Anyone walking down Vlissingen's Scheldestraat has recently been surprised by the smell of fresh Thai spices emanating from the bright blue building at number 57a. This is the home of Topi Thai, a take-away where authentic Thai dishes are prepared with love and precision. No frills, no adaptations to the Dutch taste, but real Thai cuisine. Exactly like in Thailand.

From technology to Thai cuisine

Behind Topi Thai are Danny Brandt and his wife Mint Som Sab. Danny was born and raised in Vlissingen, growing up in the Waaigat, near the police station. "I did the Streekschool and started out as a cook, but that didn't turn out to be for me," he says. "I went into engineering. But the hospitality industry kept pulling me in."

Mint worked in the sushi bar at Albert Heijn XL, where she learned the trade to perfection. When she was asked to take over the sushi range, the idea for her own business began to grow. "We had wanted something for ourselves for some time. After three years of planning and talking, the moment was there."

Visible, fresh and 100% halal

The property at the intersection with Paul Kruger Street was love at first sight. "Visibility is important. And yes, price also played a role," Danny laughs. The old kitchen was completely gutted and replaced, only the hood and refrigerator remained. Meanwhile, a small team of Thai helpers runs the kitchen.

What stands out: everything is fresh. And everything is 100% halal. "We don't use pork and get all the meat from the Islamic butcher. We are critical of quality and you can taste that."