Ciel Bleu — Restaurant in Amsterdam

Over the past years, we’ve frequented many Michelin-starred establishments. During our latest visit to Amsterdam, our dining experiences included Bougainville, The White Room, Spectrum, Ciel Bleu.

Food

Our expectations were high following a previous exceptional experience at Ciel Bleu. Unfortunately, our recent visit fell short. The initial amuse-bouche lacked distinction or unique flavors, The “SIGNATURE OF CHEF ARJAN SPEELMAN | BLUEFIN TUNE | Oscietra caviar | Nori | yuzu kosho“ boasting a title longer than its flavor profile, left us wanting more substance than spectacle. it just tasted like Tuna & Caviar engulfed in gooey sauce we could not understand. While the presentation on the tuna bone was visually striking and aligned with sustainable practices, the dish ultimately prioritized aesthetics over flavor.

The “LOBSTER | Blood orange | Mezcal | Tandoori” was a standout, showcasing a harmonious blend of flavors. However, the remaining courses failed to reach this level.

A particularly distressing incident marred the meal. After consuming the first bite of lamb, I experienced sudden nausea, likely due to the combination of char, strong mustard sauce, and lamb fat. I was forced to leave the table briefly to recover. Unfortunately, my appetite was lost, and I had to cut the meal short. We left before the desserts were served.

Service

The restaurant's response to the situation was inadequate. Given the circumstances – a premature departure, unfinished wine bottle, and untouched desserts – a small gesture of goodwill would have been appreciated. While compensation cannot rectify the experience, acknowledging the inconvenience would have been a basic courtesy.

A more proactive approach to guest well-being is warranted. When a patron becomes ill during a meal, it is essential for the restaurant to demonstrate care and concern. While the specific cause of my discomfort is unclear, the immediate onset of symptoms following the consumption of the lamb dish raises valid concerns. I felt fine up until that bite and recouped 10 minutes after. A restaurant of this caliber should prioritize guest health and safety and be prepared to address such situations with empathy and accountability.

Initial seating was also disappointing. We expressed a preference for a specific table, given a positive previous experience. While eventually accommodated on another table, the initial seating felt like a disregard for our preference.

Service was generally professional and warm. The servers were highly component, professional, friendly and warm. Enough to overcome the bad start. But surely not to compensate for how dinner ended.

Wine Service

Wine service was competent, with the sommelier demonstrating a good understanding of wine preservation. The wine list, while extensive, lacked a sufficient selection of high-quality, affordable options. This is particularly disappointing considering the restaurant's price point.

Ambiance

The ambiance at Ciel Bleu is undeniably captivating. The panoramic city views create a stunning backdrop for an evening out. The restaurant's sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere is the perfect setting for a special occasion.

Value

Ciel Bleu's exorbitant price tag is not commensurate with the quality of the experience. Given the above, the experience does not justify the price.

Verdict

Our previous experience at Ciel Bleu was so exceptional that we enthusiastically recommended it to many friends as a must-visit in Amsterdam. Their positive feedback only reinforced our high opinion of the restaurant. Unfortunately, this visit fell short of our expectations. The food lacked depth of flavor, and a distressing lamb incident further impacted our experience. The restaurant's response to the situation was disappointing, lacking empathy and accountability. Considering the high price point and the wealth of dining options Amsterdam offers, It is unlikely we will return or recommend Ciel Bleu...

The seasonal menu was quite entertaining where each course was proceeded with the introduction of a spice, which we could smell before tasting our food. Some of the staff had rather strong Italian accents, which is charming as always, but please speak a bit slower so we may fully appreciate the interesting stories you are telling.

Dishes were works of art with highest quality ingredients. Scallops were my favourite. The caviar menu had interesting pairings and was especially surprising in the dessert course.

The head waiter was extremely kind to adjust the tables when I asked to give me the window table instead. There is an unfortunate rule that each table has to choose the same menu, which is really unpleasant and draconian. I understand it might be a bit more work, but there were more than 10 tables that night, surely both menus were being prepared at the same time. For a Michelin restaurant, the logistics should not be the reason to limit guests' dining choice. Our headwaiter had to ask special permission from the chef to accommodate us having both menus.

I was quite embarrassed that my guest (the wife of my former boss) was required to remove her baker boy cap, which is not a baseball cap and has a very small brim that does not cover the face. We were told it was for security reasons. This is the first time I have ever heard such a rule and is especially ridiculous at a Michelin restaurant. I imagine terrorists do not sit down for a fancy meal before carrying out atrocities. Anyway there should be some leeway to just show one's face to whatever surveillance camera and then be allowed to wear it again, but my guest was not allowed. You can just tell this was a rule made by a man. Please consider sometimes women have legitimate reasons for wanting to cover their heads, hair loss from illness or chemo for example. So much effort goes into impeccable service, but all that can be defeated with inconsiderations such as this.

I quite liked the fact that some of the service staff were women. When they serve our table, it is far less oppressive than having four tall black suited men towering above us. It's one of those relics from traditional fine dining traditions that should be updated for better...

I'm going to be picky here, because for a restaurant with 2 Michelin stars and the price tag which comes with that designation, things should be flawless and I should be blown away. They weren't, and I wasn't.

The service: Our napkins were placed incorrectly into our laps (crease facing my knees instead of my torso) Despite the restaurant being nearly empty on a Monday night our empty/dirty plates sat in front of us for up to several minutes instead of being picked up right away once we were done with each course. Crumbly bread was served, which inevitably led to crumbs on the table. These were only cleaned away between the main course and the dessert. I had to pick crumbs off the table myself. Before the main course was served we were asked if we wanted a rest period. We asked for a 5 minute break. 15 minutes later and our duck was nowhere to be found. I had to call one of the servers to ask about it's whereabouts. Received no apology on the delay.

The food: Several of the savory courses were overly salty. This is a sin in a place where you should be tasting the goodness of the seasonal ingredients. The pre-dessert was sorbet, fruit, and meringue served on a thin rice paper. The server took time to explain that we should roll the ingredients inside the rice paper, like an Amsterdam rolled cigarette. This was a bit gimmicky but cute and I was excited to do so. But the paper didn't actually roll. It was brittle and barely had any give as I tried to fold it awkwardly to fit the thing in my mouth. It crumbled around me as a took a bite. Since it was our anniversary they gifted us an extra treat for dessert... apple pie. This was a very nice gesture. However, while it was beautiful with gold leaf and all, the crust was hard and tasteless. I have sincerely had better apple pie from Albert Heijn.

Overall I was disappointed with our experience. I doubt that we'll...