Star restaurant Souvenir closes after 11 years in Ghent

In Belgium, the renowned restaurant Souvenir in Ghent has closed its doors after 11 successful years. Founded in 2013 by Joke Michiels and Vilhjálmur "Villi" Sigurdarson, Souvenir quickly gained recognition for its exceptional dining experience, earning a Michelin star and high accolades from Gault&Millau. The couple's dedication to using seasonal ingredients and sustainable practices was a significant factor in their restaurant's popularity. Despite their success, the decision to close was not prompted by issues but rather a natural conclusion to their venture. Both Michiels and Sigurdarson acknowledged the difficulties of maintaining a balance between their demanding professional lives and family responsibilities. While they cherished their time at Souvenir, the stress associated with running a high-caliber restaurant took its toll on their personal lives. Throughout the years, they faced numerous challenges, including financial hardships in the restaurant's early days, where they had to build the establishment themselves and struggled to fund the necessary equipment. Yet, their passion for gastronomy and commitment to guest satisfaction ultimately guided their operations. However, the demanding nature of the restaurant industry, often described as a rollercoaster, made it increasingly difficult to manage personal health and family dynamics. The closure of Souvenir marks not only an end to a storied chapter for the couple but also resonates with the broader themes of the sacrifices made by restaurateurs. While the future plans of Michiels and Sigurdarson remain unknown, their journey remains a testament to the dedication and resilience of those who choose to pursue a career in gastronomy.