After three decades of culinary excellence, Soenil Bahadoer, the celebrated chef behind the two-star restaurant de Lindehof in Nuenen, has announced his departure. The doors of his beloved establishment will close on May 1, marking the end of an era. Bahadoer, known for his innovative fusion of Surinamese-Hindustani and French-Dutch cuisines, is stepping away to embark on a new, undisclosed venture.
In an exclusive interview with De Telegraaf, Bahadoer hinted at ambitious plans that will ”surprise everyone at home and even abroad.” While he remains tight-lipped about the specifics, he assures that his next chapter will carry a Surinamese touch. “My new adventure will certainly have a Surinamese touch,” he revealed.
The decision to close De Lindehof was not an easy one. Bahadoer expressed his emotional struggle, stating, “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 plans to send a letter to all regular guests on Friday to inform them of his decision.
Bahadoer’s journey with De Lindehof began 30 years ago, and his passion for cooking quickly earned the restaurant its first Michelin star in 2004. By 2014, it had secured a second star, cementing its place in the culinary world. His unique approach to integrating spices, herbs, and ingredients into a harmonious whole earned him the title of Chef of the Year in 2019 by Gault&Millau. The jury praised him as “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.”
Though, Bahadoer’s path was not without challenges. Until nine years ago, he co-owned De Lindehof with his ex-wife, who held 25 percent of the shares. The couple’s inability to divide assets led to years of legal battles. His ex-wife’s negative social media posts culminated in a 2023 lawsuit, where a judge ruled she could no longer post hate messages on Facebook or YouTube.
As De Lindehof prepares to close, Bahadoer’s next move remains shrouded in mystery. Yet, one thing is certain: his culinary legacy will continue, infused with the flavors of his Surinamese heritage.
Key Highlights of soenil Bahadoer’s Journey
| Event | Year | Details |
| Opening of De Lindehof | 1994 | Bahadoer combines surinamese-Hindustani and French-Dutch cuisines.|
| First Michelin Star | 2004 | recognition of culinary excellence. |
| Second Michelin star | 2014 | Further acclaim for innovative fusion cuisine. |
| Chef of the Year | 2019 | Awarded by Gault&Millau for his unique culinary integration. |
| Closure of De Lindehof | 2024 | Bahadoer steps away to pursue a new, Surinamese-inspired venture. |
For more insights into Bahadoer’s illustrious career, explore his journey from De Lindehof to being crowned Chef of the Year. Additionally, learn about the legal battles that shaped his recent years, including the ruling against his ex-wife’s social media posts.
As the culinary world awaits Bahadoer’s next move, one thing is clear: his legacy of innovation and passion will continue to inspire. Stay tuned for his upcoming proclamation, and discover how his Surinamese heritage will shape his new adventure.
