Caroline Henry

Delicious antipodean fusion food!

I discovered this restaurant in 2009 in restaurant week and it is the restaurant I have visited the most since living in Haarlem - 6 times up till now! The cuisine is very new world, mainly focussed on South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, but generally dishes also have an asian twist. The menu changes regularly and very often Spekatakel has a special 3-5 course menu special often with the option of a wine pairing. The restaurant is owned by 2 brothers, the one is a chef and the other is front of house and sommelier. His wine knowledge is extensive and he really tries to get you the best wine (ie the wine you will enjoy most) with the dishes. I have taken several winemaker friends there and all of them have loved it!! The wine list is small - again it changes regularly - and is done in a very easy way - wines are put in flavour groups - eg light and fruity, full bodied, etc so it is easy for customers to make a choice. The service is excellent and I would highly recommend anyone visiting Haarlem to eat here. The restaurant is only open for dinner and reservations are recommended.

Tags:   restaurant   haarlem   new world   fusion   great winelist

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Cool place for an inexpensive meal with a good glass of wine

Spaarne 66 is located near the water (Spaarne) and a nice relaxed restaurant. They do a 3 course menu for 25 Euro's and the food is always good. They have a great selection of wine by the glass - my favourite at the moment is the Vino Verde - and have more wines by the bottle. Reservations are not needed but if there are a few of you I would recommend you reserve.

Tags:   restaurant   haarlem   winebar

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