My Favorite Restaurants in Amsterdam – A Personal Foodie Guide

I’ve lived many versions of myself in Amsterdam.

I studied here once, wide-eyed and endlessly curious. Today, I work here as a photographer — often long days, often on my feet, and often ending in a quiet moment with a glass of wine and something comforting on a plate.

This city has held me through a lot. I’ve fallen in love here. And out of love. I’ve been taken out to beautiful restaurants on dates that made me blush. I’ve taken my friends out on our own little “date nights” — just to celebrate life. And there have been nights when I treated myself — exhausted after a shoot — to something delicious, because no one else needed to be there for it to be special.

This guide isn’t about the trendiest or most photographed places. It's about the places that feel like little stories to me — moments, really — where good food met real life. Places I return to when I want something familiar, or when I want to feel something new.

If you’re in Amsterdam, maybe for a weekend or maybe for a season, I hope you find your own favorites among mine.

De Juwelier

If you're looking for an elegant dining experience, De Juwelier is a sparkling gem. Perfect for special occasions, this restaurant blends luxurious flavors with a relaxed atmosphere. So aesthetic!

De Willem

A cozy, unpretentious restaurant where the focus is simply on good food and good people. De Willem feels like your favorite local spot — one you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Utage Sake Bar

Craving a modern Japanese izakaya experience? Utage Sake Bar is a must. It’s small, intimate, and every dish is a work of art, paired beautifully with their curated sake selection.

Over-Amstel Boerderij

Imagine a rustic farm experience — right in Amsterdam. Over-Amstel Boerderij brings the countryside into the city with farm-to-table dishes that feel incredibly fresh and full of life. Go on a beautiful, sunny day and use it a s apit-stop; combine it with other destinations.

Addis Ababa

For something different, I love the vibrant, colorful dishes at Addis Ababa, a cozy Ethiopian restaurant full of heart and flavor. Sharing platters here feels like a true celebration.

Belly Pepper

If you love brunch as much as I do, don’t miss Belly Pepper. Their Turkish breakfast with a creative twist will surprise and delight your taste buds — every plate feels like a piece of art.

De Sluyswacht

A classic Amsterdam café with historic charm. De Sluyswacht is the perfect place for a cozy coffee, a creamy hot chocolate, or a relaxed lunch while watching the boats float by.

Brio

Tiny, intimate, and bursting with atmosphere — Brio is one of those places where every detail feels right, from the wine list to the flickering candlelight.

Ventuno Skylounge

Want a breathtaking view with your dinner? Ventuno Skylounge combines elegant dining with sweeping city views. It’s one of my saved spots -- I havent been there yet though.

Fruittuin van West

When I crave a slower, nature-filled escape, Fruittuin van West — a working organic farm — is my go-to. It's a place where you can pick your own fruit, grab a coffee, and feel truly grounded.

Zoldering

One of Amsterdam’s rising stars, Zoldering combines fine dining with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It’s refined but never stiff — perfect for a long, leisurely dinner with friends.

Café Binnenvisser

Ahhhh this place in my former neighborhood. If you love a buzzing atmosphere, seasonal dishes, and natural wines, Café Binnenvisser will steal your heart. It's one of those places where you feel the pulse of the city in every bite.

De Gouden Reael

A true treasure and might be my most favorite: De Gouden Reael is among my absolute favorite restaurants in Amsterdam. With cozy vibes, a waterfront view, and sensational dishes, it's pure magic — especially in winter.

More Amsterdam Favorites You Should Try

Here’s a quick look at other gems on my list (each one with its own special charm):

• Williams Farmhouse (Special occasion dining)

• Cafe Tepoz (Relaxed café vibes)

• Schuurmanoomkensgrassotti (Work-friendly café with great coffee)

• Duende Dos (Spanish tapas heaven)

• Pat's Poffertjes (Best traditional poffertjes)

• Stacks Diner (Classic American-style diner)

• Goreme Lunchroom (Turkish soul food)

• Kailash Parbat (Indian street food must-try)

• Uncommon Cafe (Aesthetic "Aussie" brunch spot)

• Nieuwe Diep Distillery (Hidden gem for drinks)

• Cantina - Het Rijk van de Keizer (Beautiful, remote hideaway)

• Miu (All-you-can-eat Asian with good vibes)

• Ashoka for Indiannnnn sooooo gooood

• And for drinks? Always Arie <3

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... and so many more! Check my Instagram for more weekly tips in my stories.

I believe the best experiences are often found off the beaten path — places that feel personal, cozy, and full of soul. And that’s exactly what all these spots have in common. Enjoyy! Share your experiences in the comments -- I am curious!