Restaurant 273 expands with speakeasy Cocktailbar 273 | Culinary craftsmanship in a glass

2-10-2026

Five years after the opening of Restaurant 273, Tommy den Hartog and Gyöngyi Peijnenburg are opening Cocktailbar 273. This stylish speakeasy, hidden in the historic wharf cellar beneath the restaurant on the Oudegracht in Utrecht, opened its doors on 17 September 2026. Handcrafted cocktails, gastronomic bites, top-level hospitality and an atmospheric ambiance come together here.

2 minutes read

New speakeasy in a historic wharf cellar in Utrecht

The wharf cellar has undergone a complete transformation. Through the entrance at the wharf level (beneath Restaurant 273) and a mysterious corridor with light effects, guests step into an intimate, luxurious world. The interior combines royal blue velvet, copper accents and an impressive black marble bar. There is room for 34 guests.

A natural extension of the restaurant

“Cocktailbar 273 feels like my second baby,” says head mixologist Gyöngyi Peijnenburg (35), who previously worked at high-end cocktail bars such as NJOY in Amsterdam. “We want to offer a place where craftsmanship is tangible in every detail, but where the atmosphere is relaxed and warm.” The bar is open to everyone, including those who don’t dine at the restaurant. Restaurant guests can enjoy an aperitif beforehand or end the evening with, for example, an Espresso Martini with bonbons and homemade ice cream.

High-quality cocktails and refined bites at Cocktailbar 273

Head chef and owner Tommy den Hartog (38): “We carry the precision we apply in the kitchen over one-to-one to the cocktail bar. Unique to Utrecht is the combination of expertly mixed cocktails, stylish presentation and refined bites coming straight from the restaurant kitchen, such as our Asian signature oyster, oyster with steak tartare, pata negra, croquettes and caviar.”

Culinary craftsmanship in a glass, including a limited edition shot of ceviche

At Cocktailbar 273, nothing is prefab: all ingredients, including syrups, are prepared in-house and mixed à la minute. For fruit, vegetables and edible flowers, the team works closely with Moestuin Vollenhoven in De Bilt. Until 17 October 2026, guests are offered a unique shot of ceviche. There is also a cocktail named after the owners’ daughter, Nova, and a selection of non-alcoholic cocktails. Wine lovers can choose from the restaurant’s wine list of over 250 wines.

Cocktail workshops at Cocktailbar 273

The team also hosts workshops in which, under professional guidance, participants learn to work with fresh ingredients, different techniques, and how to shake classic and modern cocktails.

Practical information

Restaurant 273 has been a fixture in Utrecht’s gastronomy scene since 2021 and is featured in the Michelin, Gault&Millau and Lekker500 guides. The cocktail bar’s entrance is located at the bottom of the wharf near the Smeebrug. Restaurant manager is Aline Mannes. The bar is open Thursday through Sunday from 6:00 PM; the restaurant is open Thursday through Monday.

Website: Restaurant & Cocktailbar 273

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