ROTTERDAM, 16 October 2024 – A new culinary experience is set to take Rotterdam’s dining scene to new heights as Celest prepares to open its restaurant and bar atop De Zalmhaven tower. The menu will focus on local ingredients, served with views that span the city skyline.
Michelin expertise comes to Celest in Rotterdam
Celest, the highly anticipated restaurant and bar located on the 57th and 58th floors of De Zalmhaven in Rotterdam, is nearing its final stages of development. The kitchen team, led by chef Lars Drost, brings Michelin-level expertise to the table, aiming to serve refined dishes crafted from primarily local ingredients.
The ambitious kitchen team includes two sous chefs, Frank van Rijsbergen and Leonardo Sussi, both of whom have backgrounds in high-end dining. Drost, who previously worked as a sous chef at the two-Michelin-starred Ciel Bleu in Amsterdam, explains that the strength of the team lies in the combined experience of its members. “When you're working with such skilled sous chefs, everyone brings a few people from their network, which naturally creates a strong team,” says Drost. He adds that working at Celest involves becoming an ambassador for the concept, with each team member committed to delivering an exceptional culinary experience.
Local ingredients, global cuisine
Celest’s kitchen team will offer both à la carte and seasonal menus at the restaurant on the 58th floor. Guests can expect international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Drost emphasises that the team’s approach is different from traditional sourcing methods: “Instead of purchasing what is already harvested, we work directly with local suppliers ahead of time to secure the freshest ingredients. This way, our menu can constantly evolve, offering something new for returning guests.”
Meanwhile, the bar on the 57th floor will be open from 10:00 in the morning, offering an array of drinks and light meals that cater to different times of the day. Guests can also enjoy a selection of cocktails while taking in one of the most panoramic views of Rotterdam.
Zalmhaventoren meets moon. Photo credit: Kimo Grashuis
A nod to Rotterdam’s history
Celest’s concept is deeply rooted in local culture. The restaurant is inspired by “The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall,” a short story by Edgar Allan Poe that tells the tale of a Rotterdammer who embarks on a journey to the moon in a homemade balloon. Elements from this story are subtly woven into the dining experience at Celest. Drost notes that the narrative of Hans Pfaall is reflected not only in the restaurant’s décor but also in the dishes themselves, leaving it to visitors to discover how.
The restaurant is set to open later in 2024, although the exact date depends on the completion of renovation works. However, it has been confirmed that Celest will welcome its first guests before the holiday season.
About the location: De Zalmhaven
De Zalmhaven is situated in Rotterdam’s Scheepvaartkwartier, one of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Rising above the city, the tower offers some of the best views in the region. It is easily accessible via public transport, with tram and metro stops nearby, and parking facilities are also available. For those planning to visit Celest, the unique setting atop Rotterdam’s tallest building promises a memorable experience.
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