Destination
Things to see and do in Amsterdam : Where to eat ?
10 addresses
Breitner
Amstel 212 Amsterdam 1017 AH • +31 20 627 7879Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Bathed in light and good favor, Breitner is a serious restaurant that prefers its clientèle to enjoy themselves rather than defer to its quality. In fact, you'll often find groups of friends frequenting the place, enjoying leisurely meals, and delighting in a menu that's sometimes a bit experimental but always good. Breitner also appeals to business professionals who appreciate the fact that they can meet amid hip surroundings and dine without a contingent of overly attentive servers. Great food and ambiance, no matter your purpose.
Cafe de Kroon
Rembrandtplein 17 First Floor, Amsterdam 1017 CT • +31 20 625 2011Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. De Kroon's gracious interior, ornamented with French furniture and refined details, fits accordingly with the cafe's name, which means "crown." The upscale place offers lunch and dinner options and boasts a wonderful enclosed terrace that affords views of the square. Desserts and coffees satisfy those who simply want to soak in the ambience with a light repast. The cafe is the latest incarnation of the original De Kroon, which first threw open its doors in 1898 but closed at the beginning of the 1950s after losing its largely Jewish clientele during World War Two.
Blauw aan de Wal
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 99 Amsterdam 1012 DD • +31 20 330 2257Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Down an alley in the Red Light District lies this Mediterranean restaurant, a two-level place with both bar and dining room. The clean-lined interior ensures that food, more than decor, receives the attention it's due. Attentive service, an accomplished kitchen, and an outdoor terrace appeal to those who stop in for the first time and are ready proof for regulars that Blauw aan de Wal is always ideal for a meal that's large on quiet, quality and charm. Reserve in advance.
Café de Jaren
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20-22 Amsterdam 1012 CP • +31 20 625 5771Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Contemporary in style and boasting a wonderful location on the Amstel River, this large, popular café invites leisurely dining. Amid its spacious environs, patrons nurse cups of coffee, bask in the warmth of the waterside terrace, and sample lasagne, salads, soups, sandwiches, pastas, snack foods and desserts. A favorite of creative types, the café also attracts folks who want to relax with a glass of wine or browse the selection of available periodicals. There's also a restaurant with a huge salad bar and terrace upstairs. Great for day or evening.
Bird
Zeedijk 72-74 Amsterdam 1012 BA • +31 20 620 1442Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. If you get a little peckish after wandering through the Red Light District and are in search of some spicy food in the city's Chinatown district, this authentic Thai restaurant offers some of the best in town and is renowned for huge portions at very affordable prices. As a result, there may be a queue here but grab a Singha beer at the bar and wait, because it won't be long before you find yourself seated at a wooden bench specially imported from Thailand. The Thai staff are friendly and attentive to a fault. And if you're in a hurry, pop over to their typically Thai snackbar opposite, at No 77.
Beddingtons
Utrechtsedwarsstraat 141 Amsterdam 1017 WE • +31 20 620 7393Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Owned and operated by British chef Jean Beddington a favourite amongst local foodies this small yet stylish establishment draws scores of discerning diners to watch her at work from the open kitchen. The regularly changing menus are creative and predominantly European imbued with Asian, with the occasional hint of her British heritage shining through. And her desserts are simply Jean-ius. The service here is also particularly pleasant, warm and efficient and, rather amazingly, the top-notch cusine won't burn a hole in your pocket.
De Bakkerswinkel
Warmoestraat 69 Amsterdam 1012 HX • +31 20 489 8000Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Mention of this delightful establishment is enough to make mouths water, thanks to its repertoire of incredible baked goods. Fresh scones (served with clotted cream), wonderful pain au chocolat, and big, crusty loaves of bread tempt with their aromas alone, as do fragrant coffees and teas. Other options throughout the day include quiche, soups, tarts, light sandwiches, breakfast fare, salads and the like. Service is attentive and helpful, and everything you order is certain to be fresh and well-prepared. Additional locations can be found at Roelofhartstraat 68 (+31 20 662 3594) and on the grounds of the Westergasfabriek at Regulateurshuis 1 (+31 20 688 0632).
Proeflokaal Janvier
Amstelveld 12 Amsterdam 1017 JD • +31 20 626 1199Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Upmarket yet unpretentious, this 'tasting' restaurant is one of Amsterdam's best kept secrets and not just for its delightful shaded terrace or location within an historic 17th-century wooden church, the Amstelkerk. The creative chef works wonders creating modern French dishes with a delightful twist, that arrive on your plates resembling works of art. A great spot for lunch or dinner when you can continue drinking in the lounge area until late at night. Note that on Sunday there's a fixed menu only and no à la carte possibilities.
Dynasty
Reguliersdwarsstraat 30 Amsterdam 1017 BM • +31 20 626 8400Description:
CENTRAL CANAL RING. Although the restaurant's themed interior features vibrant colors and paper umbrellas, its beautiful gardens are a constant draw for summertime diners. A great, central location also adds to Dynasty's appeal. The largely Chinese menu also features Thai, Vietnamese, Malay and Filipino fare. Fresh vegetables are at a premium, paired with lamb, beef, duck, lobster and seafood. Frequently busy, the restaurant is one of Amsterdam's most popular Asian venues, and fixed price menus are available if decision-making comes hard to you.
Supperclub
Jonge Roelensteeg 21 Amsterdam 1012 PL • +31 20 344 6400Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This unusual restaurant, which also functions as a nightclub, is something of a novelty. Its menu changes weekly, depending on the chef's interests, and the interior also shifts to match the cuisine. Five-course menus are set, and a la carte options aren't available. Guests many of whom work in art, fashion, music and the like lounge about on beds (as is their wont) while they partake of the innovative cuisine. The experience also features live entertainment and DJs (Along with sister clubs in Rome and San Francisco, they are behind the successful Supperclub Lounge CDs.) Perfect for those who crave something a bit out of the ordinary.
Best of the City
Blauw aan de Wal
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 99 Amsterdam 1012 DD • +31 20 330 2257Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Down an alley in the Red Light District lies this Mediterranean restaurant, a two-level place with both bar and dining room. The clean-lined interior ensures that food, more than decor, receives the attention it's due. Attentive service, an accomplished kitchen, and an outdoor terrace appeal to those who stop in for the first time and are ready proof for regulars that Blauw aan de Wal is always ideal for a meal that's large on quiet, quality and charm. Reserve in advance.
Bird
Zeedijk 72-74 Amsterdam 1012 BA • +31 20 620 1442Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. If you get a little peckish after wandering through the Red Light District and are in search of some spicy food in the city's Chinatown district, this authentic Thai restaurant offers some of the best in town and is renowned for huge portions at very affordable prices. As a result, there may be a queue here but grab a Singha beer at the bar and wait, because it won't be long before you find yourself seated at a wooden bench specially imported from Thailand. The Thai staff are friendly and attentive to a fault. And if you're in a hurry, pop over to their typically Thai snackbar opposite, at No 77.
Proeflokaal Janvier
Amstelveld 12 Amsterdam 1017 JD • +31 20 626 1199Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Upmarket yet unpretentious, this 'tasting' restaurant is one of Amsterdam's best kept secrets and not just for its delightful shaded terrace or location within an historic 17th-century wooden church, the Amstelkerk. The creative chef works wonders creating modern French dishes with a delightful twist, that arrive on your plates resembling works of art. A great spot for lunch or dinner when you can continue drinking in the lounge area until late at night. Note that on Sunday there's a fixed menu only and no à la carte possibilities.
Supperclub
Jonge Roelensteeg 21 Amsterdam 1012 PL • +31 20 344 6400Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This unusual restaurant, which also functions as a nightclub, is something of a novelty. Its menu changes weekly, depending on the chef's interests, and the interior also shifts to match the cuisine. Five-course menus are set, and a la carte options aren't available. Guests many of whom work in art, fashion, music and the like lounge about on beds (as is their wont) while they partake of the innovative cuisine. The experience also features live entertainment and DJs (Along with sister clubs in Rome and San Francisco, they are behind the successful Supperclub Lounge CDs.) Perfect for those who crave something a bit out of the ordinary.
Suite
Sint Nicolaasstraat 43 Amsterdam 1012 NJ • +31 20 779 8314Description:
Fashionistas, creatives and ad agency professionals are regular patrons at this gorgeous sprawling location on a quiet alley near Dam Square. Various areas an Arabian-style lounge, retro 1970s living-room, cocktail bar, basement club, and a stylish restaurant converge to provide a wealth of nighttime experiences. Whilst fish-phobic vegetarians may struggle slightly, carnivores will devour succulent dishes such as rack of piglet with a jacket potato, caponata and a red wine sauce from the Mediterranean-infused French menu.
Bazar
Albert Cuypstraat 182 Amsterdam 1073 BL • +31 20 675 0544Description:
DE PIJP. Spacious, airy and high-ceilinged, Bazar occupies a former church building whose interior has been given a stunning 'mosque makeover.' Comfortable seating is spread over two floors; try and snag a table on the upper balcony level which looks down onto the bar in the center. The menu has a fantastic choice of North African, Iranian and Turkish food whether you pop in for an Algerian pancake with honey for breakfast, grilled chicken wings with a spicy harissa suace, fried potatoes and salad for lunch, or 'Dolmé' for dinner (roasted sweet pepper, aubergine and oxheart cabbage stuffed with minced lamb, rice with tomato salad, 'haydari' and fried potatoes). The food here is simply fantastic and the daily chef specials well worth partaking. Vegetarians will delight in its menu. It's enormously popular so definitely reserve ahead for dinner. During the day, its location halfway up the Albert Cuyp Market also makes it an ideal pitstop for rejuvenating yourself with some mint tea and baklava.
De Bolhoed
Prinsengracht 60-62 Amsterdam 1015 DX • +31 20 626 1803Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. Vegetarians and vegans will revel in this restaurant's creative food, and novices to meatless dining will be surprised at the range and quality of the various dishes. The charm of the place is evident in its cozy interior, slightly bohemian ambiance, and outdoor, canalside terrace. Soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche are standard fare, and special menus are also available. And should you doubt, rest assured that De Bolhoed offers desserts, alcoholic beverages, and even alternative versions of coffee and tea. Kitchen closes at 10pm. FYI: The name of this one-time hat shop means 'bowler' (as in hat).
Ciel Bleu
Ferdinand Bolstraat 333 Hotel Okura, Amsterdam 1072 LH • +31 20 678 7450Description:
FURTHER AFIELD. 'Haute cusine' doesn't come much higher than this, and not just because of its location on the 23rd floor of Hotel Okura, but also for its two Michelin stars (the only restaurant in Amsterdam to have such an accolade). Delights on the menu which changes four times a year include such mouthwatering delights as marbré of foie gras and stewed veal cheek with chutney of Cévennes onions, and vanilla and sweetbreads lacquered with Pedro Ximénez sherry. And that's just for starters. With choice wines complementing the dishes perfectly, exceptional service, a stylish locale and panoramic views across the city, there's no more better place to be when the sun goes down. Hungry for more? Then book the chef's table adjoining the kitchen (for six to ten people) and watch the masters at work.
De Kas
Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3 Frankendael Park, Amsterdam 1097 DE • +31 20 462 4562Description:
FURTHER AFIELD. Fashioned from a circa-1926 greenhouse, this delightful establishment promises airy, romantic dining. Surrounded by its own gardens, De Kas grows many of its ingredients just beyond its doorstep. Supplemented by local meats and seafood, the organic menu is a daily, prix-fixe event consisting of several appetizers, an entrée, and a sweet. Lunch is two courses, and chef's table dinners can be arranged for folks who want a first-hand look at the kitchen's workings. Patio dining is sublime during warm-weather months.
Pont 13
Stavangerweg 891 Amsterdam 1013 AX • +31 20 770 2722Description:
FURTHER AFIELD. Although it's a little out of the center of town (to the west of Centraal Station), this unique restaurant is well worth the extra effort for both the food and its unique location in an old ferry dating from 1927 which ran back and forth across the harbor. Beautifully renovated, with wooden floors and an industrial ambience, diners can enjoy sublime French cuisine and fine wines within this spacious boat or on its outdoor terrace in summer with views across the harbor.
Asian
Breitner
Amstel 212 Amsterdam 1017 AH • +31 20 627 7879Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Bathed in light and good favor, Breitner is a serious restaurant that prefers its clientèle to enjoy themselves rather than defer to its quality. In fact, you'll often find groups of friends frequenting the place, enjoying leisurely meals, and delighting in a menu that's sometimes a bit experimental but always good. Breitner also appeals to business professionals who appreciate the fact that they can meet amid hip surroundings and dine without a contingent of overly attentive servers. Great food and ambiance, no matter your purpose.
Bird
Zeedijk 72-74 Amsterdam 1012 BA • +31 20 620 1442Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. If you get a little peckish after wandering through the Red Light District and are in search of some spicy food in the city's Chinatown district, this authentic Thai restaurant offers some of the best in town and is renowned for huge portions at very affordable prices. As a result, there may be a queue here but grab a Singha beer at the bar and wait, because it won't be long before you find yourself seated at a wooden bench specially imported from Thailand. The Thai staff are friendly and attentive to a fault. And if you're in a hurry, pop over to their typically Thai snackbar opposite, at No 77.
Beddingtons
Utrechtsedwarsstraat 141 Amsterdam 1017 WE • +31 20 620 7393Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Owned and operated by British chef Jean Beddington a favourite amongst local foodies this small yet stylish establishment draws scores of discerning diners to watch her at work from the open kitchen. The regularly changing menus are creative and predominantly European imbued with Asian, with the occasional hint of her British heritage shining through. And her desserts are simply Jean-ius. The service here is also particularly pleasant, warm and efficient and, rather amazingly, the top-notch cusine won't burn a hole in your pocket.
Dynasty
Reguliersdwarsstraat 30 Amsterdam 1017 BM • +31 20 626 8400Description:
CENTRAL CANAL RING. Although the restaurant's themed interior features vibrant colors and paper umbrellas, its beautiful gardens are a constant draw for summertime diners. A great, central location also adds to Dynasty's appeal. The largely Chinese menu also features Thai, Vietnamese, Malay and Filipino fare. Fresh vegetables are at a premium, paired with lamb, beef, duck, lobster and seafood. Frequently busy, the restaurant is one of Amsterdam's most popular Asian venues, and fixed price menus are available if decision-making comes hard to you.
Kantjil en de Tijger
Spuistraat 291-293 Amsterdam 1012 VS • +31 20 620 0994Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Authentic Indonesian cuisine, with its sublime flavors and exotic quality, has folks flocking to this popular place. The restaurant's modern interior invites patrons to ease back and enjoy a meal of savory fare, served by a staff of mostly students who don't mind tutoring novice diners. A la carte dishes can be had, as can satays, but the primary draw is the 'rijsttafel,' a dozen-plus dishes featuring vegetables, seafood and meats, all accompanied by rice or noodles. Several of these options are available and are best enjoyed with a group. Tip: Dine between 4:30-6:45pm, and you can get a complete Indonesian meal served in a traditional mangkok (bowl) for just euro9.25.
Sama Sebo
PC Hooftstraat 27 Amsterdam 1071 BL • +31 20 662 8146Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. A muted, textural interior, punctuated by vibrant textiles, sets the scene for diners who stop in to this charming restaurant. Indonesian cuisine makes the most of equatorial ingredients, redolent of spice, warmth and leisure. As with many restaurants of its ilk, Sama Sebo suggests the rice table, a melange of dishes, but a la carte options can also be had. Sidewalk dining is a warm-weather must, and the location on an upscale thoroughfare assures terrific shopping either before or after dinner.
Blue Pepper
Nassaukade 366 Amsterdam 1054 AB • +31 20 489 7039Description:
FURTHER AFIELD. Despite its rather unlikely location along a residential stretch, just a short stroll from the Leidseplein, this modern white-linen Indonesian restaurant is coveted by foodies and food critics alike. Its chef creates sublime contemporary dishes with a distinct West Javanese/Bandung accent, peppered with Chinese and Filipino influences, not to mention an entirely unique 'rijstafel' (rice table). An impressive wine list and rare teas complete the experience.
Le Garage
Ruysdaelstraat 54-56 Amsterdam 1071 XE • +31 20 679 7176Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. Transformed from a 1950s-era garage, this exciting eatery now boasts a sophisticated decor of banquettes and mirrors, ideal for its see-and-be-seen crowd of celebrities and political figures. Even the chef himself is an easily recognized TV personality. His cuisine relies heavily on French tradition, although it ventures into Asian, Dutch and Italian territories as well. The glitzy environs are tempered by well-prepared dishes, including roast squab, Moroccan-spiced lamb, rotisserie chicken, rib-eye with béarnaise sauce, duck à l'orange, and a fresh catch of the day. Prix fixe menus can also be had at the bustling, energetic establishment.
Brasserie van Baerle
Van Baerlestraat 158 Amsterdam 1071 BG • +31 20 679 1532Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. This engaging, established restaurant attracts a diverse mix of people, and depending on when you visit, you'll encounter folks from the world over, including local concert-goers, business professionals, and well-to-do city denizens. The menu is fish and meat-oriented with a twist and includes such delights as roasted sea scallops with truffled parsley-root mousse, creamy quail soup with wild mushrooms and a quail wonton and roast monkfish with oven-braised fennel and risotto, among other standouts on the menu. A charming outdoor garden, fantastic wine menu and Sunday brunch are other reasons to drop by.
Mangerie de Kersentuin
Dijsselhofplantsoen 7 Garden Hotel, Amsterdam 1077 BJ • +31 20 570 5600Description:
FURTHER AFIELD. Studded with broad windows and dressed in the color of its namesake (Cherry Orchard), this hotel restaurant garners praise for both its modern French cuisine created using the region's freshest ingredients and its atmosphere. Well-chosen wines add depth to the menu, and à la carte and prix fixe options are both available. You're likely to run into a few celebrities, given the place's popularity. (Closed the last half of July.)
Dutch
Café de Jaren
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20-22 Amsterdam 1012 CP • +31 20 625 5771Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Contemporary in style and boasting a wonderful location on the Amstel River, this large, popular café invites leisurely dining. Amid its spacious environs, patrons nurse cups of coffee, bask in the warmth of the waterside terrace, and sample lasagne, salads, soups, sandwiches, pastas, snack foods and desserts. A favorite of creative types, the café also attracts folks who want to relax with a glass of wine or browse the selection of available periodicals. There's also a restaurant with a huge salad bar and terrace upstairs. Great for day or evening.
De Bakkerswinkel
Warmoestraat 69 Amsterdam 1012 HX • +31 20 489 8000Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Mention of this delightful establishment is enough to make mouths water, thanks to its repertoire of incredible baked goods. Fresh scones (served with clotted cream), wonderful pain au chocolat, and big, crusty loaves of bread tempt with their aromas alone, as do fragrant coffees and teas. Other options throughout the day include quiche, soups, tarts, light sandwiches, breakfast fare, salads and the like. Service is attentive and helpful, and everything you order is certain to be fresh and well-prepared. Additional locations can be found at Roelofhartstraat 68 (+31 20 662 3594) and on the grounds of the Westergasfabriek at Regulateurshuis 1 (+31 20 688 0632).
Cafe Luxembourg
Spui 22-24 Amsterdam 1012 XA • +31 20 620 6264Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Gleaming with coppery tones and polished woods, this warm, inviting cafe is a welcome sight in the city. Its delightful, well-portioned cuisine runs the gamut, from croquettes to salmon, sandwiches to spring rolls. You'll also find salads, soups, steaks, seafood, and a host of snacks and sweets. Many folks come in for a quick bite and end up lazing for hours in the comfortable atmosphere, or checking out the well-stocked international reading table. Outdoor dining is particularly nice when the weather's warm. From central station: tram 1, 2, or 5 and stop at Spui.
D'Vijff Vlieghen
Spuistraat 294-302 Amsterdam 1012 VX • +31 20 530 4060Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This famous hotel was named after Jan Janszoon Vijff Vlijghen (whose surname translates as 'Five Flies'), the original owner of the premises which spreads across five 17th-century canal houses. It was opened in 1939 by the eccentric art and antiques dealer Nicolaas Kroese. Thanks to his bizarre PR style, it drew numerous celebrities over the decades, including John Wayne, Walt Disney, Elvis Presley, Goldie Hawn and Versace (note the small copper plates on each of the chairs bearing the names of its famous visitors). With its various rooms and spacious, the candlelit venue is suitable for both romantic dinners and business occasions and features dark woods, regional antiques, and even Rembrandt etchings. The menu shakes up traditional Dutch cuisine, offering roast duck fillet, veal sirloin, lamb, suckling pig, grilled fish, and a host of dishes that capitalize on fresh, local ingredients. Seasonal, chef's, and vegetarian menus are available as well. It's only drawback perhaps is that it attracts tourists in droves.
De Poort
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 176-180 Hotel Die Port van Cleve; behind Royal Palace, Amsterdam 1012 SJ • +31 20 624 4860Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This estimable restaurant, affiliated with the Hotel Die Port van Cleve, surrounds patrons with a worldly, yet comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant has been around for more than a century proof of its appeal and is renowned for fantastic steaks, served tender and sizzling hot. Of course, you may want to try their Dutch specialties or other dinner fare, and make sure not to neglect the dessert menu, which includes tiramisu, cheesecake, and a decadent chocolate temptation.
De Keuken van 1870
Spuistraat 4 Amsterdam 1012 TS • +31 20 620 4018Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. In 2002, this former soup kitchen set up in 1870 with the purpose of providing cheap meals to the impoverished closed for two years. After a huge outcry from locals, some rapid fundraising and a major revamp, this veritable treasure reopened. To this day its mission statement is 'a lot for a little,' and office workers, students and pensioners alike can be found in this convivial space enjoying the homely Dutch fare from its enticing à la carte options.
De Silveren Spiegel
Kattengat 4-6 Amsterdam 1012 SZ • +31 20 624 6589Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Eminently romantic, this elegant restaurant (whose name translates as the "Silver Mirror") occupies two canal houses dating from 1614. Beautifully decorated rooms welcome diners to relax amid candlelight and history and partake of innovative Dutch cuisine. The menu features fillet of venison, filled duck's breast with morels, lamb, grilled beef, and a variety of fish entrees. Impeccable wines and fixed-price menus add to the experience. Outdoor dining is available when the weather's mild.
1e Klas
Platform 2B, Centraal Station Amsterdam 1012 ZZ • +31 20 625 0131Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. In years past, this elegant venue was the waiting room for first-class train passengers. Nowadays, the Art Nouveau-styled space invites travelers and other folks into a haven of beauty, where they can indulge in a variety of terrific fare throughout the day. Whether your appetite is large or small, you can get a full, three-course meal or simply have a sandwich and a drink. Regular, gourmet specials provide an upscale note and ensure that no one goes away hungry. Ideal for on-the-run professionals. Rather unusually, the restaurant keeps a pet cockatoo which hops the length of the bar much to diners' amusement.
Café De Prins
Prinsengracht 124 Amsterdam 1015 EA • +31 20 624 9382Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. If you're lucky enough to be in Amsterdam when the weather's mild, De Prins' outdoor terrace makes for wonderful dining along the canal. If not, the comfortable canal house will more than satisfy with its relaxed 'brown café' ambience. A variety of folks frequent this popular place, which offers everything from light fare to full dinners. Representative dishes feature pork, steak, fondue, pastas and duck, and you'll also want to keep an eye out for daily specials. Wonderful, leisurely dining.
De Knijp
Van Baerlestraat 134 Amsterdam 1071 BD • +31 20 671 4248Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. Subtle lighting gleams on dark, polished woods at this cozy, charming restaurant near Amsterdam's concert hall. The menu features Dutch cuisine, albeit with a continental influence, and everything you'll encounter is beautifully prepared. Whether you choose a tilapia filet, a well-composed salad, steak, or some other treat, you'll be suitably impressed by the kitchen's capable hand. The restaurant is ideal for intimate suppers, and since it's open late, it's perfect for post-show meals as well.
French
Breitner
Amstel 212 Amsterdam 1017 AH • +31 20 627 7879Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Bathed in light and good favor, Breitner is a serious restaurant that prefers its clientèle to enjoy themselves rather than defer to its quality. In fact, you'll often find groups of friends frequenting the place, enjoying leisurely meals, and delighting in a menu that's sometimes a bit experimental but always good. Breitner also appeals to business professionals who appreciate the fact that they can meet amid hip surroundings and dine without a contingent of overly attentive servers. Great food and ambiance, no matter your purpose.
Cafe de Kroon
Rembrandtplein 17 First Floor, Amsterdam 1017 CT • +31 20 625 2011Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. De Kroon's gracious interior, ornamented with French furniture and refined details, fits accordingly with the cafe's name, which means "crown." The upscale place offers lunch and dinner options and boasts a wonderful enclosed terrace that affords views of the square. Desserts and coffees satisfy those who simply want to soak in the ambience with a light repast. The cafe is the latest incarnation of the original De Kroon, which first threw open its doors in 1898 but closed at the beginning of the 1950s after losing its largely Jewish clientele during World War Two.
Beddingtons
Utrechtsedwarsstraat 141 Amsterdam 1017 WE • +31 20 620 7393Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Owned and operated by British chef Jean Beddington a favourite amongst local foodies this small yet stylish establishment draws scores of discerning diners to watch her at work from the open kitchen. The regularly changing menus are creative and predominantly European imbued with Asian, with the occasional hint of her British heritage shining through. And her desserts are simply Jean-ius. The service here is also particularly pleasant, warm and efficient and, rather amazingly, the top-notch cusine won't burn a hole in your pocket.
1e Klas
Platform 2B, Centraal Station Amsterdam 1012 ZZ • +31 20 625 0131Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. In years past, this elegant venue was the waiting room for first-class train passengers. Nowadays, the Art Nouveau-styled space invites travelers and other folks into a haven of beauty, where they can indulge in a variety of terrific fare throughout the day. Whether your appetite is large or small, you can get a full, three-course meal or simply have a sandwich and a drink. Regular, gourmet specials provide an upscale note and ensure that no one goes away hungry. Ideal for on-the-run professionals. Rather unusually, the restaurant keeps a pet cockatoo which hops the length of the bar much to diners' amusement.
Chez Georges
Herenstraat 3 Amsterdam 1015 BX • +31 20 626 3332Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. Returning patrons applaud this delightful restaurant, which often books diners weeks in advance. In the intimate place, folks take in the capable cuisine of the Belgian-born chef while they relax amid traditional furnishings, indulging in carefully crafted dishes. Multi-course meals are an especial treat, particularly since they allow the kitchen an extended chance to shine and since they allow diners to experience a well-coordinated meal, either with or without wine. A bit pricey but great for special dinners.
Christophe
Leliegracht 46 Amsterdam 1015 DH • +31 20 625 0807Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. This intimate, clean-lined restaurant remains a well-known city presence, despite the departure of its long-term, Michelin-awarded chef/owner Jean Christophe Royer at the beginning of 2006. New joint owners are his former sommelier Ellen and French chef Jean-Joel. The quality hasn't skipped a beat, however, and regular patrons still flock here for its classic French cuisine. The menu throws up delights such as frog legs in a cream of mushrooms and sorrel, fried garlic and almonds and roasted challans duck with braised duck leg in a sauce of red port and vanilla and celeriac puree. Sublime wines, perfectly attentive service, and stylish surroundings all conspire to make this expensive venue a don't-miss experience.
Café De Prins
Prinsengracht 124 Amsterdam 1015 EA • +31 20 624 9382Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. If you're lucky enough to be in Amsterdam when the weather's mild, De Prins' outdoor terrace makes for wonderful dining along the canal. If not, the comfortable canal house will more than satisfy with its relaxed 'brown café' ambience. A variety of folks frequent this popular place, which offers everything from light fare to full dinners. Representative dishes feature pork, steak, fondue, pastas and duck, and you'll also want to keep an eye out for daily specials. Wonderful, leisurely dining.
Bordewijk
Noordermarkt 7 Amsterdam 1015 MV • +31 20 624 3899Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. A contemporary setting serves as the backdrop for Bordewijk's cuisine highly inventive French-inspired fare imbued with Asian and Italian influences. Poultry, seafood, pork, beef and pasta all benefit from the kitchen's capable hand, and the terrific wine list ensures an ideal complement. The menu changes frequently, and fixed-price options are available. An outdoor terrace accommodates when evenings are warm.
Brasserie van Baerle
Van Baerlestraat 158 Amsterdam 1071 BG • +31 20 679 1532Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. This engaging, established restaurant attracts a diverse mix of people, and depending on when you visit, you'll encounter folks from the world over, including local concert-goers, business professionals, and well-to-do city denizens. The menu is fish and meat-oriented with a twist and includes such delights as roasted sea scallops with truffled parsley-root mousse, creamy quail soup with wild mushrooms and a quail wonton and roast monkfish with oven-braised fennel and risotto, among other standouts on the menu. A charming outdoor garden, fantastic wine menu and Sunday brunch are other reasons to drop by.
Ciel Bleu
Ferdinand Bolstraat 333 Hotel Okura, Amsterdam 1072 LH • +31 20 678 7450Description:
FURTHER AFIELD. 'Haute cusine' doesn't come much higher than this, and not just because of its location on the 23rd floor of Hotel Okura, but also for its two Michelin stars (the only restaurant in Amsterdam to have such an accolade). Delights on the menu which changes four times a year include such mouthwatering delights as marbré of foie gras and stewed veal cheek with chutney of Cévennes onions, and vanilla and sweetbreads lacquered with Pedro Ximénez sherry. And that's just for starters. With choice wines complementing the dishes perfectly, exceptional service, a stylish locale and panoramic views across the city, there's no more better place to be when the sun goes down. Hungry for more? Then book the chef's table adjoining the kitchen (for six to ten people) and watch the masters at work.
To see, to do in Amsterdam
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