A Remarkable Fine-Dining Experience
Spectrum has been on my list for quite some time, and I finally made my way there. An experience that exceeded every expectation. I can say with complete confidence: it is truly one of the best in Amsterdam. Inside the iconic five-star Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, Spectrum holds two well-deserved Michelin stars. Under the vision of Chef Sidney Schutte and restaurant manager and maître-sommelier Cas Kratz, the restaurant showcases a bold, modern culinary philosophy deeply rooted in Dutch heritage.
From the moment we stepped into the Waldorf, we were welcomed with genuine warmth and guided to Spectrum’s intimate dining room. Settling in with a beautiful glass of champagne felt like the perfect way to begin, and choosing the tasting menu was an easy decision (one I can’t recommend highly enough). They do offer an à la carte option, but at a restaurant like this, the tasting menu is really where the experience comes alive.
We started with three small refined bites, the first impressions of the menu, and they set the tone for the night. The flavour combinations and the creativity, everything was executed with such precision. Spectrum’s cuisine is rooted in Dutch ingredients and you really notice it in the dishes. They work with local farmers, use seafood from the North Sea, and incorporate products that reflect Dutch traditions, but prepare them with a modern and international approach.
After the opening bites, we enjoyed four smaller dishes, including a delicate langoustine and a perfectly prepared red mullet. Both were outstanding. Each course arrived like a masterpiece; visually stunning and beautifully balanced. The presentation alone made me pause more than once; everything looked almost too pretty to eat, but of course… I still managed.
We went for the wine pairing, which made the whole experience even better. Each glass fit the dish perfectly, and the explanations felt thoughtful and personal. Before the main course we could choose between duck or sweetbread. Spectrum is known for its duck, so I trusted their specialty and it was absolutely the right choice.
Dessert arrived as a beautifully crafted final touch, balanced and not overly sweet. Followed by the usual coffee or tea, accompanied by chocolates that reflected flavours from some of the earlier dishes. Each chocolate was indicated on the menu with a coloured overlay, which was a fun little detail, and of course, they were absolutely delicious.
Spectrum delivers creative, refined cooking with clear Dutch influences and incredibly fresh ingredients. Every dish feels thoughtful and well balanced, and the whole evening flows naturally with great pacing and warm service.
For a top-level fine dining experience in Amsterdam, Spectrum is absolutely worth visiting.
Spectrum
Herengracht 542, 556, 1017 CG Amsterdam