World's Best Places

Amazing live preparation of a CRÊPE SUZETTE at Michelin star NEBO in Antwerp, Belgium

15 August 2026 · 9:59 watch

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Learn the precise techniques required for tableside Crêpe Suzette preparation, focusing on sugar caramelisation, emulsion control, and safe flambéing.

Key takeaways

  • Caramelise sugar evenly to a light amber colour before adding liquids to prevent bitterness.
  • Emulsify the butter and orange juice thoroughly to avoid greasy separation in the pan.
  • Tilt the pan away from diners when igniting the alcohol to ensure guest safety during flambé.
  • Establish a seamless mise en place on the service trolley to maintain perfect dessert temperature.

At Michelin-starred NEBO in Antwerp, Chef Dimitri De Koninck demonstrates the classic tableside preparation of Crêpe Suzette. For professional kitchens, tableside service is a powerful tool to build atmosphere and demonstrate technical craft directly in front of the diner. This classic French dessert relies entirely on the team's ability to manage heat, sugar, and alcohol under pressure.\n\n## Precision in Caramelisation\nThe foundation of a perfect Suzette sauce lies in the initial caramelisation of sugar in the pan. The chef must cook the sugar evenly to a light amber state before introducing butter and fresh orange juice. If the sugar is undercooked, the sauce lacks depth; if overcooked, it becomes bitter and ruins the delicate citrus notes. Once the butter and juice are incorporated, the emulsion must be worked until smooth, ensuring the fat does not separate. The crepes are then bathed in this reducing syrup, absorbing the bright orange flavour while remaining light and tender.\n\n## The Flambé and Service Delivery\nFlambéing is more than mere kitchen theatre; it is a critical cooking step that cooks off the harsh raw alcohol while leaving behind the complex aromatic profile of the liqueurs. Chef De Koninck utilises a precise blend of citrus liqueur and brandy, tilting the pan away from the guest to ignite the alcohol safely. Controlling the flame requires confidence and correct pan positioning. The flames must die down naturally as the alcohol burns off, leaving a glossy, thickened glaze that coats the back of a spoon. Speed is essential here; the finished crepes must be plated and served immediately while still hot.\n\nFor any kitchen looking to introduce guéridon work, this live preparation highlights the absolute importance of flawless mise en placeMise en Place(French) "Everything in its place." The foundational setup of prepped ingredients and tools before service begins.. Every single element—from the pre-folded crepes to the pre-measured liqueurs—must be organised perfectly on the service trolley. A single missing spoon or a delayed flame breaks the flow of the performance, disrupts the guest experience, and compromises the final temperature of the dish.

Questions from the pass

Frequently asked questions

How do you prevent the caramel from seizing when adding liquid?

Add the butter and room-temperature orange juice gradually while stirring constantly. Rapid temperature drops cause sugar to crystallise, so introducing liquids smoothly helps maintain a velvety emulsion.

What is the best liqueur combination for a classic flambé?

Traditional recipes rely on a combination of a high-quality triple sec or orange liqueur alongside a splash of Cognac. This pairing provides both bright citrus notes and a deep, oaky warmth.

Why is temperature control critical during the flambé process?

If the pan is too cool, the alcohol will not vaporise and ignite, leaving a harsh, raw spirit taste in the sauce. If too hot, the caramel will burn during the ignition.

Can crepes be prepared ahead of time for tableside service?

Yes, crepes should be cooked, cooled, and neatly folded into quarters ahead of service. This ensures rapid plating and keeps the focus on the fresh sauce preparation.

Original video by World's Best Places. This overview is written independently by The Chef's Circle editorial desk — watch the original on YouTube.

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