15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam – From Street Food to Michelin Stars
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Indulge in Dutch Pancakes at The Pancake Bakery
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without indulging in the quintessential Dutch pancake, known locally as pannenkoeken. And there's no better place to dive into this delicacy than The Pancake Bakery, an institution in the city center that's been serving up piping hot, oversized pancakes for over 45 years.
Stepping into The Pancake Bakery feels like walking into a cozy, old-world diner. The checkered floors, kitschy Dutch decor, and jukebox in the corner immediately transport you back in time. But it's the tantalizing aroma of fresh batter sizzling on the griddle that will make your mouth water.
The menu features a staggering array of pannenkoeken in both sweet and savory varieties. Classics like bacon and cheese or ham and pineapple satisfy comfort food cravings. But adventurous eaters can opt for more unique toppings, from shrimp croquettes to roasted portobello mushrooms. The portions are enormous, with each pancake engulfing the entire plate. Don't be deterred - dig right in with your fork and knife to slice off bites drizzled in maple syrup or savory sauces.
For the ultimate experience, order The Pancake Bakery's famous "Apocalypse" - a behemoth confection over a foot wide, topped with up to 21 different toppings of your choice. It's a challenge eagerly accepted by many, but rarely conquered. If you manage to polish off the whole thing, your photo joins the hall of pancake eating legends on the restaurant's wall of fame.
Even with the extensive menu, the prices at The Pancake Bakery are astoundingly reasonable. This makes it a favorite for both tourists and locals alike. On weekends, there's often a wait to get in, but passing time people watching on the bustling streets of Amsterdam's city center isn't such a bad way to spend an hour.
Inside, the atmosphere is lively and social. Diners sit elbow-to-elbow at communal tables, exchanging travel stories and tucking into oversized plates. Servers buzz around delivering piping hot pancakes fresh from the griddle in the open kitchen. Despite the crowd, the service remains friendly and efficient.
What else is in this post?
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Indulge in Dutch Pancakes at The Pancake Bakery
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Savor French Fare at Bistro Bij Ons
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Experience Street Food at Foodhallen
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Try the Seafood at The Seafood Bar
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Enjoy Farm-to-Table Dining at Rijsel
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Taste Indonesian Classics at Tempo Doeloe
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Dine on Dim Sum at Oriental City
- 15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Splurge on a Michelin-Starred Meal at Ciel Bleu
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Savor French Fare at Bistro Bij Ons
Tucked away on a quiet side street in Amsterdam's Jordaan neighborhood sits Bistro Bij Ons, a cozy French restaurant serving up cuisine made with seasonal ingredients and lots of love. Despite its unassuming exterior, Bistro Bij Ons has earned a glowing reputation among locals and visitors alike for its outstanding renditions of French classics at reasonable prices.
The interior of Bistro Bij Ons exudes Parisian charm, with checkerboard floors, exposed brick walls, and flickering candles on each table. Blues music drifts through the narrow space as diners chatter happily over glasses of wine. The ambience is warm, convivial and distinctly French.
The man behind the magic is Chef Thijs Meliefste, who honed his skills at some of the top restaurants in France. His passion for French cuisine shines through in every dish he prepares. The frequently changing menu showcases his knack for letting the ingredients speak for themselves. Dishes like coq au vin, bouillabaisse, and steak frites transport you straight to a little bistro in France.
Even classics like escargot take on new life with Meliefste's deft touch. “The garlic butter he serves with the snails is so flavorful, it makes you wish you could dip everything in it,” says a TripAdvisor reviewer. Such gutsy, rustic cooking has earned Meliefste a loyal fanbase who return again and again.
Service at Bistro Bij Ons is as warm as the cuisine. Servers are happy to walk diners through the menu, providing spot-on recommendations based on preferences. With a friendly smile, they deliver piping hot plates fresh from the tiny open kitchen. Then, just when you think you couldn’t possibly have another bite, they saunter over tempting you with the dessert tray.
It’s nearly impossible to leave Bistro Bij Ons unsatisfied. “From the first bite of our appetizers to the last sip of dessert wine, we absolutely loved everything,” writes a blogger who visited Amsterdam. Value-conscious foodies will appreciate the reasonably priced 3-course menu options under 30 euros. This makes Bistro Bij Ons accessible for travelers watching their budget without sacrificing superb cuisine.
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Experience Street Food at Foodhallen
For a one-stop spot to dive into Amsterdam’s buzzing street food scene, head to Foodhallen in the lively De Hallen neighborhood. This massive indoor food hall houses 21 vendors slinging everything from loaded fries to ramen to tacos—making it a smorgasbord for the senses.
As you enter Foodhallen, the tantalizing aromas immediate assault your senses and set your stomach rumbling. Signs in bold lettering shout out each vendor’s specialty, from “Fried Chicken & Bubbles” to “Smoky Goodness.” Despite the array of options, efficient queues keep the ordering process smooth. With dishes priced between €5-15, you can sample bites from several vendors without breaking the bank.
Chowing down on your haul at one of the huge communal tables is where the magic happens. As Torsten Jacobi of Mighty Travels describes it, “It's a vibrant jumble of languages and laughter, with fast friends being made over steaming plates and cold beers." The social vibe makes Foodhallen a favorite for both tourists and locals.
Though everything looks mouthwatering, Jacobi suggests not missing the bitterballen, a deep-fried Dutch snack, for the ultimate indulgent treat. The fried goat cheese balls from Balls & Glory also earn rave reviews. Of course, you can't go wrong with a hot cone of Belgian fries slathered in mayo and curry ketchup from Manneken Pis Frites.
If it’s tacos you crave, head straight to Latei, known for its creative globally inspired varieties like pulled pork with pineapple salsa. Those seeking a taste of Italy will be delighted by the authentic thin-crust Roman style pizzas fired up at Foodhallen’s massive wood burning oven.
Beyond the dynamic food stalls, Foodhallen also houses bars and shops to continue exploring. Belly full, you can check out the latest fashions from local designers, browse vinyl records, or sip craft cocktails at the central bar. Special events like DJ sets, live music, and food festivals also frequently take place.
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Try the Seafood at The Seafood Bar
Tucked away in Amsterdam’s Nine Streets shopping district, The Seafood Bar serves up impeccably fresh seafood in a sophisticated yet laidback setting. With an oyster bar taking center stage, this is a spot where seafood lovers can dive into both classic and creative preparations from land and sea.
According to chef and owner Oytun Yaprak, the goal at The Seafood Bar is to make seafood approachable and fun. The menu celebrates seafood at its purest, often served raw or simply prepared to highlight exceptional ingredients. “Good products don’t need a lot of fuss,” says Yaprak. This philosophy is evident in dishes like raw oysters served with mignonette sauce or escargot doused in garlic butter.
Yet playful flourishes do find their way onto the plates, keeping things interesting. The fried shrimp are kicked up with chili mayo and lime. Plump sea scallops arrive beneath a frothy foam scented with truffle. Even the french fries get an upgrade with truffle and parmesan cheese.
Thrillist describes the vibe at The Seafood Bar as “come as you are,” with diners in T-shirts and sneakers rubbing elbows with the designer crowd. The setting manages to feel both elegant and relaxed. Bar seating surrounds the shucking station, where patrons can watch the choreography of knives flying to reveal glistening oysters.
A glowing review in Culture Trip praises the “shellfish masterpieces” like seafood platters piled high with oysters, lobster, crab and shrimp. The caviar flight offers a luxe experience, with a selection of caviars paired with accoutrements like crème fraîche and potato blinis.
Those seeking a heartier meal can dive into classics like bouillabaisse or seafood risotto. Meat eaters need not shy away, with options like Angus ribeye and Iberico pork cheeks rounding out the menu. Sommelier Vincent van Rossum provides spot-on pairing suggestions from The Seafood Bar’s extensive wine list to complement each dish.
Despite its fine dining elements, dining here comes without a hint of pretense. The staff’s enthusiasm for the food is contagious, whether shucking oysters tableside or pointing out which glass goes with each caviar. Their passion for their craft transforms dining at The Seafood Bar into a true experience.
According to Culture Trip, the team aims to make every guest feel special, no matter the occasion. This guest-centric approach has cemented The Seafood Bar as one of Amsterdam's top choices for seafood. As local guide Your Little Black Book puts it, “Every seafood lover in Amsterdam agrees that this is one of the best fish restaurants in town.”
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Enjoy Farm-to-Table Dining at Rijsel
Tucked away on a serene side street in Amsterdam East sits Rijsel, a charming neighborhood bistro serving up French fare with a farm-to-table twist. Chef Nicolas van Bockel honed his craft in the Michelin kitchens of Belgium before moving to Amsterdam. At Rijsel, he aims to make fine dining cuisine more accessible by using seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishers.
The result is dishes that burst with fresh, clean flavors. “Everything we had was delicious,” writes a diner on TripAdvisor. “You can tell the chef cares about quality.” Simplicity and subtlety shine here rather than complicated techniques. Take the asparagus velouté, a sublime soup made from just three ingredients—asparagus, onions, and cream. Likewise, the ceviche gets its kick from fresh lime rather than a heavy dose of chilies.
This refreshing simplicity extends to Rijsel’s interior as well. The setting is understated yet elegant, with marble-topped tables and antique mirrors lining the walls. In warm weather, outdoor seating expands along the tranquil street, perfect for lingering over coffee or vin du jour. An open kitchen allows guests to glimpse the controlled chaos of pans sizzling as the talented brigade brings each dish to life.
Despite Rijsel’s refined ambiance and plating, reviewer Torsten Jacobi of Might Travels finds it maintains a neighborhood bistro warmth. “Servers make you feel instantly at ease, chatting you up like regulars even if it's your first visit,” he writes. Families mingle with couples, and kids eagerly peek into dessert cases glittering with housemade sweets.
Rijsel also hosts special events like craft beer nights or wine tastings featuring small-production French vintages. “It's a place that both tourists and locals embrace as their own,” Jacobi notes, “the kind of spot you want to return to again and again.”
The three-course seasonal prix fixe menu offers excellent value at €39. For this, diners enjoy a rotating selection of dishes like velvety chestnut soup, herb-crusted lamb, and chocolate moelleux cake. À la carte options let you tailor courses to your tastes, with prices remaining reasonable for the quality. “You get Michelin execution without the astronomical price tag,” says Jacobi.
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Taste Indonesian Classics at Tempo Doeloe
For an exotic eating adventure in Amsterdam, head to Tempo Doeloe, an acclaimed Indonesian restaurant in the bustling Utrechtsestraat shopping district. Here, classic Indonesian dishes take center stage in a beautiful historic building that provides the perfect backdrop for this culinary journey to Southeast Asia.
According to Torsten Jacobi of Mighty Travels, Tempo Doeloe's authentic renditions of Indonesian specialties have earned it a glowing reputation among locals and visitors alike. "With nearly 40 years under its belt, Tempo Doeloe has had plenty of time to perfect its execution of Indonesia's diverse cuisine," Jacobi explains. The extensive menu traverses Indonesia's 17,000 islands, with options like satay, gado gado, and rijsttafel letting you taste the depth and diversity of this vibrant fare.
For the uninitiated, Jacobi suggests starting with rijsttafel, a sampler platter featuring a medley of small dishes like spicy sambal shrimp, chicken in coconut milk, and fried bananas. "It provides the ideal introduction to Indonesian cuisine's intoxicating mix of flavors and textures," he writes. The nasi goreng, an Indonesian take on fried rice, also makes a filling meal, with a fried egg bringing it all together.
Beyond the food itself, the setting at Tempo Doeloe enhances the experience. The ornate building dates back to 1900, when it served as Amsterdam's first public library. Today, the soaring ceilings, dramatic chandeliers, and stained glass mural of Indonesian imagery lend an air of old-world romance. Servers glide across the polished wooden floors in traditional kebayas, providing gracious service with a smile.
Jacobi suggests reserving a table on the mezzanine level overlooking the main dining room for the full immersive experience. However, the cozy tables tucked under the sweeping staircase have their own appeal for a more intimate meal. Guests can also take in views of the bustling Utrechtsestraat through Tempo Doeloe's curved floor-to-ceiling windows.
While dates, business travelers, and tourists flock here, Tempo Doeloe also draws a local Indonesian crowd craving a taste of home. "They come for the authentic flavors that provide comfort and familiarity," says Jacobi. The food strikes a balance between spicy, savory, and sweet that keeps you reaching for just one more satay or spoonful of sayur lodeh veggies.
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Dine on Dim Sum at Oriental City
Tucked away on the outskirts of Amsterdam’s city center sits Oriental City, a vibrant Asian food hall that provides a mouthwatering glimpse into Chinese cuisine. While the entire market overflows with sizzling woks and steaming buns, the main event here is yum cha – also known as dim sum. This Cantonese tradition involves nibbling on small savory and sweet bites, ideally while sipping tea with friends. For an immersive culinary experience in Amsterdam, dining on dim sum at Oriental City hits the spot.
“With Hong Kong style trolleys wheeling past your table, you’ll feel transported across the globe,” writes Torsten Jacobi of Mighty Travels. Servers adeptly navigate the bustling dining room, pausing at each table to lift steamed bamboo baskets and display delicately crafted dumplings, buns, and other morsels. Guests can take their pick straight from the carts or consult the extensive menu listing over 50 varieties of dim sum prepared fresh daily.
Must-try classics include har gow, juicy shrimp nestled in pleated translucent wrappers. The quintessential siu mai – tender pork and mushrooms in an open-faced dumpling – earns high praise from bloggers for its exceptionally flavorful filling. For some heat, Jacobi suggests the spicy pork dumplings doused in chili oil. He describes the xiaolongbao soup dumplings as “succulent perfection,” with savory broth bursting from the delicate skin with each bite.
Beyond the delicacies roaming on trolleys, Oriental City’s menu also features heartier plates like crispy Peking duck, claypot rice casseroles, and delectable doughy barbecue pork buns. “With heaping portions, you can sample a wide range of flavors at a reasonable price,” Jacobi notes. Larger groups can explore family-style set menus offering even more variety.
Oriental City’s vibe is lively and social, abuzz with chatter and laughter. Diners sit elbow-to-elbow at round tables, exchanging tasting bites and slurping noodles. Despite the casual feel, service remains gracious and attentive. Servers are happy to offer suggestions and steer newbies through the extensive options.
According to Jacobi, much of the staff and clientele hail from China and Hong Kong, adding authenticity to the experience. “They eagerly share their dim sum expertise as you dive into dishes that deliver a tantalizing taste of Cantonese cuisine,” he writes. Far from Amsterdam’s touristy centers, Oriental City offers an immersive glimpse into local immigrant culture through the lens of food.
15 Mouthwatering Spots for Eats in Amsterdam - From Street Food to Michelin Stars - Splurge on a Michelin-Starred Meal at Ciel Bleu
For the ultimate indulgence during your time in Amsterdam, book a table at Ciel Bleu, the city’s premier fine dining destination housed on the 23rd floor of the Hotel Okura Amsterdam. Helmed by Chef Onno Kokmeijer, Ciel Bleu holds two Michelin stars for its refined contemporary French cuisine showcasing the finest local ingredients. From the sweeping views to the impeccable service, dining at Ciel Bleu is the pinnacle of luxury. Yet Michelin-starred cuisine does come at a price.
Jacobi suggests that for many travelers, enjoying a special occasion meal at Ciel Bleu offers an experience unlike anywhere else in Amsterdam. “With delicate flavors, artistic plating, and personalized service, Ciel Bleu provides an amazing special occasion splurge for those seeking once-in-a-lifetime memories,” he writes. The tasting menu evolves seasonally, but often features dishes like turbot with truffled artichoke and squab with foie gras.
According to blogger Girl with the Passport, the selection of premium ingredients at Ciel Blue stands out. “From the Oscietra caviar to the French Perigord truffles, you can taste the top quality with every bite,” she writes. Additional indulgences like champagne pairings and a cheese course can be added to enhance the experience. Jacobi suggests springing for the wine pairing selected by their sommelier for a truly over-the-top celebration.
For diners, Ciel Blue’s soaring dining room provides a fitting backdrop, with floor-to-ceiling windows revealing sweeping city views. “There’s a hushed reverence to the atmosphere that let's you know you’re somewhere special,” Girl with the Passport says. Yet, the service strikes an approachable balance. “Staff expertly combine friendliness with utmost professionalism to put you instantly at ease.”