After three decades of culinary excellence, renowned chef Soenil Bahadoer has announced the closure of his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, De Lindehof, in Nuenen. The iconic establishment will shut its doors on May 1, 2025, as Bahadoer embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career. While details of his next venture remain under wraps, the chef hints at aspiring plans that promise to “surprise everyone at home adn even abroad.”
In a heartfelt statement,bahadoer shared his mixed emotions about the decision. “Unfortunately, I can’t say anything about it yet, but it won’t be long before I can be open about things. The first step I have to take now is to quit De Lindehof,” he revealed. The chef plans to notify his loyal patrons through a personal letter, acknowledging the difficulty of the choice. “I obviously do this with pain in my heart. After all, I gave everything to this restaurant; it was and is my life. But where doors close, others open again,” he added.
“Like no other, he integrates spices, herbs, and ingredients into a harmonious and unique whole.”
De Lindehof has been a cornerstone of Bahadoer’s career since its opening 30 years ago. With a passion for blending his Surinamese-hindustani heritage with French-Dutch culinary traditions, the chef quickly gained recognition. His innovative approach earned the restaurant its first Michelin star in 2004, followed by a second in 2014. Reflecting on this milestone, Bahadoer remarked, “And that caught on; in 2014, we received our second star.”
In 2019, Bahadoer’s dedication was further celebrated when he was named ‘Chef of the Year’ by the prestigious GaultMillau guide. The jury lauded his remarkable talent, stating, “A chef who has been operating in the highest regions for years. Like no other, he integrates spices, herbs, and ingredients into a harmonious and unique whole. Credit where credit is due.”
However, Bahadoer’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. For years, he co-owned De Lindehof with his ex-wife, holding 75% of the shares. Their inability to divide assets led to prolonged legal disputes,culminating in a 2023 court ruling that barred his ex-wife from posting negative messages about him on social media. Despite these personal struggles, Bahadoer remained focused on his craft.
“My new adventure will certainly have a Surinamese touch.”
As De Lindehof prepares to close, Bahadoer looks ahead to his next endeavor, promising a continuation of his culinary legacy. “One thing is clear: my new adventure will certainly have a Surinamese touch,” he affirmed. While specifics remain undisclosed, the chef’s commitment to innovation and cultural fusion ensures that his next chapter will be as remarkable as his last.
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Archyde Exclusive interview: A Culinary Farewell and New Beginnings wiht Chef Soenil Bahadoer
By Archys, Archyde News Editor
in the world of gastronomy, few names resonate as profoundly as Soenil Bahadoer. For three decades, his two-Michelin-starred restaurant, De Lindehof, has been a beacon of culinary excellence in Nuenen, Netherlands. However, as the sun sets on this iconic establishment, Chef Bahadoer is poised to embark on a new chapter in his storied career.
We sat down with the celebrated chef to discuss his journey, the bittersweet decision to close De Lindehof, and his enterprising plans for the future.
Archyde: Chef Bahadoer, thank you for joining us. After 30 years of culinary mastery at De Lindehof, you’ve announced its closure. How are you feeling about this decision?
Chef Bahadoer: Thank you for having me. It’s a mix of emotions, to be honest. De Lindehof has been my life’s work, my passion, and my home. Closing its doors is like saying goodbye to a part of myself. But simultaneously occurring, I feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.
Archyde: What led to this decision?
Chef Bahadoer: It wasn’t an easy choice. De Lindehof has been a place of joy, creativity, and connection for so many people—myself included. But after 30 years, I felt it was time to explore new horizons. the culinary world is constantly evolving, and I want to challenge myself in ways I haven’t before.
Archyde: You’ve hinted at “aspiring plans” that will “surprise everyone at home and even abroad.” Can you share more about what’s next?
Chef Bahadoer: (laughs) I wish I could say more, but I want to keep some mystery alive. What I can say is that this next chapter will be a departure from what I’ve done before.It’s something I’ve been dreaming about for years,and I believe it will resonate not just with my loyal guests in the Netherlands but with a global audience as well.
Archyde: De lindehof has been a cornerstone of your career. What are some of your most cherished memories from your time there?
Chef Bahadoer: Oh, there are so many. From the early days when we were just finding our footing to the moment we earned our second Michelin star—it’s been a journey filled with incredible moments. But what I treasure most are the connections we’ve made. The guests who became friends, the team that became family, and the countless stories shared over a meal. That’s what I’ll carry with me.
Archyde: What do you hope your legacy will be?
Chef Bahadoer: I hope people remember De Lindehof as a place where they felt at home, where every dish told a story, and where they experienced something truly special. For me, it was never just about the food—it was about creating moments that lingered long after the last bite.
Archyde: As you prepare to close this chapter, what message would you like to share with your guests and the culinary community?
Chef Bahadoer: Gratitude. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported De Lindehof over the years—our guests,our team,and the community that embraced us. This isn’t the end; it’s a new beginning. And I hope you’ll join me on this next adventure.
Archyde: Thank you, Chef Bahadoer, for sharing your story with us. We can’t wait to see what’s next for you.
Chef Bahadoer: Thank you. The best is yet to come.
as Chef Soenil Bahadoer prepares to bid farewell to De Lindehof, the culinary world watches with bated breath, eager to see where his boundless creativity and passion will take him next. One thing is certain: his legacy will continue to inspire, and his next venture is sure to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Stay tuned to Archyde for updates on Chef Bahadoer’s next chapter.
