The Netherlands offers no shortage of exceptional dining experiences, yet First stands apart—a hidden gem where the moment you cross the threshold, the world outside seems to pause. Here, in this intimate space shaped by care and craft, your day gently recedes, giving way to something more personal, more timeless.
At the heart of First is the seamless harmony between Chef John and his wife, Monique. In the kitchen, John brings a quiet mastery to each dish—thoughtful, seasonal, always with a sense of place. There is nothing hurried, nothing superfluous. Just the kind of cooking that reveals itself slowly, with confidence and soul.
In the dining room, Monique curates a wine selection that does more than complement the menu—it elevates it. Her pairings are intuitive, precise, and deeply knowledgeable, yet never imposing. She has that rare gift of reading a table, knowing exactly when to guide and when to simply let you enjoy.
By the end of the evening, you’ll find yourself lingering—not out of reluctance to return to the world, but because First feels like home. A home built not of bricks and beams, but of warmth, welcome, and the unmistakable pleasure of being truly looked after. #first #restaurantfirstzeist #portugal #zeist #enjoy
Winewriter Janna Rijpma Meppelink and Chef John Stoffers.
