Following a successful debut in Bali, Chef Blake Thornley introduces his expressive take on the archipelago’s culinary heritage to the Netherlands.
Finding a dining space that captures the true essence of an Asian archipelago without falling into predictable tropes is rare. Many diners actively seek out menus that offer historical depth alongside a modern edge. For those searching for bold expressions of flavour, the Dutch port city now offers a compelling new answer. This year, Spice by Blake officially opened its doors in the heart of Rotterdam.
The concept is the brainchild of Chef Blake Thornley, who is highly regarded for his innovative work at Mozaic Restaurant in Ubud. This new European outpost takes the foundations of Indonesian cooking and applies a highly contemporary lens. To ensure the vision translates authentically from Bali, daily operations are steered by Chef Axl alongside Chef Brandon. Both men trained extensively under Thornley to master the specific techniques required for this venture.
Drawing inspiration from the historical Spice Route, the kitchen emphasises social interaction. The menu is structured entirely around communal eating. Diners can build their meal by selecting from an array of quick bites or substantial main plates. The aroma of roasted aromatics and fiery sambals fills the dining room, signalling a culinary direction that is unapologetically robust.
Familiar profiles are elevated through a strict focus on high-quality produce. By meticulously balancing heat with sharp acidity, the culinary team creates remarkable depth in every bite. This technique allows the natural vibrancy of regional ingredients to shine, delivering a lively taste of the islands straight to the Netherlands.
The atmosphere inside the venue mirrors the energetic nature of the food. Stripping away formal stiffness, this dynamic space makes high-quality dining feel highly approachable. Guests will find a genuinely warm environment where lively conversation plays out against the clatter of shared plates. Here, Thornley designed the venue to frame traditional flavours in a completely new light. The restaurant speaks directly to modern European palates while remaining firmly anchored to its roots. This makes Spice by Blake a significant addition to Rotterdam’s growing culinary landscape, proving that historical foodways can still thrive beautifully today.
Spice by Blake
Pannekoekstraat 40A
3011 LB Rotterdam, Netherlands
T: +31(0)102266133
E: info@spicebyblake.com
W: spicebyblake.com/en
IG: @spice_by_blake
