This is the only remaining town-country house on Havenstraat, generally known as ‘Chez Mathilde’, a former restaurant.

History takes us back to the 19^th century, when Regina Oduber, of French descent, acquired this authentic Aruban house which has since remained in the family.

The last family member to live in the house was Anna Mathilda Oduber, Regina’s niece. She never married. Before she died in 1978, her last wish was for the house to remain in its original state and property of the family. That is why the house was completely restored in 1986. ‘Maison Mathilde’ was turned into an exclusive French restaurant, named ‘Chez Mathilde’.

Anna Mathilda Oduber

The restaurant was renowned for its celebration of the traditional arrival of the ‘Beaujolais Nouveau’ wine from France on the 3^rd Thursday of November. An local celebrity, a politician or member of the government, would be invited for the festive opening of the first bottle.

In 2008, the restaurant received a big make-over and reopened under the name ‘Mathilde’. Unfortuately, it had to close in 2010.

The building then went on to house the business – Kok Optica – of another member of the family.