the greatest job in the world, the heavy labor involved makes the official recognition a welcome reward.
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