Thijs Meliefste

The Path

The discipline of owner-operator work shaped Thijs Meliefste in Wolphaartsdijk, Netherlands (2015–2025). Over those ten years, the restaurant functioned as both workplace and reference point, where consistency had to be earned service after service. That kind of long, private building work established the foundation for his later move, and it is what made the transition in 2025 legible: a chef who had already proven he could carry responsibility across an entire dining room.

The Work Today

Since 2025, Thijs Meliefste has served as Global Executive Head Chef at WEAREONE.world. The role extends beyond a single address and asks for scale, coordination, and a different kind of timing, while still depending on the same standards that defined his years at Meliefste. In his own words, he framed the appeal plainly: “The magic and creativity of Tomorrowland have always appealed to me enormously.” He also drew a line around the scope of the position: “What makes this new role special is that it is not only about the festival itself.” The distinction is useful. It marks a job that reaches past the event window and asks for a chef who can think in systems as well as plates.

Signature

Thijs's signature dishes include MELIEFSTE X OESTERIJ OESTER and The Fishbone. Both names suggest a direct, declarative approach to dish naming: specific enough to identify a point of view, restrained enough to let the work speak without ornament.

In Their Words “After so many years of running my restaurant with full dedication, I felt it was time for something new.” “What makes this new role special is that it is not only about the festival itself.”

Acclaim

Thijs Meliefste has received Michelin Guide Netherlands, Michelin star. Thijs's honors include Michelin star.