Amsterdam is famous for many things, some more well-known than others. As one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations, it has tourists crowding its streets every day to experience the artistic heritage, canals, narrow homes, museums and tolerant society. Of course another major draw that has people buzzing about the capital is its growing foodie scene. With this in mind, here’s our list of the best trendy restaurants to eat at in Amsterdam.
Awarded a Michelin star for its outstanding grub, this first place is the one where you should splash the cash on the last night of your holiday. With a menu mainly focusing around fish, enjoy dishes from the à la Carte and Chef’s menu. Located in the Hotel Sofitel Legend The Grand, indulge in a VIP experience and book the Chef’s Table for a behind the scenes look into the kitchen. Relax in the stylish interior and start the evening with a cocktail expertly prepared by their skilled bar staff. It doesn’t come cheap but is guaranteed to be worth every penny.
Visit the eco-patisserie next door to the Conscious Hotel for a breakfast of Instagram dreams. Open from 7 am, the trendy hotspot serves organic homemade cakes, smoothie bowls and sandwiches and is perfect for a quick light-bite in between sight-seeing. With plenty of beautifully presented vegan options, you’re going to want to snap a picture in front of the flamingo pink tiled walls and neon logo sign. Take a seat at the window and watch the world go by.
Inspired by the French themed brasseries of New York, Café George brings a little piece of Paris to the streets of Amsterdam. Serving up French and international cuisine in bistro surroundings, try their iconic steak frites and wind down for the day with a nice cold G&T. Sit in the outdoor patio area during the summer months and make sure to book in advance as it gets very busy in the evening.
Another one to feed both you and your social media addiction, is Pluk Amsterdam, the healthy hotspot in the 9 streets. Breathe in the fresh interiors of the Instagrammer’s paradise and order one of their quirky smoothie bowls that not only look good but are also good for you. Try a beetroot latte and do a spot of shopping - they also sell interiors and lifestyle items.
Sitting on top of the A’DAM Tower is the swanky dinner spot, Moon. The revolving restaurant offers unbelievable panoramic views of the city and beyond, completing one full rotation every hour. Inspired by chef Jamie van Heije, the menu is simple yet sophisticated. Grab a drink from the bar in the centre and look out for one of the many culinary events they host, inviting guest chefs to remix the menu.
Offering itself as the ultimate hangout spot, the minimalist Toki is a haven for coffee and brunch lovers. The welcoming, cosy atmosphere in this place makes it a great spot to chill after a hectic morning with a cup of loose leaf tea and a cronut. For something a bit more substantial, try the ‘Toki Toast’ made with watermelon radish and the porridge and eggs on sourdough bread. And another thing – the restaurant holds a full liquor license, meaning you can also catch up with friends over a beer.
If you’re not a fan of pink then maybe this one won’t be for you. Walk into MaMa Kelly and you’ll instantly wonder if you’re eyesight has gone mad because all the interior completely one colour bar a few accents of gold. With its menu focusing only on chicken and lobster, this is the second venue of the chain founded by Rein Rambaldo and spans a number of floors in the Olympish area. If you do want to give your eyes a break get a group together and book a sitting in the secret bar - the only room in the place not decked out in shocking pink.
Home to the infamous freak shake, this is a place for all the family to enjoy. Boasting an all-day breakfast menu, cakes too pretty to eat and red velvet pancakes, you’ll get a cavity just looking at it. Corner Bakery also offers savoury options such as sandwiches and salads which are just as good as the sweet stuff. Don’t leave without ordering a freak shake topped with a doughnut, whipped cream and an absurd amount of sugar. Pastel interiors, unicorn-shaped food and a reasonable price tag – we’re sold!
Part of the Pulitzer hotel, Jansz serves up modern classics with a relaxed Dutch atmosphere. Simple, elegant interiors and an outdoor terrace to bask in the summer sun, this restaurant is child friendly and all about customer satisfaction. Visit on Sundays for the family day early dinner and supervised children’s playtime in their Copper Room. Treat yourself to the New York cheesecake with pistachio sorbet and red pepper to round things off nicely.
The ultimate pitstop, Polaberry is the place to pick-up a mid-sight-seeing snack. Taking chocolate covered strawberries to the next level, this little coffee shop dunks fruit in pink chocolate, edible gold, floral gems and packages them in little boxes or bouquets. As if it couldn’t get any better they even have unicorn strawberries!
Located on the 7th floor in the old Dutch newspaper, De Volkskrant, building, Canvas has one of the largest rooftop bars in the city. Offering well balanced simple dishes and an elaborate drinks list, this is a great place for a date night or dinner and drinks with friends. With a club next door you can have a post dinner dance before heading home.
Planning a visit to Amsterdam soon? Make sure to tag us in your photos from our ‘foodie guide to Amsterdam’, using the hashtag #ryanairstories for a chance to be featured on Ryanair’s Instagram feed.
Flights to Amsterdam
- Lucy Norris
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