Magical experience
An insane hotspot, 100 metres above the Amsterdam skyline. Originally designed in 1966 for Royal Shell by Amsterdam architect Arthur Staal and transformed into a vibrant vertical city where there is something to do 24/7. Only the Look Out, with those over-the-edge swings for daredevils and the distinctive, architectural ‘crown’ of the original tower are at an even higher altitude. Far up in the sky, all the noise of the city fades away and you enjoy an ever-changing backdrop with bites & drinks. Wesley Schipper, General Manager Restaurant Ma'dam & Restaurant Moon: ‘Whatever the weather conditions, here it's a magical experience. From thunderstorms to rising above the fog and seeing the sunshine: it's all equally beautiful.' Winking: ‘Paris has the Eiffel Tower; our capital has the A'dam Tower.’
The 37-year-old Wesley, seasoned, old-school restaurateur and purebred Amsterdammer, is the calm in the storm of thousands of tourists and locals who want to experience the breathtaking view from the skybar every day. From a small-scale Michelin-starred restaurant elsewhere in the city, he moved into ‘the tower’ eight years ago and has literally worked his way to the top from the lower restaurant Moon. ‘Together with my team, I provide our guests with a great time.’
Edgy personality
While the panorama plays an important role in the concept, Ma'dam's personification into an edgy personality is also a hit. The storytelling from a lively friend in the heart of Amsterdam who has a lot to tell you creates an instant connection. She is elegant and a little naughty. Sophisticated and up for adventure. Ma'dam loves life and enjoys every moment of it. Her energy is infectious and her hospitality heartwarming. ‘We host an ever-changing crowd,’ says Wesley. 'During the day it teems with tourists for the Look Out and the VR Rollercoaster Experience, complemented by lunch or drinks. In the evening - with panoramic views of the illuminated city and a sky full of stars - locals flock to our restaurant for Asian-inspired shared dining. Later in the evening, the restaurant transforms into an atmospheric Skybar where mixologists tantalise your taste buds with craft cocktails, while guests dance the night away to the beats of top DJs. We want to offer our guests an unforgettable experience.'
Feminine and frivolous
In the interior, Ma'dam's feminine slant has been translated by stylist Marissa Gemmeken into warm, red-pink tones, exuberant flowers and soft upholstery with eye-catching prints. Wesley: ‘Appearance and use of colour are an important part of the overall experience. The restaurant now has a contemporary style - bold and with an Asian touch - that appeals to both Dutch and international guests.' Because the restaurant floor is designed as a stage in three different heights, all 65 guests can enjoy the view from anywhere.' The Rodar bar stools and chairs from the same family form unity yet are playful and unique thanks to their different, cuddly upholstery. They form a beautiful ensemble with the Mino barstool from the Originals collection. In the Lily armchairs, guests can relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenes of the city. Waldorf hockers and the versatile Tempo give the interior flexibility and a frivolous Ma'dam touch.
Unique location
Amsterdam Noord has been on a popularity march for a while now. ‘With the ferry from the city centre, you can go back and forth across the IJ day and night,’ Wesley explains. 'You'll find a lot of good hospitality industry in this part of town and that has a reinforcing effect on each other. Noord is becoming a contemporary neighbourhood with lots of creative concepts. An environment in which Ma'dam thrives very well.'
She knows how to throw a party and always makes her guests feel welcome. This personality is reflected in everything the restaurant offers and does justice to their slogan: ‘Nothing brings people together like good food and great music.’
