M Irvanie Rama Harahap
Google
The Spiegel Building in Semarang's Old Town is one of the best examples of late 19th-century European colonial architecture that remains relatively intact. Built in 1895, the building was founded by Herman Spiegel, an Austrian-Hungarian merchant, and reflects the influence of neoclassical architecture that was developing in the Dutch East Indies at the time. The building's façade is made of exposed red brick, reinforced with intricate carvings and arches characteristic of continental European architectural style. The tall windows with half-circular arches and strict symmetry reflect rational order, while the high ceilings and large openings provide natural ventilation that is well-suited to the tropical climate.
In the post-colonial era, the building was converted into a warehouse and fell into disrepair, but it was eventually restored and reopened as Spiegel Bar & Bistro on 8 June 2015.
One of the dishes I ordered was pizza. The pizza served is rich in cheese—a combination of around five types of cheese—creating a generous savoury flavour, paired with a touch of spicy honey (“hot honey”) that is perfectly sweet, offering a unique and appetising sensation. The essence of Spiegel’s pizza lies in its crispy dough, perfectly melted cheese, and a balanced combination of savoury and sweet flavours.
For drinks, I tried the Vienna Coffee at Spiegel Kota Lama Semarang, offering a refreshingly relaxed experience: espresso mixed with fresh milk and topped with soft tiramisu cream, creating a perfect balance of creamy texture and bitter-sweet flavour. I could adjust the milk or cream composition to my preference. The taste is smooth, with the espresso’s dominance still intact despite the sweet whipped cream—the cool and sweet effect makes this coffee perfect to enjoy in Semarang’s tropical weather.
One of the waiters serving us was named JEJE, a cheerful and smart young woman with extensive knowledge about the restaurant’s menu, able to provide recommendations that made our dinner memorable. This young woman deserves a well-deserved award.
Spiegel successfully blends historical values and colonial aesthetics into a modern dining experience. The restaurant is not just a place to eat but also a living museum that delights the eyes. Overall, Spiegel not only serves delicious cuisine but also offers a sense of history and atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.