Are you among the many pining for the new James Bond movie “No Time To Die”?
The date for “No Time to Die” has been moved three times from its original April 2020 slot since the outbreak of the pandemic in March 2020 as movie theaters around the world closed their doors and restrictions were placed on audience capacity.
If you’re a Bond fan and missing your movie idol there’s “compensation” of sorts at a Gent restaurant.
This comes in the form of a “James Bond steak” available at the city centre resto. It is a customer favourite, not least among the many tourists who flock to this terrific eating establishment year round.
Stijn Verpaele, a partner in the business along with Johan De Baets, explained the thinking behind naming a sauce after the 007 hero.
“People are intrigued by the name,” he said. “We sometimes get people asking: “I wonder if this is what James Bond really eats?!”
The steaks (and other nice dishes) here are just part of the success story behind Du Progres (Korenmarkt 10, Gent Tel:- 09 225 1716). First the service. Everyone is greeted with a cheery welcome here and the mostly young staff. The same standard of customer service extends to the kitchen.
Another reason are the lengths to which Johan and Stijn go to keep their staff satisfied.
For instance, at New Year they hand delivered bottles of champers to their employees while, at Easter, they did the same with Easter eggs.
How many bosses can say they are so generous with their workforce?
It shows in the attentiveness and interest shown by the staff while serving the constant flow of customers at this delightful restaurant, ideally located at the heart of this fantastic Belgian city.
Stijn, who used to work in a local factory producing jenever, the Dutch/Belgian liquor, is so determined to ensure the place runs smoothly he even converted upstairs rooms into a flat where he now lives!(Johan too lives nearby though not “above the shop”).
Customers are asked to scan the card (in compliance with the pandemic restrictions) but older people, who may not have a smartphone, are given a tablet to see the menu.
As well as the classics, such as steak and salmon, some newer dishes are now available including cod fish and some pastas. There are also some daily suggestions.
As well as the ground floor and extensive terrace, there is also a first floor room, seating up to 30 and with a large screen which is ideal for conference meetings.
The business is well established and was started by Johan’s grandfather way back in 1953. Johan, aged 46, himself took over things from his father about 20 years ago and 40-year-old Stijn joined him three years ago.
Gent is always well worth a visit and should you find yourself in this pretty city you should try to make a beeline for this lovely restaurant where you be guaranteed a very good, wholesome meal – served with a smile.
By the way, Bond fans won’t now have long to wait to see the new 007 film – it’s due to its long awaited release next month.
