About

A place for all of Wichelen

  • A view of the Scheldt, with a church tower in the distance

Where so many of you got married, celebrated anniversaries, threw First Communion parties or said goodbye to loved ones, lies not only a piece of my family's history, but of yours too. For generations, families came together here to celebrate special moments, make memories, support one another and share milestones.

That is exactly what makes this place so special. It carries not only the stories of my parents and grandparents, but also those of so many people from Wichelen and the surrounding area. And because my family looked after this place with care and hospitality for so many years, it doesn't feel right to me to simply leave you to your fate.

Hello, I'm Lies Van Steendam

20 years old

  • The whole family, three generations together, by the Scheldt
  • Me as a girl, between my grandparents
  • A summer evening, smiling with eyes closed

My parents taught me not to wait for someone else to get things moving for me, but to roll up my sleeves myself. And that hospitality goes further than welcoming people. It is in observing, getting to know people, remembering who they are and making sure they feel at home.

My dad sometimes says:

“Never stand still, always look ahead and never just sit back.”

But maybe I can combine what you thought was just right with something new. Either way, I'm going to do my very best.

We know Lies as a stubborn go-getter, but also as a very sociable person. Both qualities make for a very good hostess and for running a restaurant. I have every confidence that guests will feel more than at home.

Wim, Lies' dad

Lies has many talents: creative, energetic, very good at remembering faces and names, and an excellent performer. I believe she will surprise even herself as she discovers more of her talents and how to use them in the job.

Els, Lies' mum
  • My parents when they were young, together in the snow
  • My grandparents Gilbert and Lucia, smiling side by side

Dear Lies, what an incredibly exciting and beautiful new adventure you're taking on. We are so very proud that you're starting this restaurant, especially in this place that holds so many special memories for us. That you're now going to make your own dream come true here is fantastic. Good luck with everything, we'll always be behind you.

Grandma and Grandpa, Gilbert and Lucia, founders of Salons 't Oud Gemeentehuis
  • My brother and me in a big hug with our grandmother
  • My grandparents with their grandchildren, everyone smiling at the camera
  • Me as a child with both my grandmothers, laughing in the snow on a cross-country ski track

The name? It comes from my grandmother on my mother's side, Marie-Rose.

Lies

Design render of a courtyard garden with cobblestones and lots of greenery

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When do we open?

You'll hear it first. Until then, we'll take you behind the scenes now and then.

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