Sundays are for relaxing and recharging for the week ahead. A few weeks ago I got inspired by a walk along the ring of canals in the lovely Jordaan neighborhood in Amsterdam. At the Prince’s Canal (Prinsengracht), one of the most beautiful canals in Amsterdam, the Bluespoon Restaurant & Bar is housed in the 5-star boutique Andaz hotel. The Andaz in Amsterdam is quite different from the Andaz London (featured on 30s Magazine a few years ago). What they do have in common is that they are both housed in historical buildings. What used to be a public library is transformed into a designer hotel and boy, oh boy, it sure is pretty! The famous Dutch interior designer Marcel Wanders designed not only the hotel interior, but also the Bluespoon restaurant & Bar.
Dutch Delft blue pottery designs, little details of Amsterdam, colorful flowers and of course, blue spoons all add to the amazing interior of this cosy restaurant. Every little detail has been thought of. From the black and golden lamp shades that are tilted, to the beautiful cutlery and wall decoration. Why the restaurant is called the Bluespoon remains a mystery. Is it because the owner’s son once painted a ladle blue? Or is it because Delft Blue porcelain is typical Dutch? I guess I have to go back to find out!
Chef Kasper Stiekema worked along side Jamie Oliver at 15 and ran the kitchen at renowned restaurants such as CielBlue, La Rive and De Kas. Nowadays he creates exquisite arrangements at the Bluespoon restaurant.
The Bluespoon restaurant sets itself apart from other restaurants by focusing on uncomplicated and locally inspired flavors. Local produce such as fish from the North Sea, cheeses & meat from the Lindehof and ice-cream from Monte Pelmo all make their way to the beautifully arranged tables at the Bluespoon. Chef Stiekema serves European dishes with a Dutch twist. For Sunday Brunch they offer wonderful a la carte dishes but also a buffet with fresh and healthy choices. The dessert buffet is served at the bar and with the Prinsengracht as a backdrop you truly feel like Dutch royalty.
This delicate cod with a mushroom and spicy chorizo side is wonderfully soft. The creamy celeriac mash and mini shrimp croquette are a perfect finish to this dish.
For dessert I had their signature dish: a dark chocolate mousse with chocolate cookie crumbs & pearls. The mousse is topped with warm salted caramel sauce (my favorite), or a rich Grand Marnier sauce. Absolutely delightful!
The Bluespoon is an elegant option if you’re looking for a warm and cosy spot to spend your Sunday. The restaurant is located at the Prinsengracht 587. For reservations and more info visit their website.
This blogpost was written by ‘Food & Hotspots’ Contributor Jeannine Tjin.
Jeannine is passionate about traveling and food, the combination of those two being the ultimate combination! She embraces every moment on her journey in life as life’s little luxuries. Find out more about her.
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