Hospital food isn't normally synonymous with fine dining. Upending those low expectations, meals at AZ Groeninge in Kortrijk — one of Belgium's oldest and largest hospitals — have been recognized by food inspectors at famed restaurant guide Gault&Millau.
In 2022, the hospital started working with Gault&Millau to improve the quality of the meals it serves patients. Inspectors visited numerous times, testing over 300 meals and providing feedback on enhancing their taste and texture. The food raters also evaluated the ingredients used in the hospital's kitchen, both on freshness and seasonality, and the nutritional value of menus.
While AZ Groeninge won't be included in Gault&Millau's restaurant guide, the quality recognition will be valid for one year.
