Best Restaurants
in Amsterdam 2025
Planning a trip to Amsterdam and wondering where to find the absolute best restaurants in Amsterdam? Or perhaps you're a local seeking new culinary adventures? This vibrant city is a food lover's paradise, constantly evolving with innovative chefs, diverse cuisines, and unforgettable dining experiences. From Michelin-starred elegance to cozy neighbourhood gems, the search for the best restaurants in Amsterdam is an exciting journey. We've scoured the city, tasted countless dishes, and carefully curated a list of establishments that truly stand out. Our guide to the best restaurants in Amsterdam for 2025 ensures you'll discover culinary excellence that caters to every palate and occasion. Get ready to indulge in some of the most memorable meals the Dutch capital has to offer, as we unveil the crème de la crème of Amsterdam's dining scene.
Best Restaurants in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's dining landscape is as diverse and charming as its canals. The city buzzes with gastronomic energy, making the quest for the best restaurants in Amsterdam a delightful challenge. Whether you crave traditional Dutch comfort food, avant-garde fine dining, or exotic international flavours, the best restaurants in Amsterdam offer something special for everyone. This comprehensive guide will take you through our top ten picks, each celebrated for its unique character, exceptional cuisine, and overall dining brilliance. Prepare to be inspired and hungry as we delve into what makes these establishments truly the best restaurants in Amsterdam. Here's our meticulously chosen list of the best restaurants in Amsterdam for an unforgettable dining experience:
1. Restaurant Flore (Hotel de l'Europe)
Who Is This For?: Special occasions, romantic dinners, fine dining connoisseurs, and those seeking an exquisite tasting menu experience.
The Food & Drink (5/5)
Restaurant Flore, boasting two Michelin stars, offers a deeply sustainable and innovative take on Dutch fine dining. Chef Bas van Kranen's philosophy revolves around minimal waste and hyper-seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
The tasting menu is a journey of discovery, with each dish presented as a work of art. We started with a delicate Oyster with fermented apple and sea buckthorn, a vibrant burst of oceanic freshness and tartness. The star of the show was undoubtedly the Roasted Celeriac with black truffle and smoked butter sauce.
The celeriac, often overlooked, was transformed into a rich, earthy, and unbelievably tender centerpiece, with the truffle lending an intoxicating aroma and the butter sauce adding a luxurious mouthfeel. The textures were sublime – crisp exterior, yielding interior.
For dessert, the Beetroot and Raspberry with tonka bean ice cream was an unexpected delight, a harmonious blend of sweet earthiness and fruity zest, perfectly balanced. The drinks pairing, featuring biodynamic wines and inventive non-alcoholic options, was thoughtfully curated and expertly explained by the sommelier.
The coffee, freshly brewed and robust, was a perfect end to the meal. The menu, while offering a choice between a 6- or 8-course tasting, caters to dietary restrictions with elegance and creativity.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (5/5)
Located within the iconic Hotel de l'Europe, Flore exudes timeless elegance and sophistication. The decor is refined yet comfortable, with natural tones, plush seating, and subtle lighting creating an intimate and exclusive feel. Large windows offer stunning views of the Amstel River, especially magical as evening falls. The noise level is hushed, allowing for easy, private conversation.
Every detail, from the crisp white tablecloths to the sparkling glassware, speaks of meticulous attention. The restrooms were immaculate, reflecting the overall pristine nature of the establishment. The overall mood is one of serene luxury, making you feel pampered and utterly relaxed.
The Service (5/5)
The service at Flore is exemplary – a masterclass in hospitality. The staff are incredibly welcoming, warm, and highly professional, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and discretion. Our server was exceptionally knowledgeable about every single ingredient in each dish, explaining the sourcing and preparation with genuine passion.
The timing of each course was flawless, never rushed nor delayed. Water glasses were refilled almost imperceptibly, and crumbs were swept away with precision. The team works like a well-oiled machine, anticipating needs before they are even voiced.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€)
Flore is undeniably a fine dining experience, and the prices reflect its two Michelin stars and commitment to exceptional quality and sustainability. Expect to pay upwards of €180-€200 per person for the tasting menu, excluding drinks.
While it's a significant investment, the value lies in the unparalleled culinary artistry, the impeccable service, and the luxurious setting. This is not just a meal; it's a memorable event. The portion sizes, typical of fine dining, are small but perfectly portioned for a multi-course experience, ensuring you feel satisfied, not overstuffed.
Logistics & Location (5/5)
Flore is situated in the heart of Amsterdam, right on the beautiful Amstel River.
Reservations: Absolutely essential. Booking well in advance (several weeks to months) is highly recommended due to its popularity. Reservations can be made easily via their website.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14, 1012 CP. It's easily accessible by public transport; trams stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from Centraal Station or Dam Square. While street parking can be challenging, paid parking garages are available in the vicinity.
Wait Times: With a reservation, there are no wait times.
Verdict: Restaurant Flore is a profound culinary experience, a celebration of Dutch produce, and a testament to sustainable luxury. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly special meal among the best restaurants in Amsterdam. We would return in a heartbeat.
2. Rijks (Rijksmuseum)
Who Is This For?: Foodies seeking modern Dutch cuisine, art lovers, couples, and those looking for a sophisticated dining experience after visiting the Rijksmuseum.
The Food & Drink (4.5/5)
Rijks, the Michelin-starred restaurant located within the prestigious Rijksmuseum, offers a refined interpretation of Dutch cuisine with international influences. Chef Joris Bijdendijk champions local ingredients and classic techniques, presented with contemporary flair.
We opted for the tasting menu, which changes seasonally. A standout was the Zeeland Mussel Velouté with saffron and samphire, a rich and creamy soup bursting with the taste of the sea, perfectly complemented by the subtle spice of saffron. The Dutch Veal with wild mushrooms and smoked eel emulsion was another highlight; the veal was incredibly tender, and the smoked eel added an unexpected depth of flavour that was both intriguing and delicious.
For dessert, the Rhubarb and Elderflower Mousse with white chocolate was light, refreshing, and beautifully balanced between tart and sweet. The wine list is extensive, featuring a strong selection of European wines, and the sommelier provided excellent, unpretentious recommendations. They also offer a good range of high-quality spirits and non-alcoholic choices.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (4.5/5)
The ambiance at Rijks is grand yet approachable, perfectly blending historical elegance with modern design. The high ceilings, tasteful art, and views into the museum's garden create a sense of occasion. The decor features warm wood tones, comfortable seating, and elegant lighting, which strikes a balance between bright and intimate depending on the time of day.
The noise level is generally lively but never overwhelming, allowing for comfortable conversation. The restaurant is impeccably clean, as expected from its location within a national museum. The overall mood is sophisticated and culturally rich, befitting its iconic location.
The Service (4.5/5)
Service at Rijks is professional, attentive, and friendly. The staff are well-trained and knowledgeable about the menu, able to answer questions about ingredients and preparation methods. Our server was polite and efficient, ensuring our meal flowed smoothly without feeling rushed.
They offered good wine pairings and explained each dish clearly. Water glasses were kept full, and plates were cleared promptly. While perhaps not as overtly warm as some smaller establishments, the service was polished and highly competent.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€)
As a Michelin-starred restaurant in a prime location, Rijks falls into the higher price bracket. A multi-course tasting menu can range from €100-€150 per person, excluding drinks.
Given the quality of the ingredients, the inventive cooking, the beautiful setting, and the refined service, we found the experience to be good value. The portions are elegant and satisfying within the context of a tasting menu.
Logistics & Location (5/5)
Rijks is conveniently located within the magnificent Rijksmuseum on Museumplein.
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for dinner. Book a few weeks in advance via their website.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX. It's easily accessible by multiple tram lines stopping at Museumplein. Parking can be found in nearby paid garages (e.g., Q-Park Museumplein).
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect prompt seating.
Verdict: Rijks offers a truly memorable Dutch culinary experience within a stunning cultural landmark. It's a fantastic choice among the best restaurants in Amsterdam for an elegant meal that celebrates local flavours. Highly recommended.
3. Vinkeles (The Dylan Amsterdam)
Who Is This For?: Romantic evenings, special celebrations, business dinners, and lovers of contemporary French cuisine with a Dutch twist.
The Food & Drink (5/5)
Nestled in the cellar of the boutique Dylan Hotel, the Michelin-starred Vinkeles delivers an exquisite contemporary French dining experience with subtle Dutch influences. Chef Dennis Kuipers crafts dishes that are both delicate and intensely flavorful, focusing on premium ingredients.
We savored the Langoustine with celeriac, hazelnut, and passion fruit, a dish that beautifully balanced the sweetness of the langoustine with the tartness of passion fruit and the earthy crunch of hazelnuts. The Anjou Pigeon with smoked beetroot, foie gras, and cherry was another triumph; the pigeon perfectly cooked, juicy and tender, complemented by the rich foie gras and sweet-tart cherry reduction.
For dessert, the Chocolate Textures with sea salt caramel and tonka bean was a decadent and complex treat, showcasing various forms of chocolate in a symphony of flavour and texture. The wine list is extensive and impressive, with a focus on French vintages, and the sommelier's pairings were insightful and perfectly matched. They also offer a selection of artisanal cocktails.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (5/5)
Vinkeles is housed in what was once an 18th-century bakery, and its historical charm is beautifully preserved and enhanced by modern elegance. Exposed brick walls, vaulted ceilings, and soft, intimate lighting create a wonderfully romantic and sophisticated atmosphere.
The decor is chic, with comfortable seating and thoughtful touches. The noise level is low, allowing for quiet conversation, making it ideal for intimate dining. The restaurant is immaculately clean, from the dining room to the plush restrooms. The overall mood is one of understated luxury and timeless romance.
The Service (5/5)
The service at Vinkeles is impeccable, embodying the essence of fine dining. The staff are exceptionally welcoming, attentive, and discreet. Our server was highly knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu with ease and explaining each intricate dish with clarity and passion.
The pacing of the meal was perfectly judged, ensuring a leisurely and enjoyable experience. Water glasses were never empty, and plates were cleared with graceful efficiency. The team anticipates every need, providing a seamless and highly personalized dining experience.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€€)
Vinkeles is at the pinnacle of Amsterdam's fine dining scene, and its prices reflect its Michelin star and premium experience. Expect tasting menus to start from €150-€180 per person, excluding wine pairings.
While it's a significant expenditure, the exceptional quality of ingredients, the culinary artistry, the stunning ambiance, and the flawless service make it a worthwhile splurge for a truly special occasion. The portion sizes are perfectly calibrated for a multi-course tasting menu.
Logistics & Location (5/5)
Vinkeles is located within The Dylan Hotel on the picturesque Keizersgracht.
Reservations: Absolutely essential. Book several weeks to months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Reservations are available online.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Keizersgracht 384, 1016 GD. It's centrally located and easily accessible by tram (nearest stops are Spui or Westermarkt, a short walk away). Paid parking garages can be found nearby.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect to be seated immediately.
Verdict: Vinkeles offers an unforgettable, truly luxurious dining experience. It's a beacon of culinary excellence and a definitive choice for one of the best restaurants in Amsterdam for an indulgent and romantic meal. Simply superb.
4. Breda
Who Is This For?: Groups of friends, food enthusiasts, business casual dining, and those who appreciate creative, seasonal Dutch cuisine without excessive formality.
The Food & Drink (4.5/5)
Breda, run by three chefs with a shared vision, offers modern European cuisine with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients and bold flavours. Their concept is centred around a multi-course "Menu Breda," allowing diners to choose the number of courses (typically 5, 6, or 7). We enjoyed a fantastic Scallop with fermented garlic, puffed rice, and beurre blanc, a delightful interplay of sweet, savoury, and textural elements.
The Roasted Duck Breast with smoked beet, blackberry, and liquorice jus was a highlight, the duck perfectly pink and succulent, complemented by the rich, complex jus and the unexpected sweetness of blackberry. The kitchen’s approach is playful yet precise.
For dessert, the Pineapple Carpaccio with coconut sorbet and chili foam was an exciting finish, light, refreshing, and with a surprising kick. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, offering a good selection of natural and classic wines, and the staff are happy to offer excellent pairings. They also have a creative cocktail menu.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (4/5)
Breda strikes a balance between stylish and relaxed. The decor is modern and minimalist, with clean lines, warm lighting, and contemporary art. It feels vibrant and energetic without being overly loud. The tables are well-spaced, allowing for comfortable conversation.
The open kitchen adds to the lively atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the culinary action. Cleanliness is evident throughout. The overall mood is buzzing, sociable, and inviting, making it perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a business meal where conversation is key.
The Service (4/5)
The service at Breda is friendly, enthusiastic, and efficient. The staff are clearly passionate about the food and happy to explain the inventive dishes. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and provided excellent recommendations.
The pacing of the multi-course meal was well-managed, allowing for enjoyment of each dish without feeling rushed. They were attentive without being intrusive, ensuring water glasses were topped up and plates cleared promptly.
Price & Value for Money (€€€)
Breda offers a high-quality dining experience at a more accessible price point than some of Amsterdam's Michelin-starred counterparts, offering excellent value. The 5-course menu typically starts around €70-€80, with additional courses increasing the price.
Considering the innovative cuisine, quality ingredients, and professional service, this represents very good value for modern European dining in Amsterdam. Portion sizes are well-balanced for the multi-course format.
Logistics & Location (4/5) Breda is located in the lively Singel area, close to Spui.
Reservations: Recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Booking a week or two in advance is advisable via their website.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Singel 210C, 1016 AB. It's centrally located and easily reachable by tram (Spui stop is very close) or a short walk from Dam Square. Limited street parking is available, but nearby paid garages are a better option.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect prompt seating.
Verdict: Breda offers an exciting and accessible fine dining experience, perfect for those who appreciate creative cooking in a lively atmosphere. It’s a definite contender for the best restaurants in Amsterdam for a dynamic culinary journey.
5. Vuurtoreneiland (Lighthouse Island)
Who Is This For?: Adventurous diners, nature lovers, those seeking a truly unique and memorable experience, and groups looking for something beyond the ordinary.
The Food & Drink (5/5)
Vuurtoreneiland is less a restaurant and more an immersive culinary adventure on a remote island in the IJmeer. The concept is seasonal, farm-to-table dining, with a fixed menu dictated by what nature provides. We experienced the summer menu, which revolved around ingredients foraged from the island or sourced from local farms.
The Smoked Cod with samphire, new potatoes, and a dill butter sauce was exceptionally fresh, with the smokiness adding depth without overpowering the delicate fish. The Wild Duck with roasted root vegetables and a rich game jus showcased perfect cooking, tender and flavourful, demonstrating incredible skill.
Dessert was a rustic yet elegant Foraged Berry Crumble with homemade vanilla ice cream, highlighting the natural sweetness of the berries. The drinks pairing, again, focuses on natural wines, local beers, and innovative non-alcoholic concoctions.
The menu is highly seasonal and limited, catering to dietary needs with advance notice, but the experience is about trusting the chef's vision.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (5/5)
This is where Vuurtoreneiland truly shines. The journey itself is part of the ambiance, involving a scenic boat ride from Amsterdam. The restaurant is housed in an old, partially glass-enclosed fortress/lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the water and the Amsterdam skyline in the distance.
The decor is rustic, rugged, and wonderfully minimalist, letting the natural surroundings speak for themselves. In winter, it's cozy with wood-burning stoves; in summer, it's airy and bright. The noise level is generally conversational, dictated by the gentle murmur of fellow diners and the sounds of nature.
It feels raw, authentic, and utterly unique. Cleanliness is maintained despite the rustic setting. The overall mood is one of adventurous discovery and peaceful immersion in nature.
The Service (4.5/5)
The service on Vuurtoreneiland is warm, passionate, and incredibly personal. The staff are clearly dedicated to the concept and are excellent storytellers, explaining the history of the island, the philosophy behind the food, and the provenance of each ingredient.
The pacing of the meal is relaxed, befitting the island setting, ensuring you have ample time to savour both the food and the views. They are attentive to specific needs and eager to enhance the unique experience.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€)
Vuurtoreneiland is an experience, and its price reflects that. The fixed menu, including the boat trip, typically ranges from €120-€150 per person, excluding drinks. While certainly a splurge, the value comes from the truly unique location, the immersive journey, the high-quality seasonal ingredients, and the unforgettable atmosphere.
This isn't just dinner; it's an adventure. Portion sizes are well-considered within the multi-course format.
Logistics & Location (5/5) This restaurant is on a small island in the IJmeer, accessible only by their private boat.
Reservations: Absolutely essential and require booking far in advance (months, sometimes almost a year) due to its popularity and limited seating. Book online via their website.
Location & Accessibility: The boat departs from a dock at Amsterdam's Veemkade. Specific instructions are provided upon booking. Public transport connects well to the departure point. There's usually paid parking nearby.
Wait Times: You need to be at the departure point at a specific time for the boat. Once on the island, the experience is guided by the set schedule.
Verdict: For an unparalleled dining adventure that combines spectacular food with a stunning, unique location, Vuurtoreneiland is one of the best restaurants in Amsterdam – if you can get a reservation! An unforgettable experience.
6. Bak (Het Veemgebouw)
Who Is This For?: Progressive foodies, couples seeking a modern dining experience, and those who appreciate innovative cuisine with a focus on vegetables.
The Food & Drink (4.5/5)
Bak, housed in a former warehouse overlooking the IJ river, is a culinary gem known for its creative, plant-forward menus and natural wine pairings. Chef Riccardo Bertolini’s cooking is adventurous and thoughtful, with a strong emphasis on fermentation, pickling, and showcasing vegetables in exciting ways, though meat and fish also feature.
Our tasting menu began with a vibrant Fermented Carrot Tartare with smoked crème fraîche and rye bread, a surprisingly complex and utterly delicious vegetarian starter. The Pan-Seared Cod with kohlrabi, mussels, and a sea lettuce broth was perfectly cooked, the cod flaky and moist, with the broth adding a delicate oceanic depth.
The vegetarian main course, Roasted Cauliflower with black garlic puree, capers, and brown butter, was incredibly rich and satisfying, proving vegetables can be the star. For dessert, the Buckwheat ice cream with plum and fennel pollen was an unexpected and delightful combination of earthy, sweet, and aromatic flavours.
The natural wine list is exceptional, offering a diverse selection of intriguing and often biodynamic options, and the sommelier is highly skilled at guiding guests through them.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (4/5)
Bak's setting in a historic warehouse gives it a cool, industrial-chic vibe. High ceilings, large windows offering views of the IJ, and raw concrete elements are softened by warm lighting, wooden tables, and comfortable seating.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, with a lively but not overly noisy buzz. There’s a rustic elegance to the space. The open kitchen adds to the dynamic feel. Cleanliness is well-maintained throughout. The overall mood is cool, contemporary, and inviting, making it a great spot for a modern dining experience.
The Service (4/5)
The service at Bak is knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly, matching the restaurant's contemporary vibe. The staff are passionate about the food and the natural wine selection, eagerly explaining the unique ingredients and preparation methods.
Our server was excellent at guiding us through the tasting menu and recommending wine pairings that complemented the adventurous dishes. The pacing of the meal was well-judged, allowing for a leisurely and enjoyable evening.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€)
Bak offers a high-end, innovative dining experience, and its prices reflect that. A multi-course tasting menu typically costs between €90-€120 per person, excluding wine pairings.
Considering the creativity, quality of ingredients (many organic and local), and the unique atmosphere, it offers very good value for modern fine dining. The portions are perfectly suited for a multi-course meal.
Logistics & Location (4/5) Bak is located in Amsterdam-Noord, across the IJ river.
Reservations: Recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Book a few weeks in advance via their website.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Van Diemenstraat 408, 1013 CR. It's accessible via the NDSM ferry from Centraal Station (a scenic and free ride!) or by bus. There's generally more parking available in Noord than in the city centre.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect prompt seating.
Verdict: Bak is a standout for its innovative, vegetable-forward cuisine and superb natural wine list. It’s a definite must-try for food adventurers looking for the best restaurants in Amsterdam with a modern edge.
7. Restaurant 212
Who Is This For?: High-end foodies, those seeking a unique interactive dining experience, and couples looking for modern fine dining with flair.
The Food & Drink (5/5)
Restaurant 212, another two-Michelin-starred establishment, offers a truly unique culinary concept: no tables. Instead, all guests dine directly at the kitchen counter, providing an immersive, interactive experience. Chefs Richard van Oostenbrugge and Thomas Groot deliver playful, technically brilliant dishes with strong, clear flavours.
Our meal began with a signature "Oyster" of Gillardeau with Granny Smith apple and celery, a refreshing and inventive bite that awakened the palate. The Scallop with roasted cauliflower, hazelnut, and brown butter was exquisitely prepared, the scallop seared to perfection.
A highlight was the Slow-Cooked Duck with smoked potato purée, foie gras, and truffle, an incredibly rich and luxurious dish where every component sang. For dessert, the Apple Tarte Tatin with vanilla ice cream, prepared right in front of us, was a spectacle and a delight.
The wine list is extensive and expertly curated, offering a global selection of premium wines. The sommelier is excellent at recommending pairings and explaining the choices. They also craft sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (5/5)
The ambiance at 212 is unlike any other. Dining directly at the sleek, dark marble counter surrounding the open kitchen is both intimate and exciting. You become part of the culinary theatre, watching the chefs meticulously prepare each dish.
The lighting is focused on the kitchen and the plates, creating a dramatic and engaging atmosphere. The noise level is a gentle hum of conversation mixed with the focused sounds of the kitchen – chopping, searing, plating – which adds to the immersive experience.
The space is impeccably clean and minimalist, allowing the food and the cooking process to be the central focus. The overall mood is one of sophisticated engagement and high-energy culinary artistry.
The Service (5/5)
The service at 212 is exceptional and highly personalized, as you are directly interacting with the chefs and front-of-house team throughout your meal. The chefs themselves often present the dishes, explaining their creations with passion and detail.
The front-of-house staff are incredibly knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly, anticipating every need. The pacing of the meal is expertly managed, ensuring a seamless flow of dishes while still allowing for conversation and observation of the kitchen. It’s truly a collaborative and engaging service experience.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€€)
As a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering such a unique, interactive experience, 212 is at the very top of the price range. Expect the tasting menu to start from €180-€200 per person, before drinks.
While it's a significant investment, the value comes from the unparalleled culinary skill, the high-quality ingredients, and the one-of-a-kind interactive dining experience.
This is more than a meal; it's a memorable performance. Portions are refined and perfectly suited for the extensive tasting menu.
Logistics & Location (5/5) 212 is centrally located on the Amstel river.
Reservations: Absolutely essential. Booking several weeks to months in advance is highly recommended due to the limited seating. Reservations are made via their website.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Amstel 212, 1017 AH. It's very central and easily accessible by tram (nearest stops are Waterlooplein or Rembrandtplein, a short walk). Paid parking garages are available nearby.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect immediate seating at the counter.
Verdict: For an extraordinary and interactive fine dining experience where the kitchen is the stage, 212 is an absolute must-visit and firmly among the best restaurants in Amsterdam. A truly immersive culinary journey.
8. Restaurant Graham's Kitchen
Who Is This For?: Lovers of modern European cuisine, couples, small groups, and those seeking a relaxed yet refined dining experience in the Pijp.
The Food & Drink (4/5) Graham's Kitchen, led by Scottish chef Graham Mee, offers modern European cuisine with a distinct focus on bold flavours and seasonal ingredients, often with a subtle Scottish influence. The restaurant excels at showcasing high-quality produce with elegant simplicity. We particularly enjoyed the Pan-Seared Scallops with black pudding, apple, and a cider reduction, a delightful combination of sweet, savoury, and tart, with the black pudding adding a rich, earthy note. The Lamb Rump with artichoke puree, broad beans, and rosemary jus was cooked to perfection – tender and succulent – with the jus adding depth. For dessert, the Deconstructed Raspberry Cranachan with toasted oats and whisky cream was a playful and delicious nod to Scottish heritage. The wine list is well-chosen, featuring a good range of European wines at various price points, and the staff are happy to provide recommendations. They also offer a small selection of craft beers and classic cocktails.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (4/5) Located in the charming Pijp neighbourhood, Graham's Kitchen offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The decor is stylish and modern, with warm lighting, dark wood accents, and comfortable seating. It feels upscale yet unpretentious, creating a relaxed fine dining vibe. The noise level is generally moderate, allowing for easy conversation, making it suitable for both romantic dinners and small group gatherings. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained. The overall mood is welcoming, refined, and intimate, perfect for a relaxed evening out.
The Service (4/5) The service at Graham's Kitchen is friendly, professional, and attentive. The staff are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to explain the dishes and offer wine suggestions. Our server was efficient, ensuring the meal progressed smoothly without feeling rushed. They checked in periodically without being intrusive, ensuring a comfortable dining experience.
Price & Value for Money (€€€) Graham's Kitchen offers high-quality modern European cuisine at a mid-to-high price point, providing excellent value for the experience. A three-course menu typically ranges from €55-€65, with additional courses available. Considering the quality of ingredients, the skilled cooking, and the pleasant ambiance, it represents good value for a refined meal in Amsterdam. Portion sizes are well-balanced.
Logistics & Location (4/5) Graham's Kitchen is situated in the popular Pijp neighbourhood.
Reservations: Recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Booking a week or two in advance is advisable via their website.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Hemonystraat 38, 1074 BP. It's easily accessible by tram (various lines stopping at Albert Cuypmarkt or Ceintuurbaan are a short walk away). Street parking in De Pijp can be difficult; public transport is recommended.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect prompt seating.
Verdict: Graham's Kitchen delivers consistently excellent modern European food in a lovely setting. It’s a strong contender for the best restaurants in Amsterdam for a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience.
9. Café Caron
Who Is This For?: Lovers of classic French bistro cuisine, couples, groups of friends seeking a lively atmosphere, and those who appreciate hearty, well-executed dishes.
The Food & Drink (4.5/5)
Café Caron, run by Alain Caron (of Dutch MasterChef fame) and his sons, is a bustling, authentic French bistro in the heart of De Pijp. The menu features timeless French classics executed with precision and passion. We indulged in the rich and comforting Escargots with garlic butter and parsley, a perfect starter. The Steak Frites with maître d'hôtel butter was cooked exactly to order, a generous cut of perfectly seared meat with crispy, golden fries. The Duck Confit with dauphinoise potatoes was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with crispy skin and deeply flavourful meat. For dessert, the Crème Brûlée was textbook perfect – a crisp sugar crust atop a silky, vanilla-infused custard. The wine list is predominantly French, offering an excellent selection to complement the cuisine, and the staff are knowledgeable in guiding your choice. They also serve good quality coffee and classic French aperitifs.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (4.5/5)
Café Caron embodies the quintessential Parisian bistro experience. The decor is classic French, with dark wood, brass accents, red leather banquettes, and a lively, convivial atmosphere. It's bustling and energetic, with a delightful buzz of conversation and clinking glasses. While lively, the noise level is still comfortable enough for conversation. The lighting is warm and inviting, creating a cozy and authentic feel. The restaurant is well-maintained, with a rustic charm. The overall mood is vibrant, celebratory, and genuinely French, making you feel transported to Paris.
The Service (4/5)
The service at Café Caron is efficient, friendly, and typically French bistro-style – professional yet with character. The staff are attentive without being overly formal, and they handle the busy environment with ease. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and the wine list, offering good recommendations. The pacing of the meal was well-judged, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. They were quick to clear plates and ensured our drinks were topped up.
Price & Value for Money (€€€)
Café Caron offers excellent quality French bistro fare at a mid-to-high price point. Main courses typically range from €25-€40. Given the generous portion sizes, the quality of the ingredients, and the authentic bistro experience, it represents very good value for traditional French cuisine in Amsterdam.
Logistics & Location (4/5)
Café Caron is located in the lively Pijp neighbourhood.
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Booking a week or two in advance is advisable via their website or phone.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Frans Halsstraat 28H, 1072 DB. It's easily accessible by tram (various lines stopping at Albert Cuypmarkt or Ferdinand Bolstraat are a short walk away). Street parking in De Pijp is difficult; public transport is strongly recommended.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect prompt seating.
Verdict: For an authentic, bustling, and delicious French bistro experience, Café Caron is a standout. It's a fantastic choice among the best restaurants in Amsterdam for those craving classic French comfort.
10. De Kas
Who Is This For?: Lovers of fresh, organic, farm-to-table cuisine, vegetarians/vegans, groups of friends, and those seeking a unique, bright dining experience in a greenhouse setting.
The Food & Drink (5/5)
De Kas (meaning "The Greenhouse") offers a truly unique farm-to-table experience, with most ingredients grown in their own adjacent greenhouses and garden. The menu is highly seasonal and fixed, focusing on what's harvested that day, making it a dream for fresh food enthusiasts and especially adaptable for vegetarians and vegans. Our multi-course menu began with a vibrant Garden Salad with edible flowers, homemade ricotta, and a delicate herb vinaigrette, showcasing the incredible freshness of the produce. The Grilled Sea Bream with roasted asparagus, broad beans, and lemon verbena foam was expertly cooked, the fish flaky, and the vegetables bursting with flavour. The highlight for many, however, is often the stunning array of vegetable-focused dishes. For dessert, the Strawberry and Elderflower Panna Cotta with pistachio crumble was a light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced end to the meal. The wine list leans towards natural and biodynamic wines that pair beautifully with the fresh, often earthy flavours. They also offer excellent fresh juices and herbal teas from their garden.
Ambiance & Atmosphere (5/5)
De Kas is housed in a beautifully restored greenhouse dating back to 1926. The ambiance is breathtakingly unique – bright, airy, and filled with natural light, even on a cloudy day. You are literally dining among the plants that will become your meal. The decor is rustic yet elegant, with exposed steel beams, wooden tables, and an abundance of greenery. The noise level is generally moderate, a pleasant hum of conversation. It feels connected to nature, serene, and incredibly fresh. The restaurant is impeccably clean. The overall mood is one of natural beauty, tranquility, and conscious dining, creating a truly special and memorable setting.
The Service (4.5/5)
The service at De Kas is warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic about the farm-to-table concept. The staff are eager to explain the daily menu, the origins of the ingredients, and even lead guests on tours of the adjacent greenhouses if time permits. Our server was attentive and friendly, ensuring the meal flowed smoothly. They handled dietary restrictions with ease and demonstrated a deep understanding of their unique culinary philosophy.
Price & Value for Money (€€€€)
De Kas offers a high-end, unique dining experience, and its prices reflect the quality of the ingredients (many grown on-site), the labour-intensive preparation, and the stunning setting. A fixed multi-course menu typically ranges from €80-€100 per person, excluding drinks. While it's a significant investment, the value comes from the unparalleled freshness, the innovative cuisine, and the truly unique, immersive greenhouse experience. Portions are well-judged for the multi-course format, ensuring satisfaction.
Logistics & Location (4/5)
De Kas is located in Frankendael Park in Amsterdam-Oost.
Reservations: Absolutely essential. Booking several weeks to months in advance is highly recommended due to its popularity. Reservations are made online.
Location & Accessibility: Located at Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE. It's a bit outside the absolute city centre but easily accessible by tram or bus (various lines stop nearby, a short walk through the park). Limited street parking is available, but public transport is generally more convenient.
Wait Times: With a reservation, expect prompt seating.
Verdict: De Kas provides an exceptional farm-to-table experience that is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a definite highlight and a strong contender for the best restaurants in Amsterdam, especially for those who cherish fresh, seasonal, and sustainable cuisine.