The Smit Family
De Marktslager by the Smit family is a family-run butcher shop with three generations of expertise. Where they once sourced cattle at the livestock market, they now buy directly from farmers, ensuring pure Dutch beef. Together with local farmers, the Smit family is dedicated to preserving the Blaarkop breed in the
Groningen landscape. Gezinus visits the farms almost weekly to check on the cattle.
In the butcher shop, everything is still done by hand, a true display of craftsmanship. Block & Barrels is proud to collaborate with this skilled butcher.
The Blaarkop
The blaarkop is an old breed of cattle already mentioned in the Middle Ages in Groningen. The cows are solid black or red with a white head. Around the eyes the blaarkop has a black or red ring, the blaar. It is a strong breed. They hardly need any extra food in winter, they have a very strong health and therefore don’t need preventive antibiotics.
Quality
The blaarkop is bred for both milk and meat, so they are less environmentally harmful. They are kept outside most of the year, eating whatever they find in nature. This way they don’t disrupt the ecosystem, but actually contribute to it! The blaarkop is a good and sustainable cow.
The meat of the blaarkop is marbeled, which gives it a very refined taste. When possible we use beef from the blaarkop. Good for the environment, the flavour and quality.
About us
Block & Barrels has been a trusted name for nearly a decade, born from a passion for great food, fine beers, and a strong dose of South African atmosphere. The concept was inspired by unforgettable weekends at Meatopia, one of Europe’s top food festivals, and was brought to life by three men with a shared dream. Dave welcomes guests as the host with his unique style, while his brother Mark takes charge as chef, bringing authentic flavors to life in the kitchen. Boudewijn manages the business side, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
With house recipes crafted in collaboration with the Marktslager and a dedicated dry-age room where we perfectly age our meat, Block & Barrels embodies craftsmanship and sustainability. We believe in a “nose-to-tail” approach, striving to use every part of the animal in our kitchen. The South African roots of Mark and Dave are evident not only in our dishes but also in the bar and the vibrant ambiance of our restaurant.
