Amsterdam will gain a new culinary hotspot starting in September 2026. Michelin-starred chef Sidney Schutte is opening The Gym, located in a former gymnasium next to The College Hotel. “With The Gym, I am finally opening the restaurant I have always envisioned: a place where guests can dine at a high level, without being tied to a menu for hours.”
The name of Sidney Schutte hardly needs an introduction within the gastronomic world. The chef was at the helm of restaurant Spectrum for twelve years, which earned two Michelin stars under his leadership. He is now also active with restaurants in the Netherlands, Mexico, and Malaysia, the latter two of which have also been awarded a Michelin star.
With The Gym, Schutte consciously chooses a different approach to fine dining. Not a traditional setting where you are stuck with an extensive multi-course menu all evening, but rather a vibrant place where refined dishes, good wines, and a relaxed atmosphere come together. A restaurant where you can just as easily enjoy a full dinner as spontaneously drop in for a few dishes and a good glass of wine.
The new establishment opens next to The College Hotel Amsterdam and will have its own entrance. The award-winning terrace between the hotel and the restaurant will also become part of the concept. The former gymnasium is currently being completely renovated in collaboration with creative studio D/Dock, which is responsible for the new interior.
Zeeland roots
His signature will remain clearly recognizable at The Gym as well. Think pure flavors, a strong focus on seasonal produce, and a prominent role for fish, crustaceans, and shellfish. His Zeeland roots will be subtly discernible on the menu, while the predominantly à la carte concept contributes to the restaurant's accessible character.
Not only will The Gym itself bear Schutte’s culinary signature, but he will also be in charge of the entire culinary offering for The College Hotel. From breakfast to dishes in the lobby, the same refined style should soon be palpable everywhere. Atilay Uslu, CEO of Corendon Hotels & Resorts, looks forward to the opening: “With The Gym, we are adding a restaurant that matches the energy of Amsterdam and The College Hotel. Sidney’s cuisine, the atmosphere of the place, and the ambiance complement each other perfectly. I am truly looking forward to welcoming hotel guests, Amsterdammers, and everyone who loves good food to this beautiful location.”
A notable detail is that the location remains connected to talent development. Both the hotel and the restaurant continue to collaborate with the ROC of Amsterdam to train young hospitality talent. A fitting purpose for a building that was once a school itself.