TAIKO CUISINE: A CELEBRATION OF HANAMI
words by NATALIE GAL
Amsterdam's esteemed Museum Quarter, a global hub for art and culture, is also your next destination for exceptional gastronomy. Nestled within the magnificent Conservatorium Hotel, one of the city's most architecturally stunning buildings, lies Taiko Cuisine, an award-winning restaurant celebrated for its innovative Asian-inspired dishes.
This spring, Taiko embarks on an exciting new chapter with the unveiling of its Hanami Menu for 2025. This special offering is a tribute to the Japanese tradition of Hanami, the cherished celebration of cherry blossom season. For those unfamiliar, Hanami literally means "flower watching," a beautiful custom of appreciating the fleeting beauty of flowers, almost exclusively referring to the delicate sakura (cherry) blossoms. The menu itself is an intersection of fresh Dutch ingredients and Japanese culinary philosophy, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Highlights from the Hanami Menu are: a chilled asparagus curry cream, brightened with Dutch shrimp and aromatic Thai basil; tender Balfegó tuna, in floral shapes and paired with a vibrant sakura ponzu; and rich teriyaki duck, presented with asparagus prepared two ways, all finished with a silken sakura gel and delicate edible blossoms.
Beyond its culinary excellence, Taiko has an outstanding and dedicated team. They are warm with a welcoming spirit, and profound knowledge of the culture they represent. And! To further elevate the ambiance, live music fills the restaurant every Friday and Saturday evening!
