Amsterdam is a city known for its rich culture, scenic canals, and diverse food scene. From traditional Dutch dishes to innovative international cuisine, the city offers a wide range of dining experiences. Whether you're looking for a cozy café or an upscale restaurant, here are the top places to eat in Amsterdam in 2024.
1. De Kas – Frankendael Park
Located in a stunning greenhouse, De Kas is a unique farm-to-table restaurant offering a seasonal menu based on fresh ingredients grown on-site. Chef Jos Timmer’s focus is on creating simple yet flavorful dishes using vegetables harvested from the restaurant’s own gardens. De Kas’s modern setting and emphasis on sustainability make it a must-visit for food lovers.
Signature Dish: Seasonal Vegetable Tasting Menu
Location: Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, Amsterdam
Website: De Kas
2. Ciel Bleu – De Pijp
Michelin-starred Ciel Bleu is located on the 23rd floor of the Hotel Okura, offering stunning panoramic views of the city along with exceptional cuisine. With a focus on French and Japanese flavors, the tasting menu includes dishes like lobster, foie gras, and Japanese wagyu. For an unforgettable fine dining experience, Ciel Bleu is the place to go.
Signature Dish: Wagyu Beef with Black Truffle
Michelin Stars: ★★
Location: Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, Amsterdam
Website: Ciel Bleu
3. Foodhallen – Oud-West
For a more casual and diverse food experience, Foodhallen is an indoor food market offering a wide variety of cuisines from around the world. With everything from traditional Dutch bitterballen to sushi, tacos, and burgers, Foodhallen is perfect for those who want to sample different dishes in a lively, social setting.
Signature Dish: Bitterballen from De BallenBar
Location: Bellamyplein 51, Amsterdam
Website: Foodhallen
4. Restaurant Floreyn – De Pijp
Restaurant Floreyn takes traditional Dutch cuisine and gives it a modern twist. Using locally sourced ingredients, Chef Jasper Holthuis creates innovative dishes inspired by Dutch culinary heritage. From poffertjes with herring to venison with seasonal vegetables, Floreyn offers a refined yet comforting take on Dutch classics.
Signature Dish: Poffertjes with Smoked Herring
Location: Albert Cuypstraat 31, Amsterdam
Website: Restaurant Floreyn
5. Restaurant Breda – Centrum
Restaurant Breda offers contemporary European cuisine in a chic and minimalist setting. With a focus on high-quality ingredients, the restaurant’s tasting menu features creative dishes like smoked eel, braised lamb, and innovative desserts. Breda’s relaxed atmosphere and beautifully plated dishes make it a top choice for a memorable dining experience.
Signature Dish: Smoked Eel with Cucumber and Dill
Location: Singel 210, Amsterdam
Website: Restaurant Breda
6. Moeders – Jordaan
For a taste of traditional Dutch home cooking, Moeders (meaning "Mothers") is a beloved restaurant in the heart of Jordaan. The menu features hearty dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), beef stews, and apple pie. The quirky decor, filled with photos of mothers from around the world, adds to the charm of this cozy spot.
Signature Dish: Stamppot with Sausage
Location: Rozengracht 251, Amsterdam
Website: Moeders
7. Restaurant Blauw – Oud-Zuid
If you’re in the mood for Indonesian cuisine, Restaurant Blauw is one of the best places in Amsterdam for a rijsttafel, a traditional Indonesian feast consisting of numerous small dishes. From spicy chicken satay to fragrant coconut rice and various sambals, the flavors are bold and authentic. Blauw is a must-visit for lovers of Indonesian food.
Signature Dish: Rijsttafel
Location: Amstelveenseweg 158-160, Amsterdam
Website: Restaurant Blauw
Conclusion
Amsterdam's food scene offers a perfect mix of traditional Dutch dishes and international flavors. From fine dining at Ciel Bleu to enjoying a casual meal at Foodhallen, the city's restaurants provide a wide range of experiences for every palate. Make sure to visit these top dining spots for an unforgettable culinary journey in 2024!