Karin Smits is the heart and soul of De Luytervelde. She has been welcoming guests at this converted farmhouse (1912) just outside the city centre since 1992. Diners are smitten with the stylish decor and delightful garden terrace, but the main focus remains, of course, the modern interpretation of classic flavours and the well-curated wine list. The chef will expertly fry a veal sweetbread until golden brown and knock up a robust sauce Périgueux, but he is just as adept at giving venison an exotic twist with five-spice powder. A perennial favourite!