Ciao! I’m Micaela, and welcome to The Balanced Plate – Amsterdam’s premier Italian catering and cooking experience company.
Since 2022, I’ve been bringing the warmth of Italian cuisine to Amsterdam through seasonal catering, intimate cooking workshops, and unforgettable Italian Aperitivo Nights. What started as a passion for sharing my love of Italian food has grown into a thriving business that’s catered dozens of memorable events and hosted hundreds of food lovers across the city.
My Italian Cooking Philosophy
I believe cooking should be quick, easy, and delicious – without compromising on authenticity. My approach combines traditional Italian techniques with seasonal, local Dutch ingredients, creating dishes that are both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event or learning to make fresh pasta from scratch, every experience is designed to be warm, welcoming, and unforgettable.
What Makes The Balanced Plate Special
- Seasonal & Sustainable Catering: I source from Amsterdam’s local markets, creating Italian dishes with Dutch seasonal ingredients
- Flexible Event Solutions: From intimate dinner parties to corporate events for up to 100 guests
- Authentic Italian Expertise: HACCP and social hygiene certified, with continuous learning through specialized Italian cooking courses
- Personal Touch: Every event receives personalized attention and authentic Italian flair
Catering Excellence
From intimate dinner parties to corporate celebrations, I create memorable Italian dining experiences throughout Amsterdam that bring people together. My catering features:
- Seasonal Italian menus with local Dutch ingredients
- Flexible service options designed to encourage conversation and connection
- Dietary accommodations seamlessly integrated
- Professional presentation with authentic Italian flair
- Personal engagement at every event – I believe the best meals happen when people truly connect
- Trusted by companies like Netflix and local community organizations
Workshop Experiences
For those who love hands-on learning, I offer intimate cooking workshops focused on creating meaningful connections through food:
- Handmade Pasta Workshops: Learn traditional techniques while bonding over shared culinary adventures
- Tiramisu Masterclasses: Perfect the art of Italy’s most beloved dessert in a warm, social setting
- Italian Aperitivo Nights: Experience authentic Italian social dining culture and meaningful conversation
- Corporate Team Building: Strengthen workplace bonds through collaborative cooking, with structured activities that encourage genuine team connections
Small groups (10-12 guests) ensure personalized attention, plenty of time for conversation, and the relaxed atmosphere where real connections flourish. It’s not just about learning to cook – it’s about the stories shared, laughter exchanged, and bonds formed around the table.
My Amsterdam Story
Based in Amsterdam, my journey with The Balanced Plate began as a passionate side project while working as a scientist in cancer research. What started as weekend cooking workshops – sharing my love for authentic Italian cuisine with fellow Amsterdammers – gradually grew into something much bigger.
The turning point came at the start of 2024, when I made the bold decision to leave my scientific career behind and fully dedicate myself to The Balanced Plate. It was a leap of faith that I’ve never looked back from!
This career switch has allowed me to combine my analytical mindset from research with my creative passion for Italian cooking. I’ve fallen in love with how Amsterdam embraces diverse culinary traditions, and The Balanced Plate represents my commitment to sharing authentic Italian cooking while celebrating the incredible local ingredients available in the Netherlands.
From those early weekend workshops to now catering for companies & privates, and hosting dozens of events across the city, every catering event and workshop is an opportunity to create connections – between people, between cultures, and between the simple joy of good food shared together. Amsterdam gave me the courage to follow my culinary dreams, and I’m honored to give back to this vibrant food community.
Ready to Create Something Delicious Together?
Whether you’re planning a corporate event, celebrating a special occasion, or organizing a fun team-building experience, I’d love to create an authentic Italian experience for you.
Request catering quote: [email protected]
Book your workshop & check upcoming events here:
Follow our journey: @thebalancedplate_m