Kanata | 9.1

Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at Kanata, a Wagyu restaurant in Amsterdam. It was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. Kanata is a small, intimate restaurant with maybe 8-10 tables, creating a cozy and exclusive atmosphere. The quality of the food was incredibly high, and every detail of the dining experience was thoughtfully curated.

We decided to go for the Wagyu tasting menu to try as many variations of Wagyu as possible. Each dish was delicious in its own way, showcasing the versatility and rich flavors of this premium beef. The tasting menu included an appetizer, eight Wagyu dishes, a dessert, and a choice of coffee or tea. The variety and presentation of each course were impressive and added to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

We had an appetizer, 8 wagyu dishes, a dessert and a coffee or tea in the tasting menu. Among the standout dishes, one of the most memorable was the “Yukhoe,” which was akin to a Wagyu steak tartare. This dish had a unique texture that was almost ethereal, with a delicacy that made it seem as if it wasn’t even meat. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the presentation was elegant, making it a highlight of the meal. Another standout was the Shabu Shabu, featuring A5 Wagyu briefly cooked in beef stock with vegetables and ponzu sauce. The brief cooking allowed the meat to retain its tenderness while absorbing the rich flavors of the broth and sauce.

The last dish that was so good it is still on my mind is the Yakizuki. This A5 Wagyu was dipped in sukiyaki sauce, served with pasteurized egg yolk and Japanese rice. The combination of the savory sauce, creamy yolk, and perfectly cooked rice created a harmonious and indulgent flavor experience. The Wagyu’s melt-in-your-mouth quality was accentuated by these complementary elements, making it a truly unforgettable dish.

I read a few reviews on Google that some people thought the amount of Wagyu served for the price was not enough, but I completely disagree. Not only is the meat itself quite expensive, but you also pay for the exceptional service. Our waiter stood by our table for well over half an hour to prepare the food for us. It felt like having your own personal chef at the table, enhancing the intimate dining experience with a level of attention and care that made us feel incredibly well-catered to.

The restaurant’s attention to detail extended beyond the food and service. The ambiance of Kanata was refined and welcoming, with a focus on creating a serene dining environment that allowed us to fully enjoy our meal. The decor was understated yet elegant, complementing the high quality of the cuisine without overshadowing it.

Overall, the experience at Restaurant Kanata was truly unforgettable. The quality of the food, combined with the exceptional service, made for a truly memorable meal. We will definitely be returning to Kanata in the future. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Amsterdam, be sure to check out Kanata. The restaurant provides a remarkable journey through the world of Wagyu beef that is well worth experiencing.

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Review: 9.1/10 

Price / Quality: 8 .5 | Service: 10 | Atmosphere: 7 | Originality: 10 | Freshness: 10 | Choice: 9