From falling in love in a pancake house to five years of 't Laarbos.

A dream that had to wait a while

That dream of having our own pancake house? It had been there for a long time. Only... life had other plans for a while. Children, jobs, security and also just the question: is this the right time? "With small children you really shouldn't start a catering business," says Jelly soberly. So the dream was parked for a while.

Until suddenly an opportunity came along. In Ommen. Through an acquaintance. Edwin knew immediately: this is what we are going to do. Jelly? She just saw all the possible obstacles on the road. And that was not surprising. Because it was 2020. Corona. Everything uncertain. "But we also thought: if we don't do it now, we'll never do it again."

Starting while the world stood still

So they jumped. Exciting? Absolutely. Once they tied the knot, they set to work step by step. Paint a little, remodel a little, do a lot themselves (courtesy of handy family) and in the meantime hope they could open. Only ... the world thought otherwise. "Then we just started pickup and delivery. Just so we could do something." And that "something" turned out to be just enough. Because some of the guests from that first hour? They're still there today.

Ommen feels like home

For two people who are not from here, such a step can be quite exciting. But that feeling actually disappeared very quickly. "We were really welcomed here with open arms," says Jelly. And you notice that in everything. To guests who come back. By faces that become familiar. The moment someone walks in and you already know what they're going to order. That personal touch is important here.

More than just pancakes

Yes, you come here for a good pancake (logical). But meanwhile there is secretly much more on the menu. For those who don't feel like a pancake (we can't imagine), there are also just fine main courses. Just as good, made with just as much attention. Because in the end, what matters here is not just what's on your plate, but the feeling you walk out with again.

Fourteen of us (and everyone counts)

By now the team consists of about fourteen people, including Edwin and Jelly themselves. Because yes, they are always just standing around. On the floor. In the kitchen. Where necessary. The team is young, energetic and above all: a good mix. "We'd rather not hire someone than not fit." And that's what you experience as a guest. In the atmosphere, in the service, in how everyone treats each other and guests. Also nice: the two sons of Edwin and Jelly can now also be found on the work floor. Teamwork as a family!

Five years later: time for a party

And then suddenly the time had come: five years of 't Laarbos. A milestone they don't let pass by lightly. On June 5, 6 and 7 it will be celebrated, and not a little. Friday evening is dedicated to a fun music bingo (nice to combine with a tasty pancake as a warm-up). On Saturday and Sunday there will be plenty of entertainment for children, including face painting and fun activities. And also then, of course, you are welcome to join us for something tasty. But actually it's about something else: "It's mainly a thank you to Ommen, because we were so warmly received." they say.

Still a long way to go

And what will it look like in five years? There are plenty of new plans and wishes for their beautiful place already bubbling somewhere in the background right now. But one thing is definitely not changing for now: Edwin and Jelly themselves. Because quitting? They are far from thinking about that. "It's just too much fun."

Will you come and join the party on June 5, 6 or 7? You are most welcome!