On a culinary adventure in Japan: "The purity and balance of flavours are a constant source of creativity for me"

As chef of two-star restaurant De Lindehof in Nuenen, Soenil Bahadoer has already conquered many culinary hearts. Now he takes a select group to Japan, the country that inspires him time and again: ''What inspires me most is the philosophy behind the kitchen: the pursuit of perfection in even the smallest details and the use of seasonal products.''

For this culinary journey, Soenil has joined forces with Travel Legends. Together they offer an intimate and exclusive journey in which gastronomy and culture are central. With a group of maximum 14 participants, Soenil and Travel Legends ensure a personal experience in which each guest is immersed in the rich Japanese culinary traditions.

''Japan is one of the most beloved destinations among our travelers,'' says Rob van Helvoort, owner of Travel Legends. 'In collaboration with Soenil Bahadoer we create a journey that goes beyond standard culinary vacations. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for true gourmets.''

From Tokyo to Osaka

The journey starts in Tokyo, where Soenil takes his guests to famous markets, authentic restaurants and hidden eateries. The route continues to Kyoto, known for its ancient temples and traditional Japanese gardens, and ends in Osaka. During the journey, the group learns all about the local cuisine and is introduced to the philosophy behind Japanese dishes, the influence of the seasons and the art of presentation.

“Japan has a unique and deep culinary tradition that focuses on simplicity, precision and respect for ingredients,” says Soenil. “What inspires me most is the philosophy behind the cuisine: the pursuit of perfection in even the smallest details and the use of seasonal products. The purity and balance of flavors are a constant source of creativity for me.” 

In addition to tastings and fine dining, there are workshops and meetings with local producers. Think of learning to prepare traditional dishes and discovering age-old craft techniques. “The journey is about discovering Japanese culinary techniques, ingredients and culture,” Soenil explains. “This means not only dining in famous restaurants, but also learning from local producers, visiting markets and understanding traditional crafts. It is a combination of tasting, learning and being inspired by the Japanese way of life.”

The trip to Japan will take place from November 9 to 16, 2025 and is limited to a maximum of 14 people. Don't want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience? Reserve a spot here.