In a delightful fusion of Belgian culinary artistry and Monegasque elegance, Le Méridien Beach Plaza in Monaco has unveiled an exciting collaboration between its Belgian brasserie, Smakelijk!, and the renowned Frites Atelier. This partnership promises to elevate the gastronomic scene of the Principality, offering both locals and visitors an exquisite taste of Belgium’s most cherished comfort food—fries.
A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
Smakelijk!, which opened its doors in February 2024, has quickly become a favourite among those seeking authentic Belgian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Nestled by the serene Mediterranean Sea, the brasserie draws inspiration from traditional Belgian breweries, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its culinary offerings. The menu, crafted by culinary director Laurent Colin and executive chef Alexandre Lamberet, features classics like Liège meatballs and organic poultry vol-au-vent, each dish paying homage to Belgium’s rich culinary heritage.
The integration of Frites Atelier into Smakelijk!‘s menu is a natural progression. Founded in 2016 by Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman, Frites Atelier has redefined the art of fries, transforming a simple side dish into a gourmet experience. After 18 months of meticulous research and testing, Herman introduced fries that are delectably soft on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside, using the finest Dutch potatoes. This dedication to quality has positioned Frites Atelier as a pioneer in the “loaded fries” concept, offering a variety of innovative toppings that tantalize the taste buds.
A Symphony of Flavours
Guests at Smakelijk! can now indulge in a selection of Frites Atelier’s signature creations, each thoughtfully designed to offer a unique flavor journey:
• Shredded Beef: Succulent beef paired with red chimichurri mayonnaise and crispy fried onions, delivering a harmonious blend of savoury and tangy notes.
• Mussel Aioli with Saffron: An ode to the sea, this topping combines marinated mussels with a creamy saffron-infused aioli, offering a rich and aromatic experience.
• Caramelized BBQ Pork Loin: Tender pork loin glazed with a smoky barbecue sauce, providing a delightful contrast of sweet and savoury flavors.
• 18-Month Parmesan & Fresh Truffle: For those seeking indulgence, this topping features aged Parmesan and freshly shaved truffle, adding a luxurious touch to the crispy fries.
• Revisited Nachos: A playful twist on a classic, this version includes American Jack Daniel’s cheese, crispy bacon, pickles, and jalapeños, offering a spicy and creamy delight.
A Vision for Global Expansion
This collaboration also marks a significant milestone in Frites Atelier’s journey towards global recognition. In November 2024, Sergio Herman announced that Frites Atelier would be joining the Giraudi Group, known for its innovative concepts like Beefbar and Song Qi. This partnership aims to expand Frites Atelier’s presence worldwide, bringing their gourmet fries to new audiences.
An Invitation to Indulge
For those eager to embark on this culinary adventure, Smakelijk! at Le Méridien Beach Plaza welcomes guests daily from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. Whether you’re a local or a traveller seeking new flavours, this collaboration offers a unique opportunity to savour the best of Belgian cuisine in the heart of Monaco. Reservations can be made by calling +377 93 15 78 88.
