The Beautiful Promise

In the heart of the glorious city of Ath, in one of its many fine historic buildings, now lies L’Inattendu, like a newly discovered gem. After spending a few years just three metres away, on the other side of the street, Benjamin Fontaine and Amélie Sakowskis crossed over a little more than a year ago to move into this elegant, character-filled space.

They’ve reimagined the interior with style and care, turning it into a refined culinary jewel. Behind the majestic wooden door and beautiful facade, the dining room unfolds in a soft, graceful atmosphere — inviting calm, comfort, and delight.

Benjamin Fontaine, formerly of Château du Mylord and a loyal disciple of Benoît Neusy at L’Impératif, has succeeded in giving his culinary home a fresh and beautifully executed direction. His cuisine is precise yet generous, unconcerned with outdated formalities or fleeting trends — pleasure and taste are the only rules here.

From the very first bites, the thirty-something chef gently leads his guests into a sensory exploration: bitter, sweet, salty, sour. Thoughtfully orchestrated.
The journey continues with dishes that reveal a clear vision, technical skill, and heartfelt generosity : The Collinaria 2023 memory carrot ; Warm gravlax of char with sorrel and candied citrus ; Shredded oxtail with teriyaki eggplant ; Malines cuckoo chicken with vol-au-vent croquettes and Chinese chives ; Brillat-Savarin with Amarena cherry ; Rodenbach Grand Cru with cherry and rhubarb or apricot with Sauternes and basil.

In the end, even though L’Inattendu only crossed the street, the experience feels like a far greater journey. One of flavour, emotion, and light-hearted joy — a place you leave with your heart lifted.

More than a promise, this is a bold commitment. The shared talent and fierce determination of this young team point toward a bright and beautiful future.

LD