Celebrity chef Sergio Herman is stepping away from the spotlight of the high-end culinary scene. The acclaimed chef has announced the closure of his two restaurants in Antwerp, including the star-studded Le Pristine.
In a move that signals a dramatic shift in lifestyle and priorities, Herman expressed a desire to distance himself from the pressures of the industry. I feel the need to develop more time
, the chef stated, explaining his decision to shut down the Antwerp establishments.
The transition appears to be a quest for simplicity and mental clarity. Herman described a vision of a more grounded existence, stating, I want to live in nature, cook in nature, back to basics
. He further emphasized that this chapter of his life is about returning to nature and myself
and getting back to the essence
.
Although the decision is framed as a personal journey, there were also financial headwinds playing a role in the closure. Femke Vandevelde noted that Le Pristine was primarily a loss-making operation over the past few years
.
This departure marks a significant pivot for one of the industry’s most prominent figures, trading the prestige of Michelin-starred dining for a more secluded, naturalistic approach to life and cooking.
