Bussia: Fine Italian Dining in the Heart of Amsterdam’s 9 Straatjes
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam’s famous 9 Straatjes, Bussia is a gem for those seeking Italian fine dining. With its reputation for sophisticated flavors and warm hospitality, this restaurant offers a dining experience that goes beyond just a meal—it’s a celebration of Italian culinary art.
A Unique Setting with a Personal Touch
Bussia spans three levels, offering a variety of seating arrangements for diners. We were lucky enough to experience their highest level, which felt almost like private dining. This elevated spot gave us an intimate and exclusive atmosphere, perfect for savoring a fine dining experience.
While the interior of the restaurant leans towards a simple and minimalist design, it still retains a charming and atmospheric vibe. It’s understated elegance—a style that lets the food take center stage.
A Five-Course Journey Through Italy
Our dining experience at Bussia was a five-course feast, showcasing their creative use of seasonal ingredients and traditional Italian techniques. Here’s what we enjoyed:
- Salad of roasted chicory, pumpkin, and black currant
- A refreshing start to the meal, this salad combined earthy roasted chicory and sweet pumpkin with a pop of tartness from the black currants. It was a balanced and vibrant dish that set the tone for the courses to follow.
- Chargrilled quail with roasted parsnip, red cabbage, and raisins
- This was one of my personal favorites. The quail was cooked to perfection, with a smoky char that elevated its natural flavor. The sweetness of the raisins and the roasted parsnip added layers of depth, making this dish a standout.
- Risotto with black trumpet mushrooms and Parmesan cheese
- Creamy, rich, and full of umami, this risotto was another highlight of the evening. The black trumpet mushrooms added an earthy intensity that paired beautifully with the sharpness of the Parmesan. A comforting dish that felt like a warm Italian hug.
- Fish of the day with fregola, cherry tomatoes, calamari, caponata of celery, and gratin of carrot
- The main course was a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The fish was perfectly cooked, tender, and flaky. The accompanying fregola and caponata brought a Mediterranean flair, while the carrot gratin added a touch of sweetness.
- Small tart of croissant dough, caramelized apple, homemade chai latte ice cream, and pistachio crunch
- The dessert was beautifully presented, and while it wasn’t quite to my taste, I could appreciate the effort and creativity behind it. The chai latte ice cream was aromatic and unique, and the pistachio crunch added a satisfying texture.
Exceptional Wine Pairings
Our meal was paired with an impressive selection of wines. We started with a glass of prosecco to set the mood, followed by a crisp white wine that complemented the lighter dishes. Two different red wines rounded out the evening, both of which were rich, well-balanced, and perfectly suited to the flavors of the courses.
Service and Overall Impressions
The service at Bussia was fast, friendly, and professional. The staff ensured our glasses were never empty and that each course arrived promptly and at the right temperature. Their knowledge of the menu and wine pairings added an extra layer of sophistication to the experience.
While every dish was skillfully crafted and flavorful, the chargrilled quail and risotto stood out as the true stars of the meal. These dishes were memorable and showcased the culinary talent of the kitchen. The dessert, though not entirely to my liking, was still well-executed and a fitting end to the meal.
Final Thoughts
Bussia is a wonderful destination for Italian fine dining in Amsterdam. Its location in the charming 9 Straatjes, intimate dining setup, and flavorful dishes make it worth a visit for special occasions or an elevated dining experience.
While the menu is undeniably impressive, and the service impeccable, the minimalist interior may not immediately wow those looking for opulent decor. Still, for those who prioritize taste, quality, and a touch of Italian authenticity, Bussia delivers.
Would I return? For the chargrilled quail and risotto, absolutely. The dessert might not have been my favorite, but the overall experience was more than satisfying. If you’re an Italian food enthusiast or simply looking for a fine dining experience in Amsterdam, give Bussia a try—you won’t regret it!ure you bring your appetite!
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Review: 8.5/10
Price / Quality: 9.5 | Service: 8 | Originality: 8 | Freshness: 10 | Choice: 7
