Why Fifteen?

In 2003, Sarriel Taus and Coen Alewijnse read an article on Jamie Oliver's Fifteen restaurant in London. Their enthusiasm for the whole concept quickly led to plans for a Dutch Fifteen.
A first tentative introduction to the famous British 'Naked Chef' Jamie Oliver followed and this led to him giving his approval to set up a Fifteen restaurant in Amsterdam. On December 14, 2004 Fifteen Amsterdam opened its doors. The final highlight came when Jamie Oliver committed his name to the restaurant by putting his signature on the wall in huge letters.

Founder and managing director Fifteen Amsterdam, Sarriel Taus:
"Economic crises and rising unemployment hit young people first. It is a great shame that this group, that forms such an important part of our society, should have such a bleak future."

Former mayor of the city of Amsterdam, Job Cohen:
"The Amsterdam Fifteen students have  achieved great things. Fifteen is a good project for Amsterdam."