Smells Like McDonald’s
9-4-2024
In everyday settings like elevators, subways, or conference rooms, one often encounters a familiar scent: McDonald’s. Though unseen, its presence is unmistakable, akin to the brand’s iconic logo or jingle. That is why McDonald’s Netherlands leveraged their iconic smell in their latest campaign.
Trends we spotted | Week 14
8-4-2024
At horecatrends.com we spot many national and international trends on a daily basis. We pick the most interesting ones to write about, the other trends we use in our weekly column ‘Trends we spotted this week’. With this week links to articles about:
- Utrecht Cocktail Week is taking place for the second time with 18 bars in Utrecht participating, from 10 to the 14th of April!
- Quality Lodgings adds three hotels to portfolio: Boutique Hotel Texel, Hotel Restaurant de Echoput and Hotel Goldene Rose in Germany.
- Eric Vökel Riverfront Suites has opened in Amsterdam. Cozy mezzanine flats with spectacular views of the IJ river and a friendly atmosphere.
- Last weekend, Rynbende Spirits’ ‘Experimental Batch’ Vintage Gin was launched. Only 140 bottles so aficionados should be quick.
- The National Week Without Meat & Dairy in the Netherlands had 2.8 million participants, the largest number ever. And the concept continues to be rolled out across Europe.
- Via Instagram this week: Tiramisu Espresso Martini and the ‘Special Egg Coqtail’ at COQODAQ in New York City. Easter inspiration for 2025!
- The Wave a new oasis for sport and wellbeing opening soon in London. Think surfing, an ‘activity zone’, food and drink outlets, camping/glamping accommodation, yoga and a lakeside park.
- And a cool example of how to use a ‘National Day’ in your marketing strategy. Chipotle’s Burrito Vault.
Enjoy reading!
Restaurant Aroma X Ristorante Sintesi | Six-hands dinner
5-4-2024
Chef Pasquale Carfora succeeded in bringing two young Michelin-acclaimed star chefs from Italy to his restaurant in Vaassen, Gelderland. Wednesday April 17, Sara Scarsella and Matteo Compagnucci of Ristorante Sintesi (*) in Ariccia, Italy, join chef Pascale for a six-hands dinner at his restaurant Aroma Italian Fine Dining.
Domaine de la Reine Margot Paris Issy | MGallery Collection in historic estate
5-4-2024
MGallery Collection unveils a brand-new sanctuary within a historic estate in Issy-les-Moulineaux, Domaine de la Reine Margot. Just a few miles from the heart of the French capital, guests will discover a place that encourages relaxation amid natural surroundings.
Trends we spotted | Week 13
2-4-2024
At horecatrends.com we spot many national and international trends on a daily basis. We pick the most interesting ones to write about, the other trends we use in our weekly column ‘Trends we spotted this week’. With this week links to articles about:
- On April 1st BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse introduced their new Pizookie® | The Pizickle!

- Interesting read about reaching out to tech-savvy travelers by Anna Randow on the website of eHotelier.
- New Stars & Awards – MICHELIN Guide Germany 2024.
- A huge urban theme park, Gravity MAX, is coming to east London May 2024.
- Opening this month in Knightbridge, SURRENNE is London’s new next generation wellbeing and longevity Members’ Club. A wellbeing brand launched by the Maybourne Group.
- Peet’s Coffee celebrates Earth Month with sustainability efforts, Earth Day discounts and initiatives.
- Restaurant Sézanne in Tokyo claims no1 spot at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Enjoy reading!
Monte Marcella | High altitude cycling training in West Flanders
29-3-2024
Cyclists no longer have to travel to distant mountain areas in search of those extra few percentages. From now on, they can find what they need in the heart of West Flanders, Belgium. “Using the latest technology, we transform our 16 rooms, with a total of 42 beds, into altitude rooms. We simulate the same effects of altitude training,” says Frederik Van Lierde, former Ironman world champion and 2013 Sportsman of the Year and ambassador for Monte Marcella. “Moreover, we also offer altitude stimuli in many common areas, such as the food lounge, fitness and gym space, living room, wellness area, and cinema room. The more hours per day you spend in the thinner air, the better your sports result. Additionally, taking on the altitude challenge together also increases the mental resilience of the athletes. The numerous facilities at altitude make Monte Marcella unique in the world.”
Restaurant Madunia | Great connection to the surrounding nature on Ibiza
28-3-2024
Opening – Located on the west coast of Ibiza, where the breathtaking sunset sets the ambiance, restaurant Madunia will open its doors on June 8th. The name Madunia is derived from ‘Mama Dunia’, or Mother Earth, and reflects the restaurant’s connection to its surrounding nature.
Riot Restobar | Amsterdam conviviality and potato in a high-end jacket
28-3-2024
Opening – Located in Amsterdam, where the Amstelveenseweg turns into Overtoom. Those visiting or living in Amsterdam can since recently visit Riot Restobar. A restobar with swagger where differences are embraced. And where the potato returns in all its glory in the dishes and drinks, such as in the house beer.
Strandzuid starts summer season with their beer event on Good Friday
26-3-2024
From the Easter weekend onwards, Amsterdam’s city beach Strandzuid will be open daily for a relaxed lunch, drinks or dinner again. To celebrate the transition from the wintery South Pole to the warm Strandzuid, they will kick off terrace season on Good Friday (March 29) with their traditional Beer event.
‘Wij houden van Holland’ assortment from Patisserie de Rouw in Vught
26-3-2024
During the run-down to Easter, Patisserie de Rouw introduces a number of new creations. The distinctive chocolaterie Easter assortment has been expanded with three new chocolate figures filled with rice-crisp: the Heart Thief, Chickie and the pet hare Flappie. Furthermore, the “Wij houden van Holland” assortment will be available in their store and online after Easter. In addition, it has recently become possible to obtain the famous nougatine pie in pre-cut super tight pieces.
We think their ‘Wij houden van Holland’ assortment is absolutely great. Nice idea, if your restaurant or hotel is located in a characteristic building, to have a mini chocolate house made of this? Think KLM-style houses! 