Restaurant Blauw Utrecht

The story

Restaurant Blauw Utrecht – Indonesian Rijsttafel with Michelin Bib Gourmand

A Taste of Indonesia in Utrecht

On Springweg in Utrecht, Restaurant Blauw serves Indonesian cuisine that balances tradition with a personal touch. The kitchen draws inspiration from the archipelago’s diverse islands, using authentic ingredients and time-honored techniques. The result is food that is both familiar and surprising – from street-food influences to classic rijsttafels.

Chef Hendra’s Vision

Chef Hendra Subandrio, who grew up in Jakarta and later moved to the Netherlands, leads the Utrecht kitchen. He learned the craft at Blauw Amsterdam under chef Agus Hermawan, and now brings that experience to Utrecht. “Every year I try to go back to Indonesia to taste new flavors and dishes,” he says. “We translate them into our own creations, straight from the heart.” His team of five chefs, all from different parts of Indonesia, each contribute their own regional knowledge and techniques.

The Rijsttafel Experience

Blauw’s internationally acclaimed rijsttafels are available at both locations. These multi-dish spreads allow diners to explore the depth of Indonesian cooking – from mild to spicy, from crispy to tender. The menu changes as Chef Hendra returns from his research trips, introducing dishes like Asam Padeh: fish with a crispy skin, served with a sweet-sour spicy sauce and kemiri nuts. The kitchen also experiments with desserts, such as the Klepontaart created by chef Titi at the Amsterdam location.

Recognition and Awards

Restaurant Blauw Utrecht holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand for 2026, a distinction that highlights good quality, good value cooking. The guide praises the rijsttafel as “a great way to discover how the chef combines spiciness and depth,” and recommends the roasted goat meat. Other accolades include praise from Lonely Planet, Condé Nast Traveller, and Gault & Millau, all noting the authentic yet innovative approach to Indonesian food.