25 YEARS.. PASSION FOR THE CRAFT
“On Tuesday, 11 September 2001, I got the green light from the bank to take over Bistro Intermezzo at 5 Tongersestraat. I came home feeling excited and happy, only to find my husband Frans staring at the television in disbelief. ‘The world is ending,’ he said, as footage of the attacks on the Twin Towers played on screen.”
“That was the beginning of 25 years of Wijnrestaurant Mes Amis, without knowing what joys and challenges still lay ahead.”
Adversity and pride
“The euro crisis, the banking crisis, the loss of my husband Frans and the two lockdowns during the COVID pandemic: fortunately, alongside those difficult times, there were also countless wonderful moments.”
“A few years ago, we were named Maastricht’s most hospitable restaurant, and Limburg’s winemakers honoured me with the title ‘Ambassador of Limburg Wines’. The restaurant underwent a major renovation, Patriek became co-owner, and together with Germaine we organised wonderful events such as Wijnrestaurant op het Land and Noorbeek op de Kaart.”
Photo: Annaline at the opening of Wijnrestaurant Mes Amis in 2001
“Now, 25 years later, I can say: I can happily let go!
I am incredibly proud of Patriek, who is continuing the restaurant with so much enthusiasm and energy. He has built a wonderful team around him that shares his focus on quality and hospitality. I wish him many wonderful years ahead, surrounded by lots of lovely guests.”
