Team VanOost
Floris van Straalen
Executive Chef VanOost
At VanOost, Floris van Straalen’s culinary vision comes to life in every dish he creates. With a profound passion for vegetables and seafood, Floris curates innovative, world-inspired plates that are as visually captivating as they are delicious. His commitment to sustainability ensures that seasonal ingredients are transformed into fine dining experiences that transcend traditional cuisine.
Floris’ culinary journey began at the age of 15, when he took on a part-time role as a kitchen porter. What started as a humble beginning ignited his enduring love for the craft. Over the years, he refined his skills in celebrated kitchens, from Michelin-starred Oud Sluis to renowned establishments like Pure C and Vinkeles.
Guided by mentors such as Sergio Herman and Dennis Kuipers, Floris has always seen the world as both a classroom and a playground. His dishes draw inspiration from nature and culture.
With an unwavering drive to reinvent flavours and presentation, he offers more than just a meal—each dish is part of a story. At VanOost, dining becomes a curated experience that surprises and delights. Intrigued by the stories he tells through his food?
Uncover them at VanOost.
Q&A with Chef Floris van Straalen
What inspires your dishes at VanOost?
“I take inspiration from everything around me - nature, art, even the people I meet. I always begin with a story or an idea and translate that into flavours.”
What is your favourite ingredient to work with?
“Fish and vegetables, without a doubt. Their versatility, textures, and flavours allow for extraordinary transformations. They often surprise both the chef and the diner.”
What sets VanOost apart in the world of fine dining?
“At VanOost, we go beyond the food—it’s about creating an experience. I don’t see limits when it comes to combining flavours from different cuisines. While it’s not about creating fusion, I aim for something more refined and unexpected—a combination that surprises and excites the palate in a way that’s truly special. Every dish should feel like a discovery.”
Fenna Kentie
Fromagier & Maître
Fenna Kentie stands out for her meticulous cheese selection, emphasizing origin and production details. Her bold and creative choices will surprise you, and have positioned her as one of the leading fromagers in the Netherlands.