A unique caviar dessert at R21 in Amsterdam
Caviar continues to grow in popularity and is increasingly appearing in surprising combinations. Back in April 2023, we wrote about caviar ‘bumps’, but now we’re seeing pairings with pizza and even desserts — as recently spotted in the United States. A striking sweet-and-salty combination! Caviar bumps have now gained popularity in Europe too, but would we see caviar appear in desserts here as well? That seemed uncertain, until we discovered a similar dessert at restaurant R21 in Amsterdam. Their creation, a combination of Asetra caviar with crème fraîche ice cream and feuilletine, sounds absolutely delicious!
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R21 | Fine dining with international flair in the heart of Amsterdam
Located in a historic building in the old city center of Amsterdam, you’ll find Restaurant 21 (R21), founded by top chef Orlando David. The name refers to the 21 years of culinary experience David brings to the table (including at the former three-Michelin-starred restaurant Oud Sluis). Add to that his love for global cuisines, studied during his many travels and you get R21’s flavour profile: a contemporary, international kitchen of the highest standard. And their inventive dessert, mentioned above, is a perfect example!
Fine dining made accessible
R21 aims to make fine dining accessible to a wide audience. Guests can choose a 4- or 6-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons, always including at least one vegetarian dish. À la carte dining is also an option. Start your evening with a cocktail and bar bites such as smoked eel brioche or oysters from the Dutch Zeeland region. And yummy bread with beurre noisette! A carefully curated wine pairing completes the experience, and wine lovers are welcome to visit the cellar.
Ingredients are sourced locally and seasonally wherever possible, including foraged herbs, North Sea fish, and beef from Dutch dual-purpose cattle. R21 also makes its own oils, stocks, syrups, and uses fermentation to preserve seasonal flavours.
Interior at R21
The interior radiates relaxed elegance, combining a modern, clean design with the historical elements of the building. Designed by interior architect Merijn Gerlach of Waterproof/Design Quarter, the space reflects David’s vision. He even designed the tables and cushions himself. The art on the walls is by Lebanese-Dutch multidisciplinary artist and family friend Bilal Chahal, while the black-and-white Escher prints come from David’s mother.
Being listed as a newcomer in the 2024 Michelin Guide marks an important milestone for R21 — but according to David, this is just the beginning: “We strive every day to deliver the very best for our guests.”
Website: R21 Amsterdam
