A Warming Portuguese Winter in Amsterdam
New season. New flavours. A taste of Portugual.
ARCA introduces a selection of new dishes that brings the warmth and flavours of Portuguese cooking to Amsterdam as the winter season sets in. Under the culinary guidance of renowned Portuguese chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, and led by head chef Goncalo Primor de Oliveira Alpalhão, the new additions celebrate seasonal ingredients, Asian influences and the nostalgic traditions of Portuguese gastronomy with a modern twist.
Cured yellowtail with beetroot, Granny Smith apple and warm escabeche balances earthy flavours with freshness and acidity, with a hint of wasabi bringing a subtle Asian heat. Tuna tartare with beurre noisette offers an unexpected pairing inspired by Japanese gastronomy, whilst celebrating a fish deeply valued in Portugal. Monkfish caldeirada with sweet potato brings the comforting depth of a traditional Portuguese coastal stew.
A special highlight is the Arroz de Lavagante, ARCA’s first-ever lobster rice dish. Combining oven-baked rice and lobster with lemongrass, ginger and a spicy lemon-chilli aioli, this Portuguese-inspired creation adds a contemporary, international dimension to a much-loved culinary tradition.
Together, these new dishes reflect Henrique’s Portuguese roots, the changing of the seasons and the diverse influences that continue to shape ARCA’s distinctive culinary identity. Available from
5 November until the introduction of the new spring menu in May. Find ARCA Restaurant & Bar right opposite Amsterdam’s Centraal Station.