Walking the Brunch - European Catering Conference!

Divided into several groups, the attendants experienced the ’Walking the Brunch’ through the city by foot and by buss. The caterers visited a few of Maastricht’s most interesting food and beverage concepts: Thiessen Wijnkopers (Wine), Bisschopsmolen (Bread), Kruisherenhotel (Champaign and Caviar) and Koffiebranderij Blanche Dael (Coffee).

Thiessen Wijnkopers, the eldest wine merchant in the Netherlands, founded in 1740. At Thiessen the marveous and fully restored wine cellars at the historic premises in the heart of Maastricht are many centuries old. They have been used for storing wine since the early 18th century. Traditional methods are highly valued. The extended cellars are unique in the Netherlands.

Bisschopsmolen, is an age-old watermill that is still operational. A bakery which uses traditional methods of preparation, where they demonstrate that bakin bread is an art at daily basis. Besides that, the traditional regional pastry called 'vlaai' tastes best prepared with love and only the very best of local products. The ancient grain Spelt is the main component, which the Bisschopsmolen uses in their bread.

Blanche Dael Coffeelovers, Maastricht has its own micro coffee roaster: Blanche Dael, since 1878. The regional supplier of hand crafted coffee and tea to cafés and restaurants in the Southern part of the province. In 2000, the company started their own chain of coffee bars called Blanche Dael Coffeelovers.

Kruisherenhotel, is a former Kruisheren cloister. Together with the monumental gothic church, this complex has been transformed into a very special designer hotel. Throughout the hotel one can find the designs of masters such as Le Corbusier and Rietveld, as well as modern designers like Philippe Stark and Roderick Vos. These designs from exciting contrasts with the stained glass windows and the authentic wall and ceiling paintings. 

While enjoying a beverage, a small bite to eat and a word by ambassadors of the companies, the guests got pleasure from these inspiring concepts. This little trend tour added value to the experience of the caterers, who attended the European Catering Conference by providing them the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes on a private tour at each venue.  After two days of “New Thinking” the European Catering Conference came to an end at the Maastricht City Hall with a passionate word of council member of Economic affairs, John Aarts.