De Opvolging

In the six-part documentary series De Opvolging (The Succession), the owners of restaurant De Librije are followed. The restaurant, founded by Jonnie and Thérèse Boer, has held the rare distinction of three Michelin stars for twenty years. But the new generation is knocking at the door: children Jimmie and Isabelle, and chef Nelson Tanate have recently become co-owners. Jonnie, Thérèse, Isabelle, Jimmie, and Nelson are observed for a year during this stage of the succession process.

Jonnie and Thérèse Boer are the faces of restaurant De Librije. He is the chef in the kitchen, she is the hostess and sommelier. After years of hard work, they want to gradually scale back and enjoy their beloved Bonaire more often. Children Jimmie and Isabelle bought into the business over a year ago, as did Nelson Tanate, who is now in charge of the kitchen’s daily operations.

The first five episodes are told from the perspective of one of the five main characters. In the sixth episode, everything comes together, showing how the entire family is committed to retaining the three stars. De Opvolging offers a special glimpse behind the scenes of their restaurants, while also telling a universal story about passing on a family business from generation to generation.