My wife and I had the honour and pleasure of dining at Senses in Amsterdam, Holland. A small 22 couverts restaurant, on the ground floor of the Albus Hotel. The kitchen is masterfully and creatively run, by Chef Renaud Goigoux.
The restaurant offers from two to seven courses, bringing to life the Chef’s choice tasting menu.
The restaurant serves only fish, shellfish and vegetarian creations. No meat appears on the menu at all. The genre is definitely French haute cuisine with hints and dashes of Japan and Thailand, without becoming an all too overplayed fusion concept. Particular attention is given to the charcoals that bring the delightful smokiness to a couple of the dishes. The subtle and delicate introduction of Yuzu, Lemon Grass, Caifir Lime to one of Renaud’s signature dishes brought me vivid memories of my journeys through the Orient.
Chef Renaud is accompanied by Sarah one of two of his sous chefs. I’m afraid I had already drunk a little wine, when we were offered a tour of the minuscule kitchen. I feel embarrassed to admit, I can’t remember his name.
The front of house was shared by Anastasia, Jose Maria, Rosa and Noumou. It was a beautifully orchestrated ballet of wine and food, all elegantly and perfectly served,
We went for the “All In” choice bringing the 7 courses with paired wines. The wines that had been chosen, for this event, were not from the great vineyards of France and other European collaborators, however there was purpose, deep wine knowledge and delicacy in the choices. All wines harmonized perfectly with each dish.
Be prepared for a two and a half hour wonderful experience. Both chef and his sous-chefs come to the table to serve the specific creams, foams and bouillons.
The price of this wonderful meal, came out to EUR400 for the two of us.
The whole dining experience from: the ambience; the friendly and warm staff engagement; the kitchen tour offered by the chef; lastly, and most importantly, the delicious, innovative and sensorial experience of each individual dish, makes me wonder why this restaurant has not yet received its first Michelin star. I would like to suggest that the Gods of Michelin should really drop by one of these days. We read about the restaurant in the Michelin Guide, so decided to try it out. We were unsure because the guide says little about this fabulous restaurant.
I highly recommend Senses to all those that travel through the Nederlands. Its worth a detour to eat there. Make sure to reserve a day or two in advance owing to the small amount of tables.
Congratulation to you chef Renaud Goigoux, your cuisine is delightful and your team fabulously prepared.