A SEASONAL SYMPHONY AT V12: AMSTERDAM NOORD’S BEST-KEPT SECRET

words by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI

A full circle moment — I found myself back at V12 almost a year after my first visit, and it was just as magical as I remembered. The vibe? Still effortlessly cool. The terrace? Perfectly sunlit. And the menu? A bold and vibrant expression of seasonal creativity that’s impossible not to love.

We kicked things off with a tartare of white asparagus, sea greens, and a seaweed foam — light, delicate, and full of spring. The ceviche with leche de tigre and aji amarillo brought a playful, zesty kick, rounded out by a touch of orange. A surprise intermezzo came in the form of burrata paired with kiwi, white asparagus, and pistachio — a combo I didn’t know I needed.

For mains, I went vegetarian with the Jerusalem artichoke, smoked corn, pineapple, cavolo nero, and Amalfi lemon oil — an earthy-sweet plate full of personality. But the shio koji bavette with sweet potato purée and bimi was also a standout: umami-rich, tender, and deeply comforting.

And of course, dessert didn’t disappoint. The dragon fruit ice cream with blueberry granita and basil crèmeux was like a garden party in every bite. But the show-stealer? The miso chocolate chip cookie with vanilla ice cream. I’d come back for that alone.

Add to that a digestif — I chose the plum wine sake with almond and honey — and the evening felt complete.

V12 continues to be one of Amsterdam Noord’s most exciting spots. Inventive without being pretentious, welcoming without trying too hard — and always serving something surprising.