Amsterdam is a melting pot of different cultures, and its food scene is no different. When it comes to the best restaurants in Amsterdam you’ll be spoilt for choice in 2021, as the variety of cuisines range from local cheap eats to romantic spots with a view. Serving up delicious food inside quirky interiors with a laid back atmosphere, a lot of the best places to eat in Amsterdam are actually really quite affordable. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger or steak, a traditional Neapolitan pizza, Chinese noodles or a spicy beef rendang at one of the city’s many Indonesian restaurants, you won’t leave Amsterdam without feeling indulged. Check out these top ‘Dam eateries to get your foodie fix.
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Best burgers in Amsterdam
1. Belushi’s
Warmoesstraat 129, 1012 JA, a 1 minute walk from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Just a minute’s walk away from Dam Square you’ll find this quirky rock ‘n’ roll style bar and restaurant serving up the juiciest burgers in Amsterdam. Belushi’s Bars are part of the St Christopher’s Inns network, so while this might be a cheeky promo, it definitely stills serves some of the juiciest burgers in the city! Belushi’s Amsterdam has recently had a refurbishment so it’s looking cool and fresh. Their menu offers a huge range of beef, chicken or vegan burgers, each stacked high with all the toppings you can think of with a heap of fries alongside. If a burger isn’t quite what you fancy, their wraps and bar snacks also go down a treat. Everything served up at Belushi’s is homemade and sourced locally from sustainable suppliers wherever possible.
Our local Amsterdam expert and Marketing Manager, Keith, said he loves the rock ‘n roll vibe at Belushi’s. He said:
“We might be biased, but the burgers at Belushi’s really are epic. Plus the bar is one of the latest to stay open in the city centre so you can kick on there until late.”
2. Ter Marsch & Co
Vijzelstraat 4, 1017 HK, a 3 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Top quality beef served medium rare with a side of hand cut fries, Ter Marsch & Co is a must stop for the burger-obsessed amongst you. Just a two minute stroll from Bloemenmarkt (the world’s first ever floating flower market), you’ll be drawn in by the bright and creative decoration, but this place isn’t just a pretty face. Ter Marsch & Co’s wagyu and pulled pork burger won ‘best hamburger in the Netherlands’ in 2020. Their sustainable ethos, Instagrammable interiors and absolutely delicious burgers are what make this place a local favourite, so pop in for lunch or dinner for a flavour explosion. They even serve burgers in bao buns!
3. Burgermeester
Three locations in Centrum, Artis and Jordaan
The burgers are so good here that they made three restaurants. The extravagant menu at Burgermeester in Centrum, Artis and Jordaan is a real winner, serving up some of the best burgers in Amsterdam made from top quality beef and all made by hand. The Cheese Deluxe always goes down a treat, topped with cheddar cheese, jalapeños, pancetta, beer onions and harissa mayonnaise, one of their many mayo variations. Order with a side of truffle fries (handmade from fresh potatoes) and you’re set for a seriously satisfying lunch out in a laid back, no frills restaurant in Amsterdam.
Best pizzas in Amsterdam
1. Dope
Eerste van der Helststraat 66, 1072 NZ, a 9 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Over in De Pijp is another of the best pizza places in Amsterdam, recommended by everyone from one stop visitors to weekly regulars. If you’ve ever been to Italy, you’ll be transported straight back at the first bite of a Dope pizza. The doughy base covered in fresh tomato sauce and Italian ingredients is classic Neapolitan style, giving the restaurant a mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked bread. Dope is a great spot for vegans and vegetarians, too, serving a heavenly tasting (and beautiful looking) pizza called ‘Flower Blossom’ topped off with courgette flowers and a truffle oil drizzle, all cooked up in a wood fired pizza oven.
2. Mama Dough
Beukenplein 21, 1092 BB, an 11 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
A soft doughy base, fresh tomato sauce and all the great Italian ingredients you’d want on top, if you’re on the hunt for a 5 star pizza in Amsterdam then make sure you pay Mama Dough a visit. This pizzeria is located right near Oosterpark, so a little off the tourist track, and with its heated outdoor terrace and great soundtrack the atmosphere is always buzzing. Mama Dough offers a pretty extensive list of pizzas, and the variety for veggie and vegans are some of the best options on the menu. Feeling indulgent? You’ve got to try the burrata pizza, otherwise opt for a fresh veggie packed topping, or go for the spicy salami.
St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam General Manager, Vera, said:
“The pizzas here are damn tasty and the music and atmosphere are on point, plus their terrace is ideal for the sunny days. Then once you feel like moving on, there are plenty of other venues located on the same square to bar hop to.”
3. La Perla Pizzeria
Tweede Tuindwarsstraat 53, 1015 RZ, a 7 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Amsterdam
Located on a sweet little street in Jordaan is this charming pizzeria called La Perla. We all know that there’s no pizza better than a wood-fired one, so of course that’s just how it’s done here. La Perla Pizzeria prides itself on quality Italian ingredients in a no-frills setting, so here it’s all about the food. This cosy place always has a lovely atmosphere and is constantly full of locals, so make sure you book a table in advance. Order a simple margherita pizza and a glass of house wine before a romantic evening stroll around the Jordaan neighbourhood.
Best steak in Amsterdam
1. Black & Blue
Leliegracht 46, 1015 DH, a 6 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
For the best affordable steak in Amsterdam, visit Black & Blue in the charming Jordaan neighbourhood. Book your table in advance for a steak that’s cooked to perfection along with some great wine and a buzzing atmosphere. While the steaks are amazing, the starters and sides are also well worth a mention as the entire menu is simply delicious - the chorizo and scallop starter being an exceptional dish. If you’re after an affordable steak dinner that’s also top of the range, Black & Blue steakhouse is a must-try.
2. De Royal Chophouse
Amstelveenseweg 128, 1075 XL, a 16 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Head to De Royal Chophouse for a tender, fresh and flavourful steak that’s cooked exactly how you like it. Located right by Vondelpark, the staff at this laidback Amsterdam steakhouse are just wonderful. They’re always so welcoming and willing to help you choose a steak based on their extensive knowledge, therefore providing the kind of service that lifts the ambiance of the restaurant and gives it a happy, friendly feel. Here, you have the choice of Dutch steak, Argentinian steak, Wagyu steak and way more, but the prices are all super affordable for such quality cuts of meat. Order your steak with a side of fries, grilled mushrooms and a generous pour of their creamy peppercorn sauce for a delicious meal out.
3. TDQ Steaks
Spuistraat 3C-D, 1012 SP, a 3 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Once you’ve tasted a steak from TDQ, you’ll agree that it had to get a mention as one of the best steakhouses in the city. This cosy restaurant near Amsterdam Centraal station is the perfect casual date spot as it serves up amazing food in a comfortable, romantic setting. Plus the steaks are really quite affordable. Take your pick from their extensive steak list or opt for their steak tasting menu which gets you as many of their tender fillets as you’d like from around the world.
Best Italian restaurants in Amsterdam
1. Koevoet
Lindenstraat 17, 1015 KV, a 6 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Serving simple yet incredibly tasty and authentic Italian food in the heart of Amsterdam is the hidden gem that is Koevoet. Tucked away in the back of this small restaurant in their traditional Italian kitchen, where the chefs put together the most beautiful plates of antipasti, meat and fish dishes as well as a number of pasta dishes. You can tell that the inside has been kept the same for years. The owner decided to keep the traditional design when he bought the place 10 years ago, as the Koevoet family before him lived there for 100 years. While it’s all very simple food inside a traditional setting, you must visit Koevoet if you’re on the hunt for real, authentic Italian food in Amsterdam.
2. Spaghetteria
Various locations across Amsterdam
Get your pasta fix at one of the seven Spaghetteria restaurants across Amsterdam where all that’s on the main menu is, of course, pasta. Their menu changes daily to ensure all ingredients are in season and sourced sustainably to bring out all the best flavours in their freshly made pasta. Whether you fancy something simple and traditional or more rich and extravagant, as long as it’s pasta you feel like eating then these eateries will really hit the spot. Their vegan and gluten-free pasta range is always well thought out, too. Top off your meal with a bowl of their traditionally made tiramisu and go back home feeling full and satisfied.
3. Primi
Van der Hoopstraat 96 H Angolo, 1051 VL, an 11 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Another top spot for real Italian food in Amsterdam is this contemporary restaurant in Westerpark. Just like all the best Italian restaurants, Primi serves its food with simple ingredients but with perfect presentation. Get your selection of antipasti, a big plate of freshly made pasta or the fish of the day along with a glass of Italian wine or a cocktail. One of the owners of Primi is Sicilian, so aspects of the food on the menu reflect his background and the great culinary traditions from the Italian island. You’ll feel relaxed and satisfied dining out at this intimate, romantic Amsterdam restaurant, and while prices are a little bit higher here, don’t wait for a special occasion to come round to book a table.
Best Indonesian restaurants in Amsterdam
1. Indrapura
Rembrandtplein 40, 1017 CV, a 4 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Something not many tourists know is that Indonesian food is a major cuisine all over the Netherlands due to the two countries’ colonial history. A way in which the Dutch have put their own twist on Indonesian cuisine is by creating a rijsttafel: literally translated as a rice table. Indrapura is one of the best, most buzzing places in Amsterdam to eat Indonesian food and get the rice table experience, where you are brought a large hot plate and a number of small Indonesian dishes so you can try all the different flavours in one sitting. There’s also the option to order their vegetarian rice table. For a tasty and laidback meal with a fun atmosphere, book a table at Indrapura on Rembrandtplein during your next trip to Dam.
2. Restaurant Blauw
Amstelveenseweg 158-160, 1075 XN, a 17 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Another amazing Indonesian restaurant in Amsterdam, right by Vondelpark, is Restaurant Blauw. Famous for their own rice tables, the plates at this restaurant are all vibrant in both colour and flavour, and served by some of the friendliest waiting staff in the city. Order one of their four rice table options or put your trust in the chef and opt for the Chef’s 3-Course Menu where each dish is a total surprise. The secret to their incredible flavours? The curries are stewed for hours. Make sure you get a taste of their signature dishes: Ayam Pop Gulai Padang and Krengsengan.
3. MAX Amsterdam
Herenstraat 14, 1015 CA, a 5 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Restaurant Max has made its name as one of Amsterdam’s top Indonesian restaurants for simply serving absolutely delicious Dutch-Indo food. Each and every dish is a flavour sensation and Max himself is popular amongst every guest that enters through his doors. If you want to try a Dutch famous rijsttafel, Restaurant Max is absolutely one of the best places to be served an endless variety of incredibly delicious dishes whether you’re a meat eater, vegetarian or vegan. When you’re after a memorable meal out in Amsterdam, make this charming little spot in Jordaan your first port of call.
Best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Amsterdam
1. Mr & Mrs Watson
Linnaeuskade 3h, 1098 BC, a 15 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
This 100% vegan restaurant in Amsterdam was set up with the aim of satisfying all of us with a love of cheese. Being a totally plant-based cheesery is definitely quirky, but the flavours are so realistic that even non-vegans will enjoy a tasting session at Mr & Mrs Watson. Serving cheese boards, cheese burgers, cheesecake and way more cheesy dishes that are all completely vegan, it’s easy to see how they won the PETA Vegan Food Award for Best Dairy Free Cheese in the Netherlands back in 2017. All their cheeses are made in-house using animal free products like soy, almonds and cashew, plus for every dish they serve they plant a tree, and for every litre of water they serve they donate 1,000 litres of clean drinking water to developing countries. So book a table and eat up!
2. Vegan Junk Food Bar
In four locations across the city: De Pijp, Westside, Eastside & Downtown
We all know that getting realistic vegan substitutes for junk food dishes is pretty easy these days, and if it’s something indulgent that you’re craving in Amsterdam, pull up a seat at Vegan Junk Food Bar. Just as the name puts it, everything on the menu is vegan and the kind of food you’d order after a big night out. Ribs, wings, shawarma, burgers, dirty fries… the food here is the stuff of dreams (especially if you have a hangover) and all SO colourful. The modern menu and bright interiors are what makes this chain known as one of the best places to go for vegan food in Amsterdam, and it’s the perfect place to bring your non-vegan friends, too.
3. Golden Temple
Utrechtsestraat 126, 1017 VT, a 6 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
One of the best vegetarian restaurants in Amsterdam is this cosy little spot by Frederiksplein. The Golden Temple never uses meat, fish or eggs, and the majority of its dishes are also perfectly suitable for vegans. The menu is a good mix of cuisines from around the world, although predominantly it’s Indian, so if you’re craving something spicy, enjoy their dahl and fragrant curry of the day. Whether you’re veggie, vegan or neither, you’re bound to love the flavours at the Golden Temple.
Our Amsterdam local expert, Keith, says he also recommends the Meatless District which is 100% plant-based. He said he loves the chilled, local neighbourhood restaurant vibe there.
Coolest restaurants in Amsterdam
1. Hannekes Boom
Dijksgracht 4D, 1019 BS, a 4 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Known and loved by all locals for its constantly buzzing atmosphere, great drinks and tasty food is Hannekes Boom, sitting right by the water next to the River IJ. This boho bar is the place to be when the sun is shining. Hundreds of people in the city gather to drink cheap beer and eat good food with a view over the river. Being hidden away from the busy streets means to stop here you’ve got to be ‘in the know’, as it’s hard to simply stumble upon. The burgers are great but if you’re there mainly to drink, be sure to order a few of their tasty snacks to go with your beer. On a hot summer’s day there’s nowhere better to be than looking out at the view from the coolest bar in Amsterdam.
2. Kanteen25
Kattenburgerstraat 5, Building 025, 1018 JA, a 10 minute cycle from St Christopher's Inns Amsterdam
Kanteen25 is all about minimising waste and sourcing produce locally. You’ll find this spot tucked away in a quiet area by the Nemo Science Museum with cool, modern decor while serving up incredible plates of food to match. The chefs at Kanteen25 know how to make a simple dish special, using their super creativity to put together colourful plates that taste delicious. Sit out on the terrace and soak up the friendly atmosphere which, along with their sustainable ethos, makes this a definite contender for coolest restaurant in Amsterdam.
Keith says: “The terrace at Kanteen25 is ideal for watching the sun go down and boats go by whilst escaping the bustle of the city centre.”
3. Pllek
T.T. Neveritaweg 59, 1033 WB, a 20 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Pllek is the place to go for food with a view as it’s located right on the river IJ in Amsterdam Noord with a man made beach and loads of outdoor seating. Built into a bunch of old shipping containers, this restaurant and bar is one of the city’s quirkiest places to eat and drink, and the relaxed atmosphere and hipster vibe draws in all the young locals, especially in the summer. Considering how laidback it is here, you might be surprised at just how incredible the food is in both flavour and presentation, from falafel flatbread to fried red bass. No visit to Amsterdam Noord is complete without exploring NDSM Wharf and stopping for a Dutch beer and food at Pllek.
4. Foodhallen
Bellamyplein 51 1053AT, an 11 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
An undeniably cool place to eat in Amsterdam and hangout with friends is Foodhallen in Amsterdam West. Inside this huge hall are street food stalls serving up cuisines from across the world, with a huge bar running through the middle. Get there early in the evening to grab a table and order from the huge selection of street food dishes around the room. Whether you’re craving a big bowl of Vietnamese pho, fully loaded Mexican tacos or a taste of the local delicacy, bitterballen, you’ll be spoiled for choice at the diversity of the dishes at your fingertips. While the food is always incredible, there’s always great music to match the vibe.
Cheap eats in Amsterdam
1. Jacketz
Nieuwendijk 32, 1012 ML, a 4 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Looking for something quick, cheap and filling to munch on between sightseeing? Jacketz is known all across the city for its fully loaded jacket potatoes right in the heart of Amsterdam. Cheap eats are super easy to come across when you’re exploring Dam, but none like this spot. Order your fluffy potato to be topped with either warm or cold fillings from a classic tuna salad to Asian glazed pulled pork, then add your extras like cheese, crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of one of their tasty sauces. Eat in or take your potato to go, and indulge in this typical Dutch meal for less than €10.
2. Sonny
Eerste van der Helststraat 43, 1073 AC, a 10 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Sonny has been serving the people of Amsterdam his mouth watering falafels since 1992. Right by Albert Cuypmarkt, these falafel pitas are legendary as one of the best cheap eats in the city for the low price, high quality and incredible flavour. Once you try the falafel here you’ll struggle to find another to match up to its taste. Sonny will pack your pitta with your choice of his huge range of salads and sauces - try his speciality homemade aubergine sauce or hummus, both made fresh in house. If you’re really hungry, order his famous homemade Belgian fries to go with it.
3. Stubbe’s Haring
Singel, 1013 GA Amsterdam, a 3 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
No trip to the Netherlands is complete without tasting the local delicacy that is fresh herring on bread, and Stubbe’s Haring is the place to try it. This no frills roadside food stall serves this Dutch street food at its best using the freshest herring, crunchy pickles and a perfectly soft bun - just the way it should be. The Stubbe family have served the same local regulars and millions of tourists for years and years from their herring stall in central Amsterdam, right by the Singel canal. At just €4.50 there really is no excuse not to try it.
Keith says: “Caldi e Freddi is another great cheap spot. It’s an Italian deli in the city centre that runs as a takeout place. All sandwiches are €3.50 and the menu is extensive with good options for both veggie and meat eaters. They also serve up other Italian classics such as pizza, calzone and pasta.”
Best Dutch restaurants in Amsterdam
1. De Ballenbar
Foodhallen, Bellamyplein 51 1053AT, an 11 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
De Ballenbar is one of the many food stalls in Foodhallen, setting itself apart from the rest by being the one and only to serve Dutch food. As you might have guessed, this Dutch restaurant is famous for its bitterballen - a local favourite served as a snack in almost every pub. Bitterballen is made from stewed beef, formed into balls and then breaded, deep-fried and served with a creamy mustard dipping sauce. There are a variety of different ways to cook bitterballen, and at De Ballenbar you can try them all.
2. Restaurant Moeders
Rozengracht 251, 1016 SX, a 9 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
If you’re looking to get a taste of the local Dutch cuisine in Amsterdam, book a table at Restaurant Moeders to make sure you get to eat at the best local restaurant in the city. From the moment you enter Moeders you’ll feel right at home from the welcoming service and smell of rich, home cooked dishes bubbling away in the kitchen behind the scenes. Try the classic Dutch ‘hotchpotch’ which is a selection of local meats with mashed potatoes and vegetables, or the ‘suddervlees’ which is a real local family favourite of stewed beef with potato and red cabbage. For a heartwarming meal that will remind you of home, Restaurant Moeders will hit the spot.
3. Hap-Hmm
Eerste Helmersstraat 33, 1054 CZ, a 9 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Hap-Hmm has been serving flavourful and unpretentious Dutch food in Amsterdam since 1935. Book a table and order their award-winning stamppot - a Dutch comfort food that mixes potatoes with a variety of vegetables and is served with local meat. The chefs at Hap-Hmm pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients sourced each morning, therefore adapting the recipe often to suit the season. Enjoy your meal with a local craft beer and soak up the atmosphere inside one of the best Dutch restaurants in Amsterdam.
Best fine dining in Amsterdam
1. Restaurant Moon
Overhoeksplein 3, 1031 KS, a 7 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Treat yourself and your loved ones to an outstanding meal with a view in this and fine dining restaurant. Amsterdam Noord’s Restaurant Moon is located on the 19th floor of the A’DAM Tower, and it slowly rotates so you are constantly in awe of the panoramic views over the city while you eat. Sit back and relax inside this stunning modern restaurant and enjoy the exquisite food cooked by their expert chefs, using only the freshest natural ingredients.
2. MOS
IJdok 185, 1013 MM, a 6 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
Looking right out over the River IJ with the Eye Filmmuseum on the opposite side, MOS is a must-visit if you want to eat at an incredible restaurant with a view. Amsterdam is home to many riverside restaurants, but none like this one. The ambiance, service and, of course, the food is all of the highest quality and the perfect place to visit for a special occasion. Watch the masters at work as they cook up your meal in the open kitchen, creating a relaxing environment for you to enjoy your meal with a view of the river. Make the most of their five or seven course dinner menus or visit during the day for a special lunch in Amsterdam.
3. De Kas
Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE, a 15 minute cycle from St Christopher’s Inns Amsterdam
A little out of the city centre in Watergraafsmeer is a totally unique dining experience in Amsterdam. At De Kas your food goes from plant to plate within a matter of hours which has earned this vegetarian restaurant a Michelin star. While the food is of the utmost quality, the restaurant itself is light, modern and relaxing, appropriately set inside a greenhouse giving you the sense of being far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Being a Michelin star restaurant, you know the food is going to be good. The dishes don’t only look picture-perfect, but they all burst with so much flavour that even the most stubborn meat-eaters won’t be able to resist giving it a five star review.
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