Amsterdam’s dining scene is a melting pot of flavors, cultures, and creativity. From Michelin-starred kitchens in historic buildings to cozy, canalside eateries, the city’s restaurants offer something for every taste and style. Whether you’re looking for an eco-conscious spot with farm-to-table ingredients, a sleek fusion restaurant with international influences, or an intimate local gem, Amsterdam has it all. Here’s our pick of the best restaurants in Amsterdam that promise not just a meal, but a memorable experience. Dive in and discover where to eat in one of Europe’s most vibrant culinary capitals.
Restaurant De Kas
Address: Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE Amsterdam
Step into a culinary oasis at Restaurant De Kas, where the food is as fresh as the setting. Located in a converted greenhouse surrounded by lush gardens, De Kas brings the farm-to-table concept to life, serving dishes made from ingredients harvested on-site. The airy, light-filled dining room, with its floor-to-ceiling glass walls, feels like dining in nature’s lap. De Kas’ menu is seasonal and vegetable-forward, with offerings like roasted beetroot with labneh and herbaceous risottos that change daily. The crowd here ranges from eco-conscious locals to visiting foodies eager to savor sustainability at its finest. De Kas offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle, allowing diners to connect with the land in every bite.
Kaagman & Kortekaas
Address: Sint Nicolaasstraat 43, 1012 NJ Amsterdam
Hidden in a quiet alley not far from Dam Square, this Amsterdam restaurant exudes the charm of an old-world French bistro with a twist. This intimate restaurant, beloved by locals, brings a touch of Parisian sophistication to Amsterdam’s dining scene. The menu focuses on French-inspired dishes, with highlights like duck confit and a standout seafood platter. Diners are treated to a warm, cozy ambiance with soft lighting and rustic decor, and the open kitchen offers a front-row seat to the culinary action. Ideal for a romantic evening or a special celebration, Kaagman & Kortekaas attracts a discerning crowd looking for both comfort and class in the Dutch capital.
Troef
Address: Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 109, 1017 PX Amsterdam
For a taste of Amsterdam’s playful, creative side, Troef is a must-visit. Located in the hip De Pijp district, Troef combines casual vibes with bold flavors in a setting that feels like a friend’s trendy loft. The menu is all about sharing, with inventive small plates that fuse Dutch and international flavors. Try the smoked mackerel with fermented vegetables or the pulled pork bao buns—each dish a testament to Troef’s experimental spirit. The crowd here is young, fun-loving, and appreciative of the casual ambiance and affordable prices. If you’re looking for a lively spot to kick back with friends, Troef is the place.
Restaurant Gitane
Address: Spaarndammerstraat 6, 1013 SV Amsterdam
Channeling the eclectic vibes of a Mediterranean bazaar, Restaurant Gitane offers a chic, bohemian atmosphere in the heart of Jordaan. With Moroccan tiles, vintage lamps, and an earthy color palette, the decor alone is worth a visit. The menu leans into Mediterranean flavors with a North African twist, featuring dishes like lamb tagine with apricots and spiced couscous. The crowd is an eclectic mix of locals and travelers, drawn by Gitane’s unique ambiance and flavorful food. Perfect for an intimate dinner or a lively gathering with good food, this spot serves up a dining experience that feels like a little escape from Amsterdam.
Restaurant Flore
Address: Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14, 1012 CP Amsterdam
Nestled in the prestigious Hotel de l'Europe, Restaurant Flore combines luxury with local flavor, presenting a menu that celebrates Dutch ingredients in sophisticated ways. With a great view of the Amstel River, the setting is as elegant as the cuisine. Flore is known for its tasting menus, where dishes like smoked eel with horseradish and truffle-infused cheese earned the restaurant its Michelin star. The interior is refined, with dark wood accents and an intimate feel that attracts an upscale crowd. For a special night out in Amsterdam, Flore delivers an experience that’s both luxurious and rooted in Dutch culinary tradition. Reservations are highly recommended.
Venus & Adonis
Address: Prinsengracht 274, 1016 HH Amsterdam
Right along the canal, Venus & Adonis is one of the best places where you’ll find comfort food done right in an intimate, romantic setting. Specializing in meat dishes, this restaurant is famous for its tender ribs and juicy steaks. The decor is warm and inviting, with dim lighting and rich wooden furniture that gives the space a cozy feel. You’ll often find couples here on date nights and groups celebrating special occasions. The bone marrow starter is a must-try for adventurous eaters, and the extensive wine list makes it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Sichuan Food
Address: Kerkstraat 58, 1017 GM Amsterdam
If you’re craving a spicy kick, head to Sichuan Food, where authentic Chinese flavors come alive. Specializing in Sichuan cuisine, this spot delivers the full spectrum of hot and numbing flavors, with dishes like spicy mapo tofu and sizzling hot pot. The minimalist decor puts the focus firmly on the food, and the crowd is a mix of locals and spice lovers from afar. With each bite, you’ll feel transported to the bustling streets of Sichuan—this is authentic Chinese food at its best, right in the heart of Amsterdam. This restaurant isn't open all day, however, preferring to serve dinner from 5pm to 10pm.
Café-Restaurant De Plantage
Address: Plantage Kerklaan 36, 1018 CZ Amsterdam
Café-Restaurant De Plantage offers a serene dining experience in a grand, glass-walled conservatory that feels like stepping into a botanical garden. Located next to Artis Zoo, it’s a stunning space with high ceilings, lush greenery, and an open, airy feel, as well as a large terrace surrounded by greenery. The menu is a mix of European flavors with a Dutch twist, featuring standout dishes like veal schnitzel and creamy burrata. The brunch scene here is particularly popular, with a crowd that includes families, couples, and solo diners seeking a relaxed weekend vibe. De Plantage is the kind of place where time slows down, letting you savor both the food and the surroundings.
Wilde Zwijnen
Address: Javaplein 23, 1095 CJ Amsterdam
In the cool Indische Buurt neighborhood, Wilde Zwijnen is a great place to savor rustic Dutch flavors. This cozy bistro emphasizes local ingredients and seasonal dishes, creating a menu that’s both comforting and inventive. From hearty stews to light, vegetable-focused plates, Wilde Zwijnen has something for everyone. The decor is warm and unpretentious, with wood-paneled walls and dim lighting that make it feel like a countryside inn. The crowd is mostly locals who appreciate a good farm-to-table meal without the fuss, making Wilde Zwijnen a perfect spot to experience Dutch cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Restaurant Breda
Address: Singel 210, 1016 AB Amsterdam
Restaurant Breda is the epitome of Dutch fine dining, offering a creative tasting menu that highlights the best of local ingredients. Situated along the scenic Singel canal, Breda has a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, with simple decor that lets the food shine. Dishes are artfully presented and range from succulent meats to fresh seafood, all paired with carefully selected wines. The crowd here is sophisticated but unpretentious, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a true taste of Amsterdam’s culinary innovation. For an unforgettable meal in a stunning location, Breda is hard to beat.
BAK Restaurant
Address: Van Diemenstraat 408, 1013 CR Amsterdam
For those in search of a unique dining experience overlooking the IJ River, BAK Restaurant is a must-visit. Housed in a former warehouse in the Houthavens area, BAK has an industrial-chic vibe with exposed brick walls and large windows offering spectacular water views. Known for its commitment to sustainability, BAK sources ingredients from local farmers and focuses on seasonal dishes that let the produce shine. The menu is constantly evolving, but you can expect creative combinations like pickled vegetables with smoked fish or venison with earthy root vegetables. The crowd here is a mix of hip Amsterdam locals and adventurous diners, all eager to taste what’s new and exciting in the city’s food scene.
Bird Thais Restaurant
Address: Zeedijk 72, 1012 BA Amsterdam
If you’re craving authentic Thai food in the heart of Amsterdam, look no further than Bird Thai Restaurant. Nestled on the notorious Red Light District, this lively eatery is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Known for its no-frills decor and big flavors, Bird serves up classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and green curry with just the right amount of spice. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is always buzzing, with tables packed and a lively crowd spilling out onto the street. Perfect for a casual, flavor-packed meal, Bird Thai brings the vibrant energy of Bangkok to Amsterdam.
ARCA Amsterdam
Address: Martelaarsgracht 5, 1012 TN Amsterdam
For an evening of sophisticated fusion cuisine, head to ARCA Amsterdam, where Portuguese and Asian flavors collide in an innovative menu crafted by acclaimed chef Henrique Sá Pessoa. Located near Central Station, ARCA’s sleek, minimalist interior sets the stage for dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Expect unique creations like cod tempura with chili mayo and black truffle bao buns, which bring a fresh twist to traditional Portuguese dishes. The clientele is chic and cosmopolitan, creating an upscale but relaxed vibe that’s perfect for a special night out. With a well-curated wine and cocktail list to match, ARCA promises a dining experience that’s both stylish and adventurous.
Oedipus Brewing
Address: Gedempt Hamerkanaal 85, 1021 KP Amsterdam
Beer lovers, rejoice! Oedipus Brewing is more than just a brewery—it’s a vibrant space where locals come to enjoy inventive craft brews and delicious food in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Located in Amsterdam Noord, Oedipus has become a favorite for its colorful decor, friendly vibe, and unique brews like the tropical “Mannenliefde” saison or the punchy “Mama” pale ale. The food menu features hearty dishes designed to pair perfectly with beer, from juicy burgers to loaded fries. Expect a lively crowd of Amsterdam locals and tourists soaking up the brewery’s eclectic charm and lively atmosphere.
EURO Pizza
Address: Kamperfoelieweg 155, 1032 HM Amsterdam
Pizza meets creativity at EURO Pizza, a trendy spot in Amsterdam Noord that has reinvented the classic slice with an artsy twist. Located in an industrial setting near the IJ River, EURO Pizza has a hip vibe with exposed beams, neon lights, and an open kitchen where you can watch the pizzaiolos in action. The menu is suitable for any price range, and includes inventive pies topped with ingredients like truffle, burrata, and even smoked salmon. The crowd here is young, stylish, and hungry for something different, making EURO Pizza a hot spot for a casual yet memorable dining experience.
Café Restaurant Stork
Address: Gedempt Hamerkanaal 201, 1021 KP Amsterdam
Set along the waterfront in Amsterdam Noord and walking distance from Centraal Station, Café Restaurant Stork is a seafood lover’s paradise. Known for its fresh fish and shellfish, Stork serves up dishes like whole grilled lobster, oysters, and seafood platters that are perfect for sharing. The setting is industrial yet cozy, with an expansive terrace overlooking the IJ River—ideal for a sunny afternoon with friends. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, attracting a mix of locals and visitors who come to enjoy high-quality seafood in a stunning location. If you’re looking for a seafood feast with a view, Stork is the place to be.
The Pantry
Address: Leidsekruisstraat 21, 1017 RE Amsterdam
For a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting, The Pantry is a go-to spot. Located near Leidseplein, this charming restaurant serves up classic Dutch dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage), bitterballen, and herring. The decor is rustic and warm, with Dutch artwork and a homey feel that makes you feel like a local. The Pantry is popular with tourists looking for an authentic experience as well as locals craving comfort food, making it a great choice for those wanting to dive into Dutch culinary culture.
Bar Centraal
Address: Ten Katestraat 16, 1053 CE Amsterdam
Bar Centraal is where wine bar meets laid-back bistro, offering natural wines, a relaxed atmosphere, and a rotating menu of small plates. Located in Amsterdam West, this trendy spot is known for its expertly curated wine list and its seasonal, plant-forward dishes. From roasted cauliflower with tahini to a silky burrata with seasonal vegetables, each dish is crafted to complement the wine selection. The crowd is hip and laid-back, creating an effortlessly cool vibe that makes Bar Centraal a popular choice for wine lovers and foodies alike.
Haring & Zo
Address: Multiple locations across Amsterdam
For an iconic Amsterdam experience, stop by Haring & Zo to try the city’s most famous street food: herring. Known for their traditional herring sandwiches, Haring & Zo is a beloved local chain where you can grab a quick bite and enjoy a taste of Dutch culinary heritage. The herring is fresh, flavorful, and typically served with pickles and onions. You’ll find locals popping in for a snack as well as curious tourists looking to try something authentic. It’s fast, delicious, and undeniably Amsterdam.
Café Arendsnest
Address: Herengracht 90, 1015 BS Amsterdam
Café Arendsnest is a beer lover’s dream, boasting over 100 different Dutch craft beers on tap and in bottles. Located along one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque canals, the Herengracht Canal, this cozy pub has a warm, rustic interior with wood paneling and a friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through the extensive beer list. It also boasts one of the most popular canal-side terraces in the city!
From dark stouts to hoppy IPAs, every beer here is brewed in the Netherlands, making it a great spot to sample the local craft scene. With its welcoming atmosphere and extensive selection, Café ‘t Arendsnest draws both locals and tourists looking for an authentic Dutch pub experience.