30 September, 2026
Aston Martin Brussels has appointed Viki Geunes, of the three Michelin-starred restaurant Zilte, as its new Belgian Ambassador. The collaboration unites two partners “driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, precision, and world-class craftsmanship.”
Viki opened Zilte, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, as a self-taught chef. With no formal training but with an unwavering dedication to his craft, he led Zilte to its first Michelin Star in 2004. In the years since – together with his wife, Viviane, and more recently their daughter Gitte as Restaurant Manager and son-in-law Aaron as Head Sommelier – Viki has stayed true to that philosophy, building a legacy that now includes three Michelin Stars, a place on the World’s 50 Best Discovery List, and entry into Les Grandes Tables du Monde, all while retaining the warmth and attention to detail that which attracted the very first guests. Beginning with a visual idea of the dish, working backwards to discover the ingredients and techniques needed to achieve his vision, Viki is devoted to beauty in all its forms. Flavours first, followed by art, and music.
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is a British luxury car manufacturer renowned for combining timeless design with performance engineering and uncompromising craftsmanship. Synonymous with elegance, the brand has built its reputation on creating cars that are as much works of art as they are feats of engineering, a philosophy that finds a natural echo in Zilte’s own pursuit of culinary excellence.
Through this partnership, Aston Martin Brussels and Viki Geunes anticipate curating “extraordinary, highly exclusive experiences for their discerning clients and guests, setting a new benchmark for luxury and culinary artistry in Belgium.”
About the partnership, Viki Geunes said: “It is an honour to represent Aston Martin, and I am very enthusiastic about upcoming opportunities to showcase our common values and passion for heritage, precision, and relentless dedication to perfection.”
Chef Viki Geunes and his wife Viviane opened Zilte in 1996, which won its first Michelin star in 2004. Viki was named Gault & Millau Young Top Chef in 2005, a second star was awarded in 2008, and he was named Gault & Millau Chef of the Year in 2009. In 2021, he achieved his dream of the third star, becoming one of the most celebrated dining destinations in Belgium, situated above Antwerp’s prestigious Museum aan de Stroom building in Antwerp.
Viki and Viviane have worked side by side on their dream. Now, with their daughter Gitte as Restaurant Manager and their son-in-law Aaron as Head Sommelier, the restaurant is a result of the family’s shared vision. Guests feel the harmony of the four through a seamless yet approachable service that naturally resonates throughout the wider team.