Restaurant EST

Restaurant EST was inaugurated in 2025 on the historic site of the former Restaurant Arenberg, a Michelin-starred institution that held its star continuously since 2001 under the guidance of chef Lieven Demeestere. After 30 years, the Demeestere family passed the torch to the next generation — son Abel and his wife Laurence — who undertook a full renovation of the 17th-century former Jesuit farmhouse to create a timeless and elegant new dining concept. Gault&Millau immediately named EST Remarkable Newcomer of the Year and awarded three toques. The menu is anchored in classical technique while embracing contemporary refinement: signature preparations include meunière-cooked langoustine with walnut and quinoa, and turbot baked in farm butter with cauliflower textures and a dashi-enriched beurre blanc. The wine cellar, curated with exceptional care, includes an impressive range of French labels. The restaurant’s location within the lush Arenberg estate, close to KU Leuven’s science campus and the magnificent Arenberg Castle, makes it one of the most atmospheric fine dining destinations in Belgium. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, EST is open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner services.