Described as serving up “uncomplicated European flavours with a Dutch edge,” the Sunday brunch at Bluespoon, Andaz Amsterdam is exactly what we were looking for to while away a pleasant Sunday afternoon.
For the very reasonable price of 39 Euro (49 Euro with a glass of cava included), we find ourselves in an inspirational setting. Both hubby and I appreciate creativity partnered with a little quirkiness, and at Bluespoon we get not only that, but charming green surrounds to boot.
The lobby entrance is marked with a trio of giant bells that draw the eye upwards to gawk at an enormous mobile strung with circular forms and lights reflecting off the glass boxed roof. Bluespoon is just beyond, enclosed in glass walls looking out onto “Alice in Amsterdam” influenced gardens. See photos below to understand what I mean.
The Sunday brunch includes a salad and appetizer buffet, one dish from the a la carte menu, a dessert table and a free flow of coffee, tea and fresh juices.
The open kitchen concept really means dishes are displayed right there in the kitchen. There’s no barrier between guests and the chefs. The kitchen crew buzzes around between stations and the food is literally set upon the kitchen counters. It all looks fabulous and it’s hard to know where to start: the rainbow of salads, the mouthwatering selection of pastries or perhaps the jaw dropping display of charcuterie and cheeses? We attempt it all.
We’re fortunate it’s the ‘new herring’ season in Amsterdam and so with fish fresh out of the ocean, we deem that, coupled with a sprinkling of diced red onion, one of our favourites. It is hard to prioritize our loves however as the cheese and cold cuts are excellent, as are the extensive range of house baked breads, and assortment of crisp fresh salads.
There’s more than a handful of a la carte dishes from which to choose, and seasonally inspired dishes include poached eggs Florentine, smoked salmon sandwich, spaghetti vongole, and the classic Amsterdam hotdog. After much debate we go with the Catch of the Day, and the Sunday Roast.
My fresh catch is a plate full of plump tiger prawns lightly pan friend with butter and dill. Mixed herbs are aplenty on the side and a delicious Hollandaise sauce is there for the dipping. Hubby’s roasted rib eye is an enormous portion and the juices from the just cooked meat glisten in the sunlight. Mashed potatoes and ratatouille provide ample accompaniment.
When it’s time for desserts, we as usual pretend to moan that we have no more space left for sampling. Of course when we lay our eyes on the spread we end up with the equivalent of another entire meal on our plates. The display has clearly been formulated by a dedicated pastry chef, and the sweets selection is of high quality and impressive in variety. Hubby swoons over the velvety flan, and I scoop up bowls full of vibrant summer berries. My attempts to be reasonable however are all lost when I spy the lemon meringue pie. Cushioned with a thin pastry base, packed with creamy tangy lemon curd, and smothered with a silky layer of beaten eggs whites, it’s worth every single calorie.
Brunch is available every Sunday from 12 noon to 3pm and is priced at 39 EUR per adult, 19.50 EUR for children aged between 6 and 12, and complimentary for children under the age of 6 (up to 3 children). Top up to EUR 49 per person and receive a welcome glass of cava to kick off the experience.
Reasons to visit: alluring and fun atmosphere; excellent value for money; friendly and professional service; high quality ingredients put together simply and deliciously.
Bluespoon Restaurant
Andaz Amsterdam
Prinsengracht 587
Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1016 HT
+31 (0) 20 523 1234
http://hyatt.com/corporate/restaurants/Bluespoon/en/Home.html
Lovely blue spoon. Just a glimpse at the salad bar and I’m sold already. Looks real good.
The previous post of the Intercontinental Hotel in Amsterdam, this hotel
looks in a way like the World famous “D’Angleterre” in beautiful Copenhagen.
Are you going to review Copenhagen next?????
That will really bring back some wonderful memories for me.
The food in the two Dutch previews looks really great.
Thank you for these excellent photos and food summations.
Cheers
El Colin Cordobes
It’s been about five years since we were last in Copenhagen. I’d only just started blogging then so no great posts from there I’m afraid. We did visit in summer though (I dread to think what winter is like up there) and found is absolutely stunning.
What an absolutely gorgeous setting! The garden is so soothing and inviting, creating the perfect ambiance for a great meal. I love the assortment of cheeses and cold cuts, and not sure if I have ever mentioned this before but in case I haven’t, lemon meringue pie is my favourite dessert! And I need to mention that I don’t eat dessert as a rule, but I do now and then and this is my #1 choice. 🙂
The tiger shrimp and rib eye also look quite appealing. And I love the warmth and lighting of the reception area.
Amazing, I need to plan a trip to there soon!
Gosh, that garden is a beauty & I would love to dine there anytime, dear! xoxo
book me a seat at the table in the garden outside! 🙂
Beautiful garden and great food.
Amsterdam?! You have been so busy this summer!