Jonnie Boer, one of the Netherlands' most celebrated chefs, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the age of 60 due to a pulmonary embolism. His death was confirmed by his wife, Thérèse Boer, to the Telegraaf. The couple co-owned the renowned restaurant De Librije in Zwolle, the only establishment in the country to hold three Michelin stars, a prestigious accolade they maintained since 2004.
Boer died on the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire, where he had a vacation home. A family spokesperson stated that he was visiting their other restaurants, Brass Boer and Senang, both located on the island. The reason for his presence there at the time of his passing was not disclosed. “We will not make any further announcements about that,” the spokesperson noted. “It is very sad for everyone.”
Boer’s culinary journey began at the young age of 17 in Amsterdam, where he started working in the restaurant De Boerderij. He joined De Librije in 1987, becoming the head chef just two years after the couple took over the restaurant in 1993. Under their leadership, De Librije quickly gained acclaim, earning its first Michelin star in the same year they acquired it, followed by a second in 1999 and a third in 2004.
In addition to De Librije, Boer and his wife operated several other restaurants, including Brass Boer, which received a Michelin star in 2023, and Senang, which earned a Bib Gourmand the same year for providing excellent dining experiences at a lower price point. The couple's children, Jimmie and Isabelle, along with chef Nelson Tanate, have recently taken on co-ownership roles in the family business.
Earlier this year, the Boer family was featured in the documentary series De Opvolging, which depicted their efforts to transition the business to the next generation. In a heartfelt Instagram post, their daughter Isabelle expressed her gratitude, stating, “Thank you for everything you have given me. I will make you proud even though you won’t be here to see it. See you soon, old man.” Their son Jimmie echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the deep family ties and the legacy Boer leaves behind.
Jonnie Boer was not only a culinary innovator but also a pioneer in promoting local and sustainable ingredients in his cooking. His work earned him a Green Michelin Star in 2021, recognizing his commitment to sustainability and sourcing from local suppliers.
The news of Boer's passing has sent shockwaves through the culinary world. Many colleagues and industry leaders have expressed their condolences, acknowledging his immense contributions to gastronomy in the Netherlands. Mara Grimm, a culinary critic for Het Parool, described his death as a “surreal loss” for his family and the Dutch culinary scene. She praised Boer for his incredible legacy and for mentoring young chefs, paving the way for a new generation of culinary talent.
In a statement, the hospitality organization SVH remarked, “Jonnie was not only a culinary giant but also a passionate entrepreneur and an inspiring colleague. We had the privilege of working closely with him, and he always impressed us with his vision, creativity, and unparalleled commitment to quality.”
As the family mourns their loss, staff at De Librije and their other establishments were given time off to process the news. The restaurant is currently closed for vacation, and other locations under the Librije group also closed their doors on the evening of April 23, 2025.
Boer was born in 1965 in Giethoorn and attended the Culinary Vakschool in Groningen. His career trajectory is a testament to his dedication and passion for cooking. After his initial experience at De Boerderij, he moved to De Librije, where he would ultimately make his mark in the culinary world.
Throughout his illustrious career, Boer received numerous accolades and awards, including becoming the youngest Dutch chef to hold two Michelin stars at the age of 33. His commitment to excellence and innovation in the kitchen set a high standard for aspiring chefs across the country.
In recent years, Boer had expressed a desire to step back from the daily operations of the restaurant, indicating that he wanted to pass on the reins to his children. “It is great that something we have worked on for 35 years can stay in the family,” he told the Telegraaf in February 2025. This transition was part of a broader plan to ensure the continued success and legacy of De Librije.
As the culinary community reflects on Jonnie Boer's remarkable life, his influence will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the many chefs he inspired and the countless diners who experienced his culinary artistry. The legacy of De Librije and the Boer family's commitment to quality and sustainability will remain a significant part of the Dutch gastronomic landscape.
On April 24, 2025, the first episode of De Opvolging will be rebroadcast at 23:40 on NPO 2, focusing on Jonnie Boer and his family’s journey in the culinary world.
