Richard van Oostenbrugge is one of the leading chefs in the Netherlands, the co-founder of 212, the two-Michelin-star ‘no-table’ fine-dining bar in Amsterdam. Together with his partner Thomas Groot, he created a bold new format in which guests sit around an open kitchen, and built a reputation for striking seafood dishes, savoury ice creams and remarkable sauces.
After winning two stars at Bord’Eau, Van Oostenbrugge struck out on his own to reinvent the fine-dining experience, and quickly took 212 to the top of Amsterdam gastronomy.
TL;DR
- Dutch chef, born in 1975
- Co-founder of the two-Michelin-star 212 in Amsterdam
- 212 is the Netherlands’ first ‘no-table’ fine-dining bar
- Earlier won two stars at Bord’Eau with Thomas Groot
- Known for seafood, savoury ice creams and striking sauces
Richard van Oostenbrugge key facts
| Born | 1975, Netherlands |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Restaurant | 212, Amsterdam (2 Michelin stars) |
| With | Thomas Groot |
| Known for | Seafood; ‘no-table’ fine dining |
From Bord’Eau to his own name
Richard van Oostenbrugge and his collaborator Thomas Groot first crossed paths in 2008 at the restaurant Envy, and later at Bord’Eau, where they earned their first Michelin star in 2013 and a second in 2014. That success gave them the confidence to strike out and create something entirely new.
212
In 2018 they launched 212 in Amsterdam – the Netherlands’ first ‘no-table’ fine-dining bar. There are no tables at all: guests sit on seats arranged around the open kitchen, facing the chefs, allowing a free flow of interaction between cook and diner. The concept was a first in the country and an immediate success.
Two stars
212 earned its first Michelin star within a year of opening and a second by 2021. The restaurant is renowned for fish and seafood, savoury ice creams and striking sauces, along with surprising dishes designed to startle the palate. Van Oostenbrugge and Groot also oversee other Amsterdam venues, including De Juwelier and La Mer.
Signature style
Van Oostenbrugge’s style is precise, playful and seafood-driven, delivered in an intimate, interactive setting. He is known for bold flavours, savoury takes on ice cream and exceptional sauces, and for a format that breaks down the barrier between kitchen and guest. It is a fresh, contemporary vision of fine dining.
Richard van Oostenbrugge in context
Van Oostenbrugge is one of the leading Dutch chefs featured on Pickup Table 4, alongside Ron Blaauw and Jacob Jan Boerma.
Follow Richard van Oostenbrugge
Restaurant 212 – official site
Richard van Oostenbrugge FAQ
Who is Richard van Oostenbrugge?
A Dutch chef, co-founder of the two-Michelin-star 212 in Amsterdam.
What is 212?
The Netherlands’ first ‘no-table’ fine-dining bar, with seats around the kitchen.
How many Michelin stars does it have?
Two, reached by 2021.
Who is his partner?
Chef Thomas Groot, with whom he runs 212.
What is it known for?
Seafood, savoury ice creams and striking sauces.
