Jonnie Boer grew up in Giethoorn, the Netherlands. In 1993, he and his life partner Thérèse Boer purchased De Librije in Zwolle. They focused on using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in their cooking, a philosophy that became central to their approach. Their commitment to quality and innovation quickly gained recognition in the culinary world.

Over the years, Jonnie and Thérèse expanded their restaurant portfolio. They opened Brass Boer locations in Bonaire, Curaçao, and their hometown of Zwolle. In each restaurant, they continued to prioritize locally sourced products and maintained a strong focus on sustainability.

Jonnie Boer’s cooking style blended modern techniques with traditional flavors, and he was known for his attention to detail and dedication to showcasing regional ingredients. Thérèse, as maître-sommelier, ensured that the wine selection complemented the dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. Together, they built a reputation for their restaurants as centers of fine dining, committed to delivering high-quality meals with a focus on sustainability.