On a crisp winter evening, 17 December, we had the pleasure of dining at De Silveren Spiegel, a hidden gem located just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
This intimate restaurant, housed in two meticulously preserved 17th-century stepped-gable buildings, masterfully combines historical charm with modern culinary excellence.
Run by the Van der Hoff family, De Silveren Spiegel showcases the extraordinary talents of Executive Chef Yves van der Hoff, one of Amsterdam’s youngest and most promising chefs at just 28 years old. His journey from peeling potatoes and cleaning lobster in his grandmother’s kitchen to crafting Michelin-worthy dishes has been as inspiring as his cooking.
Ambience and Setting
The restaurant’s authentic interior, complete with a cosy open fireplace framed by traditional Delft tiles, exudes warmth and nostalgia. The candlelit tables, polished silverware, and patterned porcelain plates enhance the homely yet refined atmosphere. While the setting takes you back to the Dutch Golden Age, the contrast on the plate is striking—modern, detailed, and inventive dishes that tell a story of tradition and innovation.
In the kitchen with very talented Chef Yves
The intimate layout of the dining room feels like stepping into a time capsule, yet the energy in the kitchen—a place we briefly visited—is vibrant and contemporary. During our visit, we were warmly greeted by Chef Yves’ charming mother, Francisca Van der Hoff, who kindly arranged for us to meet her son. This personal touch extended to a photograph with the chef and a short conversation in the kitchen, where Yves enthusiastically shared his philosophy of using exceptional Dutch ingredients to create refined culinary art.
During our exchange, Chef Yves surprised us with a thoughtful question: “Which was your favourite dish from tonight’s dinner?” This inquiry, offered with genuine curiosity, reinforced his commitment to understanding and connecting with his guests.
Culinary Excellence
Chef Yves van der Hoff’s menu is a love letter to Dutch produce, reimagined through a French lens with masterful precision. His culinary journey, which includes stints at renowned establishments like the Okura Hotel, Ron Blaauw (* Michelin), and De Bokkedoorns (** Michelin), has clearly shaped his exceptional style.
The evening began with kingfish, delicately paired with horseradish, cucumber, radish, and seaweed. The dish was light and fresh, a perfect prelude to what followed. A beautifully prepared salt-crusted turnip came next, served with pumpkin and a creamy vegetable beurre blanc, showcasing the earthy and sweet flavours of Dutch winter produce.
The third course, mussels, featured a Champagne sauce that added elegance, while samphire, lovage vinaigrette, and mussel foam brought freshness and complexity. The turbot that followed was a masterclass in balance—its buttery texture enhanced by tangy pickles, capers, parsley, and a classic Hollandaise sauce.
For the main course, veal took centre stage, paired with a sweet and savoury shallot marmalade, black garlic, and a rich veal jus. The interplay of flavours in this dish reflected Yves’ mastery of traditional techniques with a modern twist.
Dessert was a delightful milk and honey, featuring creamy milk ice cream from Lindenhoff, almond sponge cake, and honey crisp. This harmonious and playful creation brought a light and satisfying end to the meal.
Wine Pairings
De Silveren Spiegel’s wine list is as carefully curated as its menu. A focus on natural and French wines ensured that each pairing complemented the courses beautifully. The sommelier guided us through biodynamic and artisanal selections, such as a crisp white from the Loire Valley that paired elegantly with the seafood courses.
Service and Hospitality
Service at De Silveren Spiegel is exceptional. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about the dishes, wines, and the restaurant’s history. The Van der Hoff family’s involvement added a personal and warm touch, with Chef Yves’ enthusiasm and Francisca’s gracious hospitality elevating the evening to something truly special.
Meeting Chef Yves in the kitchen after our meal and discussing our favourite dishes made us feel valued as guests, while also providing insight into the dedication behind every plate.
De Silveren Spiegel is a dining experience that lingers in the memory long after the meal has ended. While it is firmly in the high-price range (€€€€), the quality of the ingredients, creativity of the dishes, and impeccable service make it worth every euro. It’s no surprise that this restaurant is recognised by the MICHELIN Guide and is undoubtedly deserving of a star.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking an unforgettable culinary journey, De Silveren Spiegel is a must-visit destination in Amsterdam. Chef Yves van der Hoff’s innovative take on Dutch cuisine, paired with the historical charm of the setting and the personal touches of the Van der Hoff family, makes this one of the most unique dining experiences in Europe.
Read also:
A Calmer Christmas: Amsterdam’s Strategy to Balance Tourism and Livability
