Dear reader,
East meets West at Hotel Okura Amsterdam.
While the Netherlands celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8th, Japan celebrated Hinamatsuri 雛祭り(also known as Girls’ Day) on March 3rd, highlighting the importance of the younger generation. During Hinamatsuri, prayers are offered for the health, prosperity and happiness of girls. This colourful celebration includes enjoying sweet treats and displaying beautiful ornamental dolls on red carpets.
At Hotel Okura Amsterdam, we embrace diversity in culture and tradition, reflected in our team composition and our unique Omotenashi guest experience. I am proud of our harmony; the inclusive and respectful environment we provide where everyone feels valued and at home.
Michiel Roelfsema
General Manager
Hotel Okura Amsterdam
TEAM NL BOCUSE D’OR
This month, two culinary talents, Chef Marco van der Wijngaard and commis, Stijn de Jong, participated in the Bocuse d’Or competition, the world’s most prestigious culinary contest. Ciel Bleu’s Executive Chef Arjan Speelman coached the duo, preparing them for this event. Okura’s cooking studio was transformed into a training kitchen specifically for the Bocuse d’Or competition.
The team achieved the eleventh place, a proud accomplishment among 20 countries in Europe. The European final took place in Trondheim, Norway.
YAMAZATO – DISNEY+NL SHŌGUN PREMIERE
Our Chef de Cuisine from Yamazato restaurant, Tsukasa Hagimori, and his team prepared Michelin-starred dishes for the premiere of Disney+ NL Shōgun. The drama series is set in 17th-century Japan and is based on the novel by British-American author James Clavell. The Yamazato team treated guests to an authentic Japanese culinary Kaiseki Ryori experience and sparkling sake at the Royal Theater Tuschinski, completed with beautiful Bonsai trees and live Shakuhachi performances by Hélène Codjo.
NEW CHEF DE CUISINE CIEL BLEU
Mike Klaassen is back at Ciel Bleu. He fulfills the role of Chef de Cuisine in the kitchen of two-star chef Arjan Speelman. According to Arjan, Mike’s down-to-earth character and high ambition make him outstanding in his field. Mike has walked in the top echelons of the culinary world and brings that experience to Amsterdam.
Guests can look forward to an unforgettable gastronomic experience under the leadership of this dynamic duo.
GREEN GLOBE PLATINUM MEMBER
With pride, we once again received the Green Globe Platinum certification on March 14th; the premier global certification program for sustainable travel and tourism.
Since 2013, Okura has been a member of Green Globe. We promote sustainability following the principles of Kaizen. This Japanese philosophy advocates for lasting changes. Annually, we strive for progress in adhering to the highest sustainability standards, which are essential for maintaining our Platinum status at Green Globe.
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS
Planning to stay in Amsterdam for a few days? Receive a 20% discount on your room rate when booking four nights or more. Call our reservation team directly to plan your stay and take advantage of this exclusive offer. Discover Amsterdam and enjoy a carefree stay. We look forward to welcoming you!
SAKURA EXPERIENCE
Experience spring in full bloom with our Sakura Experience package. Admire Sakura blossoms and Okura tulips in our gardens and at the Keukenhof. Enjoy our delightful Sakura Afternoon Tea with a glass of artisanal Cuvée Okura, including an overnight stay, breakfast, Keukenhof access and a late check-out.