in Amstelveen, Netherlands

Lakeside Elegance and Culinary Brilliance at Aan de Poel
Tucked along the serene shores of Lake De Poel in Amstelveen, Restaurant Aan de Poel has been a beacon of Dutch fine dining since its opening in 2007. Founded by chef Stefan van Sprang and sommelier Robbert Jan Veuger the restaurant was born from a shared vision forged during their time at the acclaimed Ron Blaauw restaurant. Together, they transformed a tranquil lakeside property into a destination that marries elegance with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Craftsmanship
Stefan van Sprang’s culinary roots trace back to the legendary De Swaen, where he trained under Cas Spijkers and honed his passion for precision and creativity. His rise to head chef at Ron Blaauw marked a turning point—where he met Robbert and began laying the foundation for Aan de Poel. Robbert’s expertise in wine and hospitality brought a warm, approachable style to the front-of-house, creating a seamless dining experience that reflects their collaborative ethos.

Since earning its first Michelin star in 2009 and a second in 2013, Aan de Poel has continued to evolve while staying true to its core values: craftsmanship, collaboration, and a deep connection to its surroundings. As a proud member of the Alliance Gastronomique Néerlandaise since 2012, the restaurant remains at the forefront of culinary excellence in the Netherlands.

A Friday Afternoon to Remember
Step inside the spacious dining room and you’re greeted with panoramic views of Lake De Poel—especially lively on a Friday afternoon, when the buzz of conversation adds warmth to the elegant setting. The experience begins with a vibrant amuse of pineapple and mango, delicately spiced to awaken the palate.
But the true standout? A dish that defies expectations: lobster tail paired with sauerkraut. It’s a bold combination, yet executed with such finesse that the sauerkraut becomes a subtle, harmonious element—almost forgotten, yet essential to the dish’s depth. When a chef can make you forget you’re eating sauerkraut and simply revel in the flavor, you know you’re in the hands of a master.

Chef: Stefan van Sprang
Date of visit: October 31st 2025
Website: https://aandepoel.nl/
Michelin: 2 stars
Gault & Millau: 17
La Liste: 90.5
OAD: R2