Celebrated Chefs Return to the Culinary Scene With New Alken Eatery
Three years after making the surprising announcement that they were closing their acclaimed Hasselt restaurant, 6 Zinnen, culinary power couple Jan Wouters and Karoline Juvyns are back. Their brand new gastronomic destination, Eenig, is set to open its doors in Alken, promising a menu that celebrates classic dishes with a modern twist, using the freshest local and regional ingredients.
A Bittersweet Farewell, a Promise of Return
The closure of 6 Zinnen in July 2022 sent shockwaves through the culinary community. The duo had cultivated a loyal following, known for their exceptional dining experiences and commitment to showcasing the best of Belgian cuisine. While the decision to close came as a surprise, Jan and Karoline explained it was time to embark on a new chapter.
A New Beginning Takes Shape
Following the closure, speculation swirled about the couple’s next move. Would they join another established establishment, or would they venture into a new, independent project? Ultimately, Jan and Karoline chose to forge their own path, acquiring the former De Kleine Keyzer building on Steenweg in Alken.
The past 18 months have been dedicated to a meticulous renovation, transforming the space into a haven of culinary elegance. “After a few setbacks, but especially after a lot of hard work, we are very happy to announce the opening,” say Jan and Karoline.
Eenig: A Culinary Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation
Eenig, which translates to “unity,” reflects the couple’s vision of creating a harmonious blend of culinary traditions and modern techniques.
The menu, a testament to Jan’s culinary artistry, promises to delight diners with its artful interpretation of classic dishes, meticulously crafted using the finest locally sourced ingredients. Karoline, known for her warm hospitality and impeccable service, will once again be overseeing the front of house, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable dining experience.
Eenig will officially open its doors on January 8th. For diners eager to experience the next chapter in Jan and Karoline’s culinary journey, reservations can be made via their Instagram page: @restaurant_eenig.
What inspired Chef Jan Wouters to return to the culinary scene after the closure of 6 Zinnen?
## From Farewell to Fresh Starts: An Interview with Jan Wouters
**Today, we are delighted to welcome celebrated Chef Jan Wouters back to the culinary scene. After the unexpected closure of your acclaimed restaurant, 6 Zinnen, in 2022, many were left wondering about the future of your culinary journey. Now, with the exciting announcement of your new venture, Eenig, in Alken, can you tell us what inspired this return?**
**Jan Wouters:** Thank you for having me. The closure of 6 Zinnen was indeed a difficult decision, one driven by personal reasons. However, Karoline and I never truly lost our passion for creating exceptional dining experiences. We spent the past three years reflecting, recharging, and ultimately, reimagining what we wanted to offer the culinary world.
**Eenig promises a menu that blends classic dishes with a modern touch. Can you elaborate on this concept and what diners can expect?**
**Jan Wouters:** At Eenig, we aim to celebrate culinary heritage while embracing innovation. We’ll be revisiting beloved classics, reinterpreting them with fresh perspectives and incorporating seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Think familiar flavors elevated through modern techniques and artistic presentation.
**Many are excited to see what you and Karoline will create in this new chapter. What can you tell us about the atmosphere and dining experience at Eenig?**
**Jan Wouters:** We envision Eenig as a warm and inviting space where guests feel truly welcome. We’ll be focusing on creating a comfortable and intimate ambiance, allowing diners to savor not just the food but the entire experience.
**We wish you both the best of luck with Eenig. Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our viewers?**
**Jan Wouters:** We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received throughout our careers. We can’t wait to share our passion for food and hospitality with the community in Alken and beyond.
