Spectrum image

Spectrum

Restaurant Fine dining restaurant

Fine dining option in the Waldorf Astoria offering inventive global cuisine with local ingredients. People often mention experience, menu, restaurant, Spectrum, dishes, service, dish, wine, dining, Amsterdam,


Address

Herengracht 542, 556, 1017 CG Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website

www.restaurantspectrum.com

Contact

+31 20 718 4635

Price rating

$$$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (236 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 6 PM to 12 AM
  • Saturday: 6 PM to 12 AM
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 6 PM to 12 AM
  • Thursday: 6 PM to 12 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: experience (25) menu (21) restaurant (20) Spectrum (20) dishes (19) service (16) dish (13) wine (12) dining (11) Amsterdam (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 2/5 Moshe N. 1 year ago on Google
    The service and the dishes were good, the staff took good care of us and were very welcoming. Unfortunately, we waited in average almost 40 min between each dish. Not expected from restaurant at that level and price.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Camiel van der B. 1 year ago on Google
    When I visited Spectrum in October 2022, it didn’t live up to my expectations. After leaving a review, the manager reached out and very kindly offered to invite us again so we could try Spectrum one more time. Besides apologizing for some confusion that happened on our first visit, the restaurant actually implemented some changes and showed that they listened to our experience. This made us feel heard and appreciated and it showed a certain maturity to improve after mistakes. The food was delicious and balanced. I think some if the dishes were a bit large, and their supposed signature watermelon dish wasn't my personal favorite. The appetizers and desserts were the best dishes of the night and deserve the most praise in my opinion. I'm very happy we were invited back and we had an amazing evening. The service was wonderful and I truly appreciate Spectrum's attitude to embracing and incorporating any type of feedback.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dani Q. 5 months ago on Google • 38 reviews
    We had the pleasure of dining at Spectrum in Amsterdam. I don’t usually go for the vegetarian menu but this vegetarian menu was intriguing and I am very happy we made this choice. Service from start to finish was perfection. Nestled within the Waldorf Astoria one would expect the typical pretentious Michelin restaurants I find are quickly checking - something I gleefully welcome. Spectrum was friendly and approachable yet still refined with an upscale vibe which we very much enjoyed. The menu was so creative and not just in description but in execution which, as I mentioned, with a vegetarian menu is very difficult to accomplish. Among our favorites were: Green Asparagus: perfect balance of flavors, textures and beauty. Celtuce: cannot even describe the magnificence of this dish. Every bite was different and completely unexpected het somehow homey and comforting altogether. Watermelon: my personal favorite. Wow. Cruncy. Fresh. Comforting and heavy yet also light and uplifting. Beautiful plating but the masterpiece were the horseradish pearls. Wow. Persian Lemon: one of the best desserts I’ve had at a Michelin meal. I find that it is very difficult to find creative yet decadent, delicious and beahtiful desserrs at many Michelin restaurants - you either get one or the other (many times neither) and, rightfullt so, bringing a complexity of flavors and feelings that come together in perfect harmony is a very difficult task. Spectrum has managed to create a dessert that is visually appealing and intriguing yet also matches the impression of the eyes through taste. Bravo. Lagniappe: at the end of the meal we were given truffles with flavors from dishes we had tasted. Now, I normally don’t love this but these were outstanding and it was such a fun and creative way to remember each dish we had. I am mad at myself for losing the menu with the colored guide because it was so whimsical. Worthy mentions: Black Truffle: while the creativity was there, something was missing to make this dish a star. Delicious, sure. Beautiful, absolutely. Did I think about it days after? No. Amsterdam “Dame Blanche”: I loved the playfulness of this dish considering you wouldn’t expect a fine dining restaurant to give you a marijuana leaf shaped chocolate. It was unique and definitely memorable and a nice ode to Amsterdam. Misses: Shiso: this dish was oversalted and almost inedible. Beautiful to see yet a complete miss. I hope they edit this dish because I was very surprised and had the rest of the experience not been outstanding, I would’ve been very upset to have been served something nearly inedible. We had a marvelous time at Spectrum. Sure it was almost a four hour meal, but it was fun. It was eye-opening. It was beautiful and it was a delight to our senses.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Shiro Decorte (. 2 years ago on Google
    If there's one thing that was a little disappointing was the wine pairing selection they offered. Except for one wine, the rest were really not memorable and some just didn't taste great. I can see the wine pairing concept that they want to creating by offering new types of wine but for me it didn’t really amplify the food experience. Plus. to be honest, I expected them to cook more creative dishes. In short, the wine selection just wasn't up to the standard we hoped to get from a fine dining restaurant like Spektrum. But, as always, this is just my personal opinion.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Björn C. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful Restaurant! We had the luck to visit it one day before the lockdown has started and it was extraordinary! We felt very welcome. The service and the dishes were excellent. Nice restaurant concept with some nice surprises. Also the selection of non-alcoholic beverages was good! Additionally the service quality was very high and it fits very well to the high Standards of Waldorf Astoria!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Edward m. 4 years ago on Google
    Bold and punchy. The seasonal menu we had was very flavorful. All the dishes are perfectly cooked. The Ingredient combinations are very unique. I truly enjoyed it. On the other hand, my dining partner didn’t love it as much as I did (she will probably give a 4 star out of 5) simply because the pairings are all quite daring and different. Service is top notch. Definitely pay Spectrum a visit if you want to try something new or if you find your palate getting a bit bored with what’s on offer out there.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A. M. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful dining experience with my wife and mother at Spectrum last night. The food was wonderful and the staff took such good care of us. My wife had the vegetarian menu which was stunning. Will definitely go back!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simona C. 1 year ago on Google • 140 reviews
    Absolutely delightful experience at Spectrum! The food is glorious: interesting combinations of flavors, ingredients and techniques, beautiful presentation, generous quantities. Great and interesting wine pairing (loved the sake combos) and very generous servings. The service is excellent, just about the best I experienced lately. What a special place!

  • 5/5 Julius V. 5 months ago on Google
    What an experience!! The best menu since our trip to noma! Brave combination of flavours that you don't expect to fit so greatly. Not too fancy, so even as an amateur you grasp the concept and stylistic idea of the dishes. Not a single weak dish throughout the whole menu which is a feat in itself. Utterly sensational and world-class execution. The service was immaculate and the whole team just fantastic! Will be back :-)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laila van H. 6 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    Another absolutely magical evening! To die for dishes created by Sidney Schutte, and wonderful wine pairings bij sommelier Cas Kratz. We were taken care of by the wonderful service team, and for us this was the best way to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JW 4 years ago on Google
    We did the 7 course meal and it was great. I really like the duck and sepia - it was cooked to perfection. The avacado sorbet was beautifully done as well. More importantly, the staff took really good care of us.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Emily v. 1 year ago on Google
    When we first paid a visit to Spectrum, it didn’t meet our expectations and we were disappointed, but the manager very graciously offered us an invitation to try Spectrum once more. We had a lovely evening and everyone was welcoming and kind. My partner and I really appreciate that some change was made and that they had acknowledged what had gone wrong previously. The food was tasty & you can tell that they create their dishes with care. The main Shiso dish of the evening was my favorite creation & it surprised me the most because I’m not a fan of shiso, but it was lovely. The stars of the night were the desserts. Marie is an extremely talented chef & they were some of the best desserts I’ve ever had. You have to try them. I truly appreciate the unique take on every ingredient used and it makes me happy that there was a fully vegan menu that was carefully thought out. I do think there needs to be a bit more balance with the enoki & watermelon dishes, but overall, everything was great. Thanks for the great evening!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sonja W. 2 years ago on Google
    For me the best restaurant ever! 3rd time there and every time I enjoy it even more. This time we came all over from Switzerland on Saturday just to eat there for our anniversary and to fly home on Sunday. Dishes always with new and unexpected flavours and combinations. Highly creative. I absolutely love it!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vikash G. 2 years ago on Google
    Paradise for veggie food lovers. Probably the best restaurant in Amsterdam
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jan K. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing dinner experience. Right now a stay in the Waldorf Astoria is mandatory because of COVID regulations, definitely a great combination. Every dish had surprising combinations of flavors and textures. Winepairing offered by spectrum was perfect. The North Sea sole with a sauce of nettle and vanilla was my favorite dish of the night. Followed by the Anjou Pigeon, which was also one of the most surprising dishes flavorwise.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tea E. 5 months ago on Google
    Hands down, the best restaurant in Amsterdam. I have tried all two star restaurants in the city, and almost all 1-stars and would say that Spectrum is a class of its own. I truly cannot tell why they have not received a third star, as in my opinion they are at par will other 3-star restaurants I have visited, if not even better than some. Impeccable service and attention to detail. The chef’s ability to bring out the best in the dishes is exceptional, where even ingredients I don’t normally love such as duck or liquorish truly shine. We felt really spoiled and surprised, particularly when it came to the desserts. Truly a memorable experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael T. 1 month ago on Google • 56 reviews New
    An amazing experience. We've eaten in many nice restaurants and hotels in different countries, and the Spectrum is amongst the absolute best. Food was amazing and the service was even better. Every single member of staff in the hotel and restaurant was very very attentive. It's all the little touches... such as our card, the tulip syrup gift, and even complimentary umberellas because it was raining when we left the hotel! Highly recommended if you are interested in trying an extensive taster menu and being looked after by exceptionally caring staff.

  • 5/5 Cheryl W. 1 month ago on Google • 51 reviews New
    Spectrum offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience. The menu features a diverse selection of seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes, each expertly crafted to blend flavors in exciting ways. The attention to detail in presentation and taste makes every dish a delight. With great service adding to the experience, don't miss the decadent chocolates infused with menu flavors for a perfect ending to your meal.

  • 4/5 Paul K. 1 year ago on Google • 19 reviews
    In general, the food was great. We loved everything except for the main dishes (duck and pigeon) Although some restaurants were able to make us enjoy pigeon and duck dishes, this restaurant was not one of them. The bread is incredibly delicious… we couldn’t stop taking bread.

  • 5/5 Merve S. 3 weeks ago on Google • 15 reviews New
    It was a 4hours dining experience like no other. Thank you to the team who made it fun and unforgettable.

  • 5/5 Angela O. 1 month ago on Google • 11 reviews New
    Many months after visiting this restaurant I’m still telling everyone how spectacular my experience was at Spectrum Amsterdam. Spoiler alert: this was hands down my favorite restaurant experience of 2023 in Amsterdam. This is what I tell everyone: 🥷Service (10/10) I rarely give a 10/10, but the service was impeccable. Right when you walk into the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, where you'll find restaurant Spectrum, the service kicks in. They took my coat and led me to the bar for a drink. I forgot my phone in my coat, No problem. They didn't make me go back for it. Just asked which pocket it was in and brought it to me. Amazing. 🤗What was interesting is that at the time they were working with a few “new” team members. If they hadn't told me, I would have never found out. Compliments to the people who trained them. The team at Spectrum restaurant really seemed attuned to each other. Fun fact, the junior sommelier was 18 y/o. 👀Adding to the amazing experience, we got an exclusive peek of the kitchen and wine cellar. Thank you to the team for this amazing add-on experience… 🍴Food (10/10) We took the regular tasting menu and the vegetarian tasting menu. Both were incredible, but the vegetarian menu was my favorite. The food was very experimental, but with recognizable flavors. If you’re a foodie, you will LOVE this restaurant. 
A lot of the dishes shared a common thread, which was sweet/savoury/sour. I made me think of Asian food. 😍The dishes that still to this day stuck with me: - (Vegetarian menu) Mashed potato (literally, kitchen staff comes to your table with a hammer and mashes the potato) with freshly shaved white truffle, cinnamon and egg yolk - (vegetarian menu) WATERMELON with lemongrass, tomato, horseradish, pistachio, mint - It made me think of a croissant because of it’s shape
- (vegetarian menu) - Chocolates: they made chocolates with a reference to a few of the dishes we ate that night. It even came with a card. We treated it like a little game. SO FUN! 🥂Drinks (9/10) I started with one of their signature cocktails, Tulipa. It was a foamy mildly sweet cocktail with vodka, rhubarb amaro, grapefruit juice, elderflower, aquafaba. I loved it. For the wine I chose a classic Meursault from 2019. First glass missed some body, but after some oxygen the acidity lowered and the oak and butter came through. Tip: give it time to air. Later I wanted a pisco sour. They had it and let me choose what pisco I wanted to be used. The pisco sours were too mild for my taste, but the fact that they cold show me 2 types of Peruvian pisco's warmed my heart (since I am partly Peruvian). Another surprise effect. 💫Atmosphere (8/10) The restaurant is in the basement of Hotel Waldorf Astoria. It is intimate as it only hold around 10 tables. The interior is very minimalistic. I typically don’t like that, but since the food is so experimental, I understand that an other interior might give an overwhelming feeling. I think it’s well though through and balances the overal experience. Conclusion (9,3/10) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Wrapping up, Spectrum Amsterdam is more than just dining; it's an unforgettable experience that still has me raving months later. The innovative flavors, attention to detail, and personalized drink selections just added to the magic of the evening. Fun fact: we had so much fun we were the last ones at the restaurant... (see last picture lol) It's EASILY my top Amsterdam restaurants of 2023. Here's hoping it gets that third Michelin star it so clearly deserves. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ I'll be back soon!

  • 5/5 Maarten Van de V. 1 year ago on Google
    That feeling when you enter a restaurant, and you are treated like royalty! Leave any doubts and worries at the entrance, you will be treated to a fantastic experience with every need taken care of. Service was extraordinary. Staff is very comforting and does everything to make your evening pleasant, bringing the experience to the next level. Nothing is left to chance. The food is excellently prepared. Flavours are complex yet balanced, and the presentation is top quality. Fine dining at its best. The wine pairing is interesting, and gets plenty of attention/explanation. Ambiance is classic and warm, with attention to detail. Very comfortable. 100% would recommend for an unforgettable gastronomic journey, with a tasteful little surprise at the end.

  • 5/5 Marco L. 2 years ago on Google
    Mind blowing experience. You sit down expecting great food and you leave knowing it delivered the next level on top of that great food. Textures, tastes and temperatures mixed into superb presentations. Mind blowing. Add to that a kind, efficient, professional and funny service you get a perfect marriage.

  • 5/5 Brad Y. 2 years ago on Google
    Spectrum is fine dining at its best. Nestled inside Waldorf Astoria, the ambiance is perfect, the service, knowledge of the staff, and, of course, the complex favors of the food make it a perfect experience. I highly recommend the wine pairing!

  • 5/5 James D. 2 years ago on Google
    Excellent experience. We found the takeaway chocolates to be very clever and tasty. Service was flawless all the way through and there were several unique and effective flavor combinations (e.g., fish + mango + coffee bean).

  • 5/5 Matthew P. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful atmosphere, wonderful staff (both thd hotel and restaurant) and of course the food is out of this world. If you're a foodie, you must go!

  • 5/5 Obajide R. 7 months ago on Google
    Another wonderful experience at Restaurant Spectrum, every flavour works and I loved almost all the courses. (Sardines was my least favourite out of the exceptional stack but still good). There was a specific plate I loved the last time I was here (Cockles with pistachio, beetroot, black truffle), and wish it was still on the menu but unfortunately it was out. Hope it can return again. Simone was absolutely the best, making our stay and experience more pleasurable. A 3 star should be on the horizon.

  • 4/5 Devina D. 4 years ago on Google
    We had a wonderful time dining in this restaurant! Service was top notch and food was excellent. Since we travelled all the way from Indonesia, it was quite interesting for us that they incorporated some Indonesian spices and mixed it up in creative ways. Would definitely want to go back!

  • 5/5 fairy o. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely stunning. Could not fault it. Everything from food to service was nothing short of perfection.

  • 5/5 Frank C. 3 months ago on Google New
    It’s not cheap, but, man, does it deliver. Very nicely balanced menu, with happy surprises in every course. Impeccable wine matching. And the staff is not only very professional, but you can have a good laugh with most of them. Cannot recommend enough.

  • 5/5 Byoungsung S. 2 years ago on Google
    Good service and full of flavor.


Call +31 20 718 4635 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Restaurants nearby

Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam image
1
Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam
American restaurant
Rock ’n’ roll-themed chain with a high-energy vibe serving burgers & American classics.
$$$ $
4.30 (21.8K reviews)
Foodhallen image
2
Foodhallen
Food court
Hip, cavernous space with stalls prepping global foods from burgers & hot dogs to dumplings & tacos.
$$ $$
4.50 (18.9K reviews)
Winkel 43 image
3
Winkel 43
Cafe
Known for its apple pie, this lively cafe/bar serves hearty European snacks, lunches and dinners.
$$ $$
4.60 (10.9K reviews)
The Seafood Bar image
4
The Seafood Bar
Seafood restaurant
👍👍 The perfect place to enjoy high-quality seafood at a reasonable price. Was surprised to see this large restaurant buzzing at 5pm (both inside and outside!) but after seeing the fresh fish on display and trying the sashimi which just melts in the mouth I understood why. The staff were also very well-...
$$$ $
4.60 (10.1K reviews)
Eye Film Museum image
5
Eye Film Museum
Art museum
Huge collection of Dutch & foreign movies & film posters in contemporary, waterside culture center.
4.40 (9.7K reviews)
Last updated:
()