Amsterdam, with its rich history and cosmopolitan flair, is a city that takes pride in its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From historic canal houses transformed into elegant dining spaces to innovative eateries pushing the boundaries of modern cuisine, the city offers a multitude of unique dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you are a local food enthusiast or a visitor seeking unforgettable meals, this article will take you on a journey through ten special restaurants in Amsterdam.

Moon

At this revolving restaurant, located on the 19th floor of the A’DAM Tower, you get to enjoy a 360º panoramic view of Amsterdam during a culinary journey. The kitchen is based on pure and typical Dutch ingredients.

Pasta e Basta

Since 1995, Pasta e Basta has been known for its special concept with singing service and Italian cuisine. You can choose between a four or five-course menu, and delicious wines, meanwhile enjoy unforgettable performances by professionally singing waiters. From Italian arias to pop ballads and from jazz to disco.

Hotel de Goudfazant

This is not a hotel, but a trendy restaurant with an industrial interior, housed in a gigantic warehouse in Amsterdam North on the River IJ. In summer they have a terrace with picnic tables on the waterfront.

Mediamatic

This plant-based restaurant and waterside bar is inspired by seasonal vegetables and local ingredients. Their cuisine focuses on creating healthy, sustainable, and environmentally friendly dishes. You can also enjoy your meal in a private glass greenhouse overlooking the water. These greenhouses were created during the corona crisis and were so popular that they remained.

Nela

At Nela they celebrate the union of live fire cooking with high quality and seasonal ingredients. Browse through the comprehensive wine list or take a seat at the spacious cocktail bar in the heart of the restaurant. Nela is situated in the Valley South Tower (Zuidas). With beautiful weather you can have your meal on the outdoor terrace.

Lion Noir

This modern restaurant is situated in a historic building in the heart of Amsterdam, with a wonderful hidden garden and terrace at the back side. Lion Noir offers an internationally inspired cuisine with seasonal menus and a contemporary twist on classics.

REM Eiland

This former pirate radio station on a high platform in the harbor (Houthavens) of Amsterdam houses a unique restaurant. The three floors exist of REM bar, REM restaurant and REM rooftop, all with a wonderful view.

De Belhamel

A restaurant in art nouveau style and with a waterfront terrace, all with views on the canals Brouwersgracht and Herengracht. On the menu are European-French dishes, with a few vegetarian options.

Restaurant De Kas

Since 2001, this chic greenhouse restaurant in Frankendael Park is serving Mediterranean dishes from locally grown organic ingredients. Vegetables take the lead role in their fixed menus. Guests dine in the midst of the glass greenhouse, overlooking the vegetable and herbs garden. De Kas became one of the world’s first farm-to-table restaurants and now it has a green & red Michelin star.

Ctaste

In this restaurant you will be dining in the dark. Visually impaired staff guide you to your table and then serve food and drinks. It is special to experience what it is like to use other senses, without being able to see anything. Just smell, listen and taste.

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Amsterdam is a city that exudes charm and vibrancy year-round, but there is something extra magical about visiting in the winter. With its picturesque canals, festive lights and cozy cafes, Amsterdam transforms into a winter wonderland that offers a memorable experience. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here is a guide to some of the best things to discover in Amsterdam during winter.

Embrace the festive spirit

Amsterdam Light Festival

Running from late November to early January, the Amsterdam Light Festival illuminates the city with stunning light installations created by artists from around the world. Wander through the illuminated streets and canals or take a special boat tour to see the artworks from the water, creating a magical and surreal experience.

Christmas markets

Amsterdam’s Christmas markets are a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up the festive atmosphere. Some popular markets include:

• Ice Village Amsterdam: Located in Museumplein, this market features charming stalls selling holiday treats, crafts, and gifts. The adjacent ice rink adds to the festive fun.
• Funky Xmas Market: Held at the Westergasfabriek, this market offers handmade gifts, delicious food, and live entertainment, making it a perfect spot for some Christmas shopping.

Winter sports and activities

Ice skating

Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity in Amsterdam. Every winter the Dutch are hoping for another frozen winter and the prospect of ice skating on the canals, unfortunately it does not occur every year. But several locations offer picturesque rinks in December and January where you can glide on the ice:

• The large ice rink in front of the Rijksmuseum offers a scenic backdrop, making the square Museumplein a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
• Enjoy ice skating and winter fun in the heart of Amsterdam at the squares Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein. Afterwards, warm up with some glühwein, a hot oliebol, or a sandwich.

Canal cruising

While canal cruises are popular year-round, winter brings a special charm to these tours. Some boats offer heated interiors and blankets, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city’s frosty canals, Christmas decorations and illuminated bridges in comfort.

Indoor attractions

Amsterdam Winter Paradise RAI

During the last weeks of the year, the venue RAI offers a large indoor and outdoor skating rink, Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, cross-country skiing, winter snacks and drinks. In the evening you can celebrate in the Après-Ski Village or at the winter party with various artists.

Royal Concertgebouw

Experience world-class music at the Concertgebouw, renowned for its exceptional acoustics. The holiday season often features classical Christmas concerts and special performances, creating a festive and cultural treat. Tickets can be purchased online.

Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ

The modern building has a small and big hall, with a ceiling, walls and floor panels that are moveable, and unprecedented acoustics. Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ offers concerts of contemporary classical music, jazz and electronic music. Before and after a concert have a drink or a bite at the grand café on the ground floor with a water view over ’t IJ.

Theatre and ballet

Amsterdam’s theatres and ballet companies offer a range of performances during the winter months. At the Dutch National Opera & Ballet you can enjoy enchanting performances such as The Nutcracker, perfect for the holiday season. The venue is housed in the same building as Amsterdam’s City Hall at Waterlooplein.

Museums

Amsterdam’s rich cultural scene is ideal for escaping the winter chill. Some must-visit indoor attractions include:

• Rijksmuseum: Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, the Rijksmuseum offers an extensive collection of Dutch art and history.
• Van Gogh Museum: Explore the life and works of Vincent van Gogh in this dedicated museum housing the largest collection of his art.
• Stedelijk Museum: Enjoy modern and contemporary art of artists such as Marlene Dumas, Jeff Koons, Lichtenstein, Warhol, Picasso and Karel Appel. Tickets are exclusively available online through their website.

Cinemas

Amsterdam’s diverse cinema scene offers something for everyone, whether you are a fan of blockbuster hits, independent films, or classic cinema. Each venue provides its own unique experience, from the historic grandeur of Pathé Tuschinski, the oldest cinema of Amsterdam which is The Movies, to the modern cultural hub of EYE Filmmuseum.

Drinks and food in winter

 Amsterdam’s cozy cafes and restaurants provide the perfect refuge from the cold. Enjoy a hot drink and a slice of traditional Dutch apple pie (‘appeltaart’) or hotchpotch at one of these welcoming spots:

• Café de Jaren: Known for its spacious interiors and beautiful canal views, it is a great place to relax with a hot beverage.
• Winkel 43: Famous for its legendary apple pie, this café at the square Noordermarkt is a must-visit.
• Café ‘t Papeneiland: One of Amsterdam’s oldest cafes, is situated in the Jordaan district. Have a coffee with homemade apple pie or a beer with a Dutch fried snack like ‘bitterballen’.
• Café De Blaffende Vis: This typical brown café, open all day for drinks, snacks and food, has been popular with locals for years.
• Koffie en de Koeck: Fully vegan cakes and patisserie, lunch, afternoon tea, specialty coffee and breakfast. This lovely place is located on the Haarlemmerweg, near Westerpark.
• Moeders (‘mothers’): Since 1990 a well-known restaurant for traditional Dutch food and several Dutch winter specialities such as green pea soup and hotchpotch (mashed potatoes with vegetables served with a sausage and meatball, or the vegetarian version).
• Restaurant Smelt: A cozy cheese fondue restaurant that uses the best French, Dutch and Swiss cheeses from their neighbors: De Kaaskamer van Amsterdam (‘The cheese room of Amsterdam’).
• Meatless District: A popular plant-based restaurant since many years. They serve a shared dining menu, all delicious and flavourful, paired with cocktails if you are up for it.
• The Pancake Bakery: Located in a 17th-century warehouse on one of the main canals, this restaurant serves traditional Dutch favorites and pancakes, hence the name.

Explore winter landscapes

Vondelpark

Amsterdam’s largest park, Vondelpark, turns into a serene winter landscape, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a brisk walk. If you are lucky, you might catch a light snowfall that transforms the park into a winter wonderland. Afterwards have a warm drink at ‘t Blauwe Theehuis or enjoy a delicious all-day brunch at Dignita Vondelpark on the Koninginneweg, near the south park entrance.

Zaanse Schans

Take a short trip to Zaanse Schans, a historic village featuring traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal workshops. The winter setting adds a magical touch to this picturesque location, offering beautiful photo opportunities and a glimpse into Dutch heritage.

Haarlem

Located just a fifteen minutes train ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a picturesque city that offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and modern charm, often referred to as a smaller, more intimate version of Amsterdam. At the heart of Haarlem lies the Grote Markt, a central square surrounded by historic buildings. The impressive St. Bavokerk (St. Bavo’s Church) dominates the square with its gothic architecture. In December downtown Haarlem will be transformed into a Christmas market.

Shopping for winter delights

De 9 Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

Explore the boutiques and specialty shops in the Nine Streets area, situated between the main canals in the city centre, perfect for finding gifts and winter fashion. The picturesque narrow streets are beautifully decorated during the holiday season, adding to the festive shopping experience.

Department stores and shopping centers

Visit iconic department stores like De Bijenkorf on Dam Square, which features elaborate holiday decorations and a wide range of high-end products. The nearby Magna Plaza, housed in a historic building, offers a variety of shops and a festive atmosphere.

Shopping street Utrechtsestraat

In this charming street, which starts on Rembrandtplein, you will find all kinds of shops, restaurants and cafés. During the holidays, the street is decorated with festive lights and beautiful decorations.

Amsterdam in winter is a magical experience, offering a plethora of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. From festive markets and ice skating to world-class museums and cozy cafes, the city provides a perfect blend of cultural enrichment and winter fun. Wrap up warm, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover Amsterdam in winter.

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Making the most of a rainy day in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that thrives in all weather conditions. While the picturesque canals, bustling markets, and vibrant streets are appealing under sunny skies, the city has plenty to offer even when the clouds roll in. Here are some ideas for activities in Amsterdam when the weather turns gloomy.

Explore the museums

Amsterdam is home to a wealth of world-class museums, making it the perfect city for indoor cultural exploration. Dive into Dutch art and history with masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh at the Rijksmuseum. The museum’s vast collections ensure that you will be entertained for hours.

Get inspired by the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works, including famous pieces like “Sunflowers” and “The Bedroom”, at the Van Gogh Museum.

The Stedelijk Museum is the place in Amsterdam to discover and experience modern and contemporary visual art and design. Tickets are exclusively available online through their website.

A visit to the Anne Frank House offers a profound insight into the life of Anne Frank and the history of World War II. Here you can see the Secret Annex where Anne Frank was in hiding for more than two years and where she wrote her diary. The Anne Frank House can only be visited with a ticket bought online for a specific time slot.

For modern and contemporary art lovers, the Moco Museum is a must-visit. Featuring works by Banksy, Andy Warhol, and other contemporary artists, the museum’s innovative displays and interactive exhibits provide a thought-provoking experience.

The KattenKabinet is an art museum dedicated to works featuring cats. The museum’s collection includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other artworks by artists such as Picasso, Rembrandt, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The Cat Art Museum is housed in a canal house at Herengracht 497.

NEMO Science Museum is a fantastic place for both kids and adults. Engage with hands-on exhibits that cover everything from biology and physics to technology and engineering. The museum’s remarkable copper-green building is located near Amsterdam Central Station.

Learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage through interactive exhibits and fascinating displays at the Amsterdam Museum.

Explore a hidden Catholic church dating back to the 17th century, offering an interesting glimpse into Amsterdam’s religious history at Our Lord in the Attic Museum.

The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) offers a journey through the Netherlands’ rich maritime history. Housed in the grand 17th-century arsenal building, the museum features a collection of nautical artifacts. One of the standout exhibits is a full-scale replica of the Dutch East India Company ship ‘Amsterdam’, docked outside the museum.

H’ART Museum (previously The Hermitage) presents temporarily exhibitions with famous works of art from around the world, located in a historical 17th Century building alongside the Amstel River.

Fabrique des Lumières

This digital art center is located in the Westergas, a former gasworks. The cultural venue offers a unique and immersive journey through art using innovative projection technology. The center features large-scale exhibitions that project famous artworks onto the walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a 360-degree visual and auditory experience. Past exhibitions have included works by iconic artists like Vincent van Gogh, Gustav Klimt, and Claude Monet. Fabrique des Lumières transforms classical and contemporary art into a multi-sensory experience. Afterwards have a drink or a bite at one of the many bars and restaurants in the vibrant Westergas area.

Cozy up in a brown café

Amsterdam’s traditional brown cafes are the perfect spots to escape the rain and enjoy some local flavor. These cozy establishments, known for their wooden interiors and warm atmospheres, are great places to sip on a coffee or a local brew with a hot Dutch snack like ‘bitterballen’. Popular brown cafes include Café Lowietje, Lokaal ’t Loosje, Café Sonneveld, Café De Blaffende Vis and Café Gruter.

Café de Sluyswacht has been one of the most beautiful spots on the Jodenbreestraat for years. Originally built in 1692 as a residence for the sluyswacht, the man who operated the adjacent sluice. Historic Amsterdam at its best.

Café ’t Smalle is a gem on Egelantiersgracht with genuine Jordanese charm and a beautiful terrace by the canal. You are welcome from 10 AM for a coffee, sandwich, bitterballen, or of course, a beer and jenever.

Café Hoppe on the Spui is one of Amsterdam’s oldest cafés. They offer snacks, a broad range of Dutch jenevers and a perfectly tapped beer but also breakfast and lunch. Café Hoppe is popular during the Vrijmibo, short for ‘Vrijdagmiddagborrel’ (Friday afternoon drinks). Colleagues celebrate the end of the work week and the start of a well-deserved weekend.

Winkel 43 on the Noordermarkt and Café Papeneiland on Prinsengracht are both famous for their apple pie, often considered the best in Amsterdam. The pie features a thick, buttery crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling, served with a dollop of whipped cream.

Café Bern, a cozy café with a great kitchen located on the square Nieuwmarkt since 1978, is known for its delicious cheese fondue. The Swiss wines perfectly complement the cheese.

De Hallen

Located in the Oud-West neighborhood of Amsterdam, De Hallen is a cultural and culinary hotspot housed in a beautifully renovated former tram depot. This bustling center offers an eclectic mix of attractions, including the Foodhallen, an indoor food market featuring a diverse array of international street food vendors. In addition to its culinary delights, De Hallen is home to another restaurant and bar, boutique shops, a cinema, library, art galleries, and creative workspaces. Whether you are looking to savor gourmet treats, catch an indie film, or explore contemporary art, De Hallen provides a dynamic experience that captures the creative spirit of Amsterdam.

Experience a traditional Dutch pancake and poffertjes

Treat yourself to a delicious Dutch pancake or poffertjes, a fluffy type of small pancakes, cooked in a special poffertjes pan, at one of Amsterdam’s pancake houses. The American pancake is thicker than the Dutch pancake, and the French crêpe is thinner than the Dutch pancake. Pancakes Amsterdam, MOAK Pancakes, The Happy Pig Pancake Shop and The Pancake Bakery are popular spots known for their wide variety of sweet and savory options. Poffertjes are usually served with just butter and powdered sugar.

Visit a tasting house

Amsterdam is a city renowned for its cultural richness and culinary delights. Tasting houses offer an opportunity to sample a variety of local flavors, from traditional Dutch spirits to gourmet cheeses and chocolates.

Established in 1679, Wynand Fockink is one of Amsterdam’s oldest tasting houses. This historic distillery and tasting room offer an authentic experience of traditional Dutch spirits. Sample a variety of jenevers (Dutch gin), liqueurs, and bitters.

The House of Bols, located near the Museumplein, is dedicated to Lucas Bols, the world’s oldest distilled spirit brand. The modern tasting room features custom-made cocktails crafted by expert bartenders.

Reypenaer is a renowned Dutch cheese brand known for its artisanal cheeses aged to perfection. Enjoy guided cheese-tasting sessions that are both educational and delicious.

Tony’s Chocolonely is a Dutch chocolate company committed to fair trade and ethical practices. Their Super Store near Amsterdam Central Station offers an indulgent tasting experience for chocolate enthusiasts. You can also make your own Tony’s Unlimiteds.

Explore a wide selection of jenevers, bitters, and liqueurs at A. van Wees, a family-operated distillery with a rich history dating back to 1782. Located in the Jordaan district, their tasting house provides an authentic Dutch experience.

At Brouwerij Poesiat & Kater Proeflokaal you will find all their beers and specials. The Tasting Room is the ideal place to gather with friends and enjoy delicious home-brewed beer.

Catch a movie

The Eye Film Museum is dedicated to cinematic arts and offers a range of film screenings, from classic movies to contemporary indie films. The museum’s stunning architecture and panoramic views of the IJ River make it a noteworthy visit.

The Movies is a small and cozy cinema on the Haarlemmerdijk, decorated in an Art Deco style, here you can watch art house films, documentaries and the better Hollywood productions.

The iconic Tuschinski Theatre has been named the most beautiful cinema in the world by Time Out magazine. Tuschinski is a wonderful blend of art deco and art nouveau, located nearby the Rembrandtplein.

FC Hyena is a boutique cinema and petit restaurant on the banks of the IJ in Amsterdam North. They screen a wide range of mainstream and independent films. Before or after the movie, you can enjoy a drink, snack, lunch, or dinner.

Indoor activities

At Aloha on De Ruyterkade you will find palm tree-lined bowling lanes and a snack & cocktail menu. All rooms at Aloha follow a theme, such as the “Pirates & The Sea” theme in the glow-in-the-dark mini golf, or the “Underground Bunker” theme in the laser tag arena.

Knijn Bowling on Scheldeplein is the city’s most famous bowling alley, opened in 1971. It has eighteen lanes, and every Friday and Saturday after 11 PM, you can enjoy Disco Bowling.

This is Holland offers a thrilling 5D flight experience that lets you explore the beauty of the Netherlands from a bird’s-eye view. Located in Amsterdam North, near the A’DAM Tower, this attraction takes you on a virtual journey across the cities, countryside and famous windmills. The entire happening consists of four parts: two informative shows about Holland, a 9-minute 5D flying experience and the opportunity to delve deeper into the Holland Lounge.

Amsterdam’s tasting rooms and brown cafes

Amsterdam’s historic heart: The Royal Palace

Does Dutch cuisine exist?

Some food is famous worldwide, like pizza and pasta, and often we get the question: what is typical Dutch food? Traditionally, Dutch cuisine is simple with vegetables, potatoes and meat or fish. Nowadays, mostly thanks to all the different nationalities in the Netherlands, we eat more cosmopolitan and 'exotic'. Italian and Asian food is especially popular, but our cuisine has been also influenced by the former Dutch colony of Indonesia. The Dutch even eat their French fries with peanut sauce! Or with a combination of mayonnaise and peanut sauce, called ‘patatje oorlog’ (French fries war). Some Indonesian food is so integrated into the Netherlands that a lot of people see nasi, bami and peanut sauce/satay sauce as typical Dutch food.

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Taste of Amsterdam

Sample fine cuisine, learn from the pros, and browse the food exhibition at Taste of Amsterdam. This tasty al fresco event is on for 2014 from 15 to 18 May at Amstelpark which is near many of our Amsterdam apartments.

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National Restaurant Week in Amsterdam – eat more for less!

It’s not a secret that every special treat is available for a special price, and if you’re a foodie, you’re probably aware of that more than anyone else. However, DiningCity, a restaurant review website, came up with a fantastic initiative to make it much more wallet-friendly for you to make the most of your culinary experience of Amsterdam – prepare your palate for the National Restaurant Week!

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Fine Dining: Amsterdam’s Top 5 Most Exclusive Restaurants

Whilst not specifically renowned for its culinary prowess, the Netherlands' capital hosts a myriad of dining venues to whet the appetite and satisfy the taste buds, from cosy cafés to Michelin starred restaurants. The following selection focuses on the city's elite gastronomic hotspots, offering five inimitable establishments easily reachable from your Amsterdam apartment, ideal for an unforgettable Dutch experience.

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New herring – a thing to go for while in Amsterdam

For more than 600 years Holland has been a prominent consumer of herring – preferable and predominantly raw. If you are planning a short stay in Amsterdam, try to arrange it for the beginning of June to get the best of the best of ‘Hollandse Nieuwe’ – ‘new herring’.

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Gettin’ “cheesy” with it – a guide for all the foodies looking for a legen-dairy experience in Amsterdam

If you’re well-familiar with names like Edam, Gouda or Maasdam, and if terms like Mimolette, Maaslander or Leerdammer do ring more than a bell, then you’re in the right place to be delighted. The short list below contains some of the most worthy places to visit if you don’t want to become cheesed off by your stay in Amsterdam.

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