Multiple culinaire recognitions
This summer, we received multiple culinary recognitions for Restaurant Ciel Bleu at Hotel Okura Amsterdam.
La Liste top 1000
Ciel Bleu has been named one of the top three restaurants in the Netherlands by La Liste Top 1000 Restaurants in the World for 2023. Thanks to chef Arjan Speelman and Maître Francesco Simonelli, our dedicated team, our wonderful guests, and all contributors to this success.
Arjan has been leading the kitchen at Ciel Bleu since 2022. His journey at restaurant Ciel Bleu in Hotel Okura Amsterdam began over twenty years ago. In 2003, he was asked to co-lead the Ciel Bleu kitchen team, bringing the restaurant to double Michelin-star status by utilizing the strengths and talents of each team member and leading a dedicated and engaged group of individuals. At Ciel Bleu, Arjan and his team aim to create a world-class dining experience and achieve the ultimate taste by infusing passion, expertise, and finesse. The artisanal and traditional cuisine are blended with inspirations from all corners of the world.
Joop Braakhekke Hospitality Award
Our sommelier at restaurant Ciel Bleu, Noël Vanwittenbergh, received the Joop Braakhekke Hospitality Award for his exceptional contributions to gastronomy. The well-deserved recipient will mentor young talent Marly Sauer in the industry for a year under the supervision of esteemed jury members. This initiative aims to inspire and promote the next generation of restaurant professionals. We are incredibly proud and want to congratulate Noël wholeheartedly.
Noël is a distinguished sommelier, known for his exceptional palate and dedication to the world of wine. He has previously been awarded the title of Honorary Gastronomy Sommelier. In 2007, his journey took him to the renowned restaurant Ciel Bleu** at Hotel Okura in Amsterdam, where he crafted masterful wine pairings that elevate the culinary experience to new heights. Noël’s expertise and passion for wine have earned him respect in the industry.
Wine spectator 2023
Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Awards 2023 recognized the extraordinary wine selection of restaurant Ciel Bleu. It’s an international recognition in three categories: Award of Excellence, Best of Award of Excellence, and Grand Award. Ciel Bleu has been receiving the Best Award of Excellence for over ten years in a row. Thanks to Noël Vanwittenbergh and Niccolò Benigni for their dedication to the finest wine selection!
100 chefs
Finally, we are proud to announce that our two Michelin star chef Arjan Speelman was part of the lineup of 100 Chefs. This prestigious culinary event is organized by Gault&Millau, a highly respected restaurant and hospitality guide. The event showcases the culinary skills and creations of top chefs from the Netherlands and beyond.
