Dieuwke and Willem Simonis had to keep the doors of their restaurant Onze Kerk in Hooge Zwaluwe closed for two Christmases in a row because of corona. This year they are on the safe side and that is why they are now already serving a Christmas dinner on three evenings. The menu includes deer, rabbit and a traditional hare pepper.
Employee Karin Slob and her team from the daytime activities have already decorated the restaurant in a Christmas atmosphere. Includes Christmas trees, balls, glitter garlands and lots of lights. “We have made an appeal among staff members for Christmas items. Everyone responded enthusiastically. There was more than enough to make it cozy”, explains Karin.
“It’s a bit different at this time of year.”
Despite the cheerful atmosphere inside, the reason for manager Willem Simonis is serious. After all, the past Christmases were no fun for him and his colleagues.
“Last year we only got the message a week in advance that we had to stay closed. If corona strikes again this winter, we will at least have had these Christmas dinners. My wife Dieuwke came up with the brilliant idea.”
Restaurant manager Olivier Groen has his hands full with the preparations. “It’s a bit unusual at this time of year, but you get used to it very quickly in this entourage.”
“We have three days full.”
“The only thing that is missing is the snow outside,” Willem adds, while remembering an additional advantage of Christmas in October. “We have three days full of guests who will soon no longer have to choose whether to eat with their parents or in-laws for Christmas. Because now they can do both.”
