The Best Restaurants in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city of delicious food, incredible people, and beautiful architecture. Why did no one tell me that this is the real Venice? Actually, it is so much better than Venice because it isn’t as touristy. There is an endless supply of bridges hanging over beautiful canals. There are numerous Michelin restaurants, but many great finds are not on their list. This guide is meant to be a no-brainer list of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to hit (no, not that kind of coffeeshop!). Included are Google reviews as well as my score. I rate restaurants like I rate my wine on a scale of 100. 90 and above means it is definitely worth going to. I haven’t included anything that isn’t at least 90 points because those spots aren’t worth it. 100 points means the greatest in the world in my book. I am someone who loves all cuisine but is discerning with my meals. I want high-quality service, an all-star wine list, and beautifully prepared food with quality ingredients. If you are into the same things, my scores may be relevant to you! Now, go explore Amsterdam and make some reservations.

Restaurants

Bistro de la Mer - Google 4.3/5, Michelin ⭐, 94 points.

This is a seafood paradise. The whole place is basically a long bar. You get a perfect view of the kitchen. Some of the bangers included the oysters, carbonara, and the Turbot served on its bone (this was insane). Also, don’t skip the crab dish, which essentially won them their Michelin star. There is a great selection of White Burgundy, so obviously, I was in heaven. We got a Saint Aubin premiere cru which definitely paired well with everything.

Bakkerij Wolf, Google 4.6/5, 90 points.

This is a cute little bakery serving up insanely good croissants. It is located near Chun so it may be worth a stop for a coffee and a snack while you wait in line.

Restaurant De Kas, Google 4.7/5, Michelin ⭐, 92 points.

This place is quite the hike from downtown, but it is worth it. You can also take a taxi or hop on the train. The restaurant is essentially a converted greenhouse, and it is beautiful. They serve a vegetable-focused menu with a few seafood dishes. Everything is presented in a creative way. The starters were really unique and delicious. It is a Michelin-starred tasting menu, and it is well deserved. If you are in the mood for a three to four-hour dinner, go here. Enjoy the extensive wine list.

Fable Friet, Google 4.6/5, 93 points

Who doesn’t love a pile of perfectly fried frites and some incredible house-made sauces? Honestly, fries are my love language. Or is it aioli… I’m not sure. Regardless, go here and wait in line; it moves fast. Maybe after a few beers.

Chun, Google 4.3/5, 90 points.

I love milk bread, and somehow, this place has come up with a novel way to serve it. They basically take a big chunk of Japanese milk bread, slice it down the middle, and stuff it with savory ingredients. We split the bacon, egg, and cheese and the bulgogi beef, which were incredible. The line does take about an hour, but it is well worth it! Go for a late breakfast or early lunch.

Sinck, Google 4.7/5, Michelin Guide, 95 points.

Sit. at. the. bar. Just do it. You get an amazing view of the kitchen and get to ping the chefs with questions all night. Ask them for their favorite dishes! This was one of my favorite meals in Amsterdam. From the wine menu to the kitchen view, they delivered in all aspects. The sommelier was so knowledgeable. He was able to guide me through a wine selection and knew about each bottle, including info on the winemaker and tasting notes. This is quite impressive, given the size of their list. The pork cheeks were mind-blowing.

Calisto, Google 4.5/5

This is the spot to go if you don’t have any reservations, as it is walk-in only. Get there early and put your name on the list. They assign you a time to come back, which is convenient. It gives you just enough time to explore some of the surrounding bars. Ask for the reserve wine list and order lots of pasta. You will leave happy! 91 points.

Wine

Cafe de Klepel, Google 4.7/5, 96 points.

This has to be the cutest wine bar I’ve ever seen. Champagne by the glass, old white wine, and damn good Burgundy… need I say more? They take dinner reservations, but the move is to stop in before dinner. They open up for wine and snacks before their dinner service, so be sure to check in with them before stopping in to make sure there is room. The cheese and charcuterie selection was well-sourced and really hit the spot. The service was awesome. Stop thinking about it; just go.

Bar Parry, Google 4.6/5, 96 points.

Maybe the coziest bar around. This spot is super small, but it feels so comfortable. The wine list is written on a mirror on the wall. They have Meursault by the glass - I could just stop there. I am just such a sucker for White Burg, and it is SO rare to see Meursault by the glass. There is a massive block of soft butter on the counter that they take big swaths of to pair with delicious sourdough. Order the cheese. It isn’t a fussy board. It is some sort of aged local cheese that pairs with all of the wines. They also let you try samples of multiple wines before you choose so you will definitely find something you like!

Coffee

Lot 61, Google 4.6/5, 91 points.

Hummingbird, Google 4.7/5, 90 points.

Great staff. Good coffee. Right downtown. Again, order a cortado, and you will be happy!