Had the pleasure of dining at Bistro de la Mer in Amsterdam for lunch during the Dining with a Star event (running from 11 November until 15 December 2024), and it was such a treat! For just €38.50, I enjoyed a fantastic three-course Michelin-starred meal—absolute value for the quality.
The meal kicked off with a cozy dashi consommé (they swapped it in for the bisque due to my allergy, which was super thoughtful). This broth was light but packed a flavorful punch and set the vibe for the rest of the meal. Next up, a chilled mackerel dish that was all fresh, zesty goodness—every bite felt like a mini seaside escape. Then came the main event, titled squid "in its ink." This was such a unique dish—deeply savory and rich, with layers of umami that were complex without being overwhelming. It was a real highlight and felt like a celebration of bold, satisfying flavors.
Dessert brought a playful twist: grapefruit sorbet topped with a brûlée-style crust. It was like a tangy-sweet fireworks show on my taste buds, with that crackly brûlée layer giving it an extra pop of texture and sweetness which cuts well with the sour note of the grapefruit. And let's not forget the bread for the table: warm, crusty, and the ideal start to each course.
All in all, Bistro de la Mer absolutely nailed it with this special menu and they completed the service for me within 1 hour! So great!! If you're in town and want to taste some Michelin magic without the usual price tag, don't sleep on this deal!