The 10 Best Restaurants of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a beautiful and vibrant city, full of life and culture. The atmosphere of the city is enhanced by the buzzing nightlife and diverse food culture. There are plenty of amazing restaurants in Amsterdam, each with its own unique style and flavor. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a local looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered with our list of the top 10 best restaurants to visit in Amsterdam!

1. De Kas

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you should definitely check out De Kas. This restaurant is housed in a beautiful greenhouse and serves delicious seasonal dishes. The vegetables used in the dishes are grown in their own garden, and the menu changes regularly according to the season. De Kas is one of the most sustainable restaurants in Amsterdam.

2. Breda

Located in an old Dutch tavern, Breda serves modern European cuisine with a touch of Asian flavors. The menu is constantly changing with the season, so you’ll always have something new to try. Be sure to try the wine pairing, they have an amazing selection of wines!

3. Restaurant Vinkeles

This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a beautiful garden room of Hotel The Dylan. The chef creates fantastic French cuisine with an innovative twist. They also have a great selection of cheeses from all over Europe, we highly recommend trying out their cheese platter!

4. The Seafood Bar

As the name suggests, The Seafood Bar serves the best seafood in the city. The fresh oysters and lobster are a must-try. The restaurant has a lively ambiance and a great selection of drinks to complement your meal. If you’re a fan of seafood, this is the place to be!

5. Cafe de Klos

If you’re in the mood for some meat, Cafe de Klos is the place to be. This steakhouse is consistently rated as the best in Amsterdam. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and amazing grilled meat dishes. Be sure to try their famous pork ribs, they are out of this world!

6. Indrapura

Indrapura is the best Indonesian restaurant in Amsterdam. The decor is beautiful, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The restaurant serves traditional Indonesian dishes and has a great selection of drinks. Be sure to try the rijsttafel, which is a selection of various Indonesian dishes served in small portions.

7. La Rive

La Rive is a beautiful restaurant that overlooks the Amstel River. The menu is inspired by French cuisine and features fresh ingredients from local markets. The restaurant has a great wine selection, and the staff is very knowledgeable about the wines they serve.

8. CTaste

CTaste is a unique restaurant that offers a completely different dining experience. The restaurant is completely dark, and the waitstaff are all visually impaired. This allows diners to experience their food through taste, smell, and texture instead of sight. It’s a great experience for anyone looking to try something new!

9. The Pantry

The Pantry serves traditional Dutch dishes in a cozy and homely atmosphere. The menu features classic dishes like stamppot and bitterballen, as well as some international dishes. The restaurant has a great selection of beers and wines to complement your meal.

10. Ciel Bleu

Ciel Bleu is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located on the 23rd floor of Hotel Okura Amsterdam. The restaurant offers a fantastic view of the city skyline and serves innovative French cuisine. Be sure to reserve well in advance as this restaurant is always in high demand.

Conclusion

There you have it, the top 10 best restaurants to visit in Amsterdam. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience and amazing food, making them all great choices. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meat, or vegetarian dishes, Amsterdam has something to offer for everyone. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants are always in high demand.

The Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam: Beyond the Tourist Spots

As a picturesque city lined with canals and bridges, Amsterdam has so much more than just its obvious tourist attractions. From hidden gems to local delicacies, vibrant cultural events, to fascinating stories from its past, the city has plenty to offer curious travelers. Read on for an insider’s guide to the best-kept secrets and local experiences in Amsterdam.

Explore the Hidden Gems

While the popular Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum are undoubtedly worth a visit, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions worth exploring. Head to the Botanical Garden to marvel at the exquisite flora or take a stroll through Foam and Huis Marseille museums to appreciate contemporary art and photography. For a more adventurous experience, visit the sixteenth-century windmill brewery, Brouwerij’t IJ, and taste some of the finest home-brewed beers in the city.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

The Netherlands may not be renowned for its cuisine, but Amsterdam has plenty of delicious local specialties to enjoy. Start with the classic bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) or stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), and then move on to Dutch herring or poffertjes (mini pancakes). Enjoy an extensive Indonesian Rijsttafel (rice table) at Tempo Doeloe restaurant or have a vegan brunch at the trendy Greenwoods restaurant. Don’t forget to try some of Amsterdam’s famous cheese, such as Gouda, Edam and Leyden, which pairs perfectly with a glass of wine at the small yet cozy cheese shops.

Experience the Culture

Amsterdam is renowned for its bohemian and liberal atmosphere, best showcased at the annual Pride Amsterdam parade, where all are welcome to come and celebrate inclusivity and diversity. For a more laid-back cultural experience, attend a classical music performance at the Concertgebouw or visit the impressive Van Gogh Museum to immerse yourself in the Dutch master’s art. Another unique cultural phenomenon is the traditional Dutch pub culture, known as bruine kroegen, where locals gather for some casual drinks and chats.

Discover Fascinating History

With such a rich history, Amsterdam is full of captivating stories and legends. One such story takes place at the Begijnhof, a tranquil inner courtyard sheltered from the busy city, where a hidden chapel still stands, and mass is still held daily. Walkthrough the cobbled streets of the De Wallen district, and you’ll discover tales of the city’s seafaring days and the notorious Red Light District. Don’t forget to visit the Museum Het Rembrandthuis, where the famed painter Rembrandt lived and worked.

Go off the Beaten Path

Escape the crowds, and rent a bike to explore some of Amsterdam’s quieter neighborhoods. Head to the Vondelpark, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city, and enjoy a picnic lunch or attend an outdoor performance. Get lost in the charming Jordaan district, where narrow streets and hidden courtyards reveal local cafes, boutiques, and galleries. For a one-of-a-kind experience, head to the NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard turned creative hub, where tourists can witness street art, dance parties, or even visit an indoor rock-climbing facility.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an inquisitive traveler, a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or just want to have some fun, Amsterdam has something for everyone. By exploring beyond the tourist spots and experiencing the city as locals do, you’ll gain a richer understanding of what makes Amsterdam such a unique destination, and plenty of stories to bring back home.