Spiegel Building - Image 1
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Spiegel Building

4.6
·8k reviews·, Indonesia

Dine in a stunning Dutch colonial heritage building in Semarang, offering exquisite food and a captivating ambiance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon (5:30 PM)

Enjoy changing atmosphere & surroundings

CrowdMedium
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Spiegel Building - Image 1

Spiegel Building

Best Time

Late Afternoon (5:30 PM)

Enjoy changing atmosphere & surroundings

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dine in a stunning Dutch colonial heritage building in Semarang, offering exquisite food and a captivating ambiance.

4.6
(8k reviews)

"A pleasant dining spot to enjoy with family or for business, quite comfortable for casual conversations and lingering."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Reserve Your Table

Busy hours mean tables fill up fast. Book ahead to guarantee your spot and avoid waiting! :telephone_receiver:

✨ Dress Smart Casual

Respect the heritage building's vibe. While rules are flexible, smart casual is a safe bet. :blazer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Heritage Building Ambiance

Heritage Building Ambiance

Kota Lama, Semarang

Dine in a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial building, offering a unique historical atmosphere.

Exceptional Desserts

Exceptional Desserts

Dessert Menu

Don't miss the tiramisu and banoffee tart; they're frequently cited as standout, 'blown us away' treats.

Live Jazz Evenings

Live Jazz Evenings

Main Dining Area

Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience with live jazz music creating a beautiful backdrop.

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Planning Your Visit

Dress Code Etiquette

While Spiegel is in a heritage building, dress code rules can be surprisingly flexible. Some visitors note seeing people in t-shirts and shorts, despite prohibitions. It's best to err on the side of smart casual to respect the ambiance, but don't stress too much if you're not perfectly dressed.

Reservations Recommended

This popular spot in Semarang's Old Town can get busy, especially during peak hours. Making a reservation is a good idea to ensure you get a table and avoid disappointment, particularly if you're visiting on a weekend or for a special occasion.

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon (5:30 PM)
Why
Enjoy changing atmosphere & surroundings
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Live jazz and romantic ambiance
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Long exposure of the Spiegel Haus in Hamburg in the evening - modern architecture interacting with light and reflection. The foundation stone for the building was laid in May 2008 Langzeitbelichtung des Spiegel Hauses in Hamburg am Abend – moderne Architektur im Zusammenspiel mit Licht und Reflexion. Die Grundsteinlegung für das Gebäude fand im Mai 2008 statt #nikondach #hamburg #spiegelhamb...
carlsson.ffm
83 likes • 501 views

🎯 Reserve Your Table

Busy hours mean tables fill up fast. Book ahead to guarantee your spot and avoid waiting! :telephone_receiver:

✨ Dress Smart Casual

Respect the heritage building's vibe. While rules are flexible, smart casual is a safe bet. :blazer:

💻 Editing Challenge 2.0 is here! 💻 The first challenge was such a hit that we’re back for round two! This time, I’ve got a RAW file of the iconic Der Spiegel building in Hamburg waiting for your editing magic. 🎨🔥 Want to join the fun? Drop a comment with EDIT, and I’ll send you the download link. Let’s keep inspiring each other and creating something epic together! 🌟 ✨ Let’s make 2025 the year ...
mattjackson.photography
14 likes • 478 views
The architect was inspired by the Ikea sugar bowl for this building. 🍚 Der Architekt ließ sich für dieses Gebäude von der Zuckerdose von Ikea inspirieren. На цю будівлю архітектора надихнула цукорниця з Ікеї. 🍚 #rotterdam #depot #netherlands #travelling #mustvisit #neverstopexploring #mirror #spiegel #spiegelselfie #architecturedesign #archtecturelovers #architecturephoto #rotterdam_info
gap__art
15 likes • 149 views

🎶 Catch the Live Jazz

Check their schedule for live music nights; it adds a fantastic layer to the dining experience. :musical_note:

♿️ Wheelchair Accessible

Staff are helpful with accessibility needs, including assisting with entrance. :wheelchair:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Reserve Your Table

Busy hours mean tables fill up fast. Book ahead to guarantee your spot and avoid waiting! :telephone_receiver:

✨ Dress Smart Casual

Respect the heritage building's vibe. While rules are flexible, smart casual is a safe bet. :blazer:

🎶 Catch the Live Jazz

Check their schedule for live music nights; it adds a fantastic layer to the dining experience. :musical_note:

♿️ Wheelchair Accessible

Staff are helpful with accessibility needs, including assisting with entrance. :wheelchair:

🍰 Save Room for Dessert

The tiramisu and banoffee tart are highly praised and a must-try! :ice_cream:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Spiegel Building is highly praised for its unique ambiance within a historic Dutch colonial building in Semarang's Kota Lama. Diners rave about the exceptional food quality, particularly the desserts, and the charming atmosphere, often enhanced by live jazz music. While some find it a bit pricey and service can occasionally be slow during peak times, the overall experience is considered well worth it.

"A pleasant dining spot to enjoy with family or for business. Quite comfortable for casual conversations and lingering, enjoying the atmosphere and F&B. The location in Kota Lama, the Dutch heritage building, and the one and only Spiegel in Indonesia are all strong points for this place.

The food we tasted was all delicious: beef carpaccio, tagliatelle a manzo, capellini burro e pepe, and smoked veal tongue. And for desserts: tiramisu and banoffee tart. Our favorite are capellini and tiramisu.

During reservations and upon arrival, we were reminded of the recommended and prohibited dress code. We dressed accordingly out of respect for the place. However, this rule seems flexible in practice, as right across from us was a family group, some were wearing t-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops. All prohibited items. Yet, they were allowed to enter and enjoy the menu. It did somewhat spoil the ambiance, though it didn't detract from the restaurant's positive qualities.

Definitely will recommend this place to others and come back while in Semarang."

Anie Rahmi

"I had a quick trip to Semarang and had heard about Spiegel. I came for dinner alone and got sat at one of the lounge tables. There was a live jazz band playing that night which I enjoyed, the singers & band provided a beautiful backdrop for the place. The food was amazing, I ordered the braised veal ossobuco with saffron risotto and a cocktail I can’t remember the name of. The experience was great. Only comment would be that it took a while to get anyone’s attention but once they took my order it was much better"

Katidja Zaidi

"I recommend you to come around 5.30pm so you can enjoy the atmosphere's differences and its surrounding better. The dishes were high quality like always and satisfying choice of drinks even though you don't drink alcohol. This time I came with my mom on wheelchair. And we had an excellent service and help from the staff to lift her through the entrance."

monica “Carrissa” indrasari

What People Like

Historic building ambiance
Delicious food & desserts
Live jazz music

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Slow service at times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Spiegel Building is located in the heart of Semarang's Kota Lama (Old Town). You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services (like Gojek or Grab), or by private car. Parking might be limited in the immediate vicinity due to the historic area, so factor that in.

Yes, it's quite prominent within the Kota Lama area, a well-known heritage district. Look for the distinctive Dutch colonial architecture. It's a popular landmark, so asking locals for directions to Kota Lama will easily lead you there.

Walking is the best way to explore Kota Lama. The area is relatively compact and best appreciated on foot. You can wander through the historic streets, admire the architecture, and discover other charming spots before or after your meal at Spiegel.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need to buy tickets to enter Spiegel Building as it functions as a restaurant. Entry is free, and you pay for the food and drinks you consume.

Spiegel Building is typically open for dining throughout the day and into the evening. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most current operating hours, as they can vary.

There is a recommended dress code, often described as smart casual, to respect the heritage ambiance. While some visitors have noted flexibility, it's advisable to dress neatly. Avoid overly casual attire like t-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops if possible.

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for evenings and weekends, as the restaurant is very popular. You can usually book by calling them directly or through their social media channels.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Spiegel Building offers a diverse menu featuring both Western and Indonesian dishes. Popular choices include pizzas, roasted chicken, burgers, pasta, and high-quality steaks, alongside local Semarang specialties like Nasi Ayam.

While the menu has a strong focus on meat and poultry, they often have pasta dishes and salads that can be adapted. It's best to inquire with the staff about specific vegetarian or vegan options available during your visit.

Many visitors rave about the desserts, particularly the tiramisu and banoffee tart. For main courses, the Capellini a manzo, braised veal ossobuco with saffron risotto, and beef carpaccio are frequently praised.

Compared to the general cost of living in Semarang, Spiegel can be considered a bit pricey. However, most visitors find the quality of food, ambiance, and overall experience to be well worth the cost for a special meal.

Yes, Spiegel Building offers a satisfying choice of drinks, including non-alcoholic options, making it suitable for those who don't consume alcohol.

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The historic Dutch colonial architecture, combined with the interior design and evening lighting, makes Spiegel Building a very photogenic spot. The reflections in the building's facade can also be stunning, especially at night.

For exterior shots, late afternoon offers beautiful light on the heritage building. For interior ambiance and reflections, evenings are ideal, especially when the lights are on and live music might be playing. Long exposure shots at night can capture the building's modern interaction with light.Instagram

The main dining area with its charming decor and the exterior facade are prime spots. Look for interesting architectural details and reflections. Some visitors enjoy taking 'spiegel selfies' using the reflective surfaces of modern architecture.Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to be discreet with tripods in dining establishments to avoid inconveniencing other guests. Check with the management if you plan on extensive professional photography.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Spiegel Building is a great option for families looking for a pleasant dining experience in a unique setting. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from Western favorites like pizza and burgers to local Indonesian options, ensuring picky eaters will find something they like.Reddit The spaciousness of the heritage building can also make it more comfortable for families with children. While there's a recommended dress code, families have been observed dining in more casual attire, suggesting a relaxed approach in practice.Reddit

For those with mobility concerns, the staff are known to be very helpful, assisting with accessibility needs like navigating the entrance with a wheelchair.Reddit This attentiveness extends to ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. The ambiance, especially with live music on some evenings, can add an enjoyable element for older children and teenagers, though very young children might be more suited to earlier dining hours.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Spiegel Building is a dream location for photographers. Its unique architecture, a blend of historic Dutch colonial style and modern design elements, offers endless visual possibilities.TikTok The building's reflective surfaces are particularly striking, especially at night when illuminated, creating stunning 'spiegel selfies' and long exposure shots.TikTokInstagram

For the best shots, consider visiting during the late afternoon to capture the warm light on the heritage facade, or in the evening to photograph the building's glow and any reflections. The interior, with its charming decor and ambiance, also provides excellent opportunities for capturing the dining experience. While tripods might be best used discreetly, the natural light and architectural features make it a rewarding spot for both amateur and professional photographers.

🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Spiegel Building is a must-visit in Semarang. Located in the well-preserved Kota Lama (Old Town), the building itself is a testament to adaptive reuse, breathing new life into a historic Dutch colonial structure.TikTok The foundation stone was laid in 2008, signifying its modern transformation while respecting its past.TikTok

Architecturally, the building is noted for its unique design inspirations, with some sources humorously pointing to an Ikea sugar bowl as a muse.Instagram This blend of historical context and contemporary design creates a visually captivating experience. Exploring the surrounding Kota Lama area before or after your visit will further immerse you in the rich colonial past of Semarang.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiegel Building: A Blend of History and Modernity

The Spiegel Building in Semarang is a remarkable example of adaptive reuse, seamlessly blending historical architecture with contemporary dining. Situated in the heart of Kota Lama, the city's Dutch heritage district, the building itself is a significant draw. Its foundation stone was laid in May 2008, marking a new chapter for this historic site.TikTok The design is noted for its unique architectural inspirations, with one anecdote suggesting an architect was inspired by an Ikea sugar bowl.Instagram This fusion creates a unique atmosphere that appeals to both history buffs and those seeking a modern, stylish dining experience.

The interior often features a charming ambiance, enhanced by thoughtful lighting and decor. During evenings, the building can become quite lively, especially when featuring live jazz music, which provides a beautiful backdrop for diners.Reddit Visitors often comment on the 'old and colonial vibes' that are perfectly complemented by the quality of the food and service. The building's presence in the historic Kota Lama area adds another layer of appeal, making it a destination within a destination.

For photographers, the Spiegel Building offers a wealth of opportunities. The interplay of light and reflection, especially in the evening, is a key feature, making long exposure shots particularly striking.TikTok The unique architectural elements and the historic setting provide diverse backdrops for capturing memorable images. Whether you're interested in the history, the culinary experience, or the visual aesthetics, the Spiegel Building offers a rich and engaging visit.

Culinary Delights at Spiegel

Spiegel Building is celebrated for its diverse and high-quality menu, catering to a range of palates. The restaurant offers a fusion of Western and Indonesian cuisine, ensuring there's something for everyone. Popular Western choices include pizzas, roasted chicken, burgers, and various pasta dishes like tagliatelle a manzo and capellini burro e pepe. For those seeking local flavors, dishes like Nasi Ayam are also available, offering a taste of Semarang's legendary food.Reddit

The dessert menu is a particular highlight, with the tiramisu and banoffee tart frequently receiving rave reviews and being described as 'blown us away'.Reddit+1 Beyond the sweets, appetizers like beef carpaccio and smoked veal tongue are also highly recommended. The drink selection is comprehensive, including a good range of non-alcoholic options for those who prefer not to drink alcohol.Reddit While some find the prices to be on the higher side for Semarang, the consensus is that the quality of the food, the generous portions, and the overall dining experience justify the cost.

Service at Spiegel is generally praised, with staff noted as being super friendly and helpful, even assisting guests with mobility issues like wheelchairs.Reddit However, some visitors have mentioned that it can take a while to get a server's attention during busy periods.Reddit Despite this, the overall dining experience is consistently described as pleasant and satisfying, making it a recommended spot for both casual family meals and more formal business gatherings.

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