AMSTERDAM:
Where We Eat
Our Go To’s
Easy. Casual. Reliable. Delicious.
Lolo
Address: Oudekerksplein 48, 1012 GZ Amsterdam
Vibe: Italian flair meets exuberant design
Price: €€ - €€€
Must order: The truffle pasta or any of the more character-filled pastas; their house cocktails; dessert like the “LoLo Kiss”.
Lolo is for nights when you want food and theatre. It’s not just about the plate, it’s about the space, the soundtrack, the mood, and the design all feeding into an Italian-inspired feast but with a twist. If you’re in the mood for indulgence, something playful and not quite ordinary, this is your go-to.
Image courtesy of Lolo’s
The Pantry
Address: Leidsekruisstraat 21, 1017 RE Amsterdam (Leidseplein area)
Vibe: Cozy, warm, traditional
Price: €€
Must order: Go for a Dutch classic like hutspot or stamppot (mashed potatoes with seasonal veg + smoked sausage or meatballs) or the smoked eel on toast.
The Pantry feels like a breath of home if you want Dutch food done right. Simple, comforting meals in a setting that’s unpretentious—but stylish enough to feel like more than just “tourist food.” It’s one of the best spots when you want to slow down, try local dishes, and soak in the atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Image courtesy of The Pantry
Caniballe Royale
Address: Handboogstraat 17-19, 1012 XM Amsterdam (city centre)
Vibe: Darker, moody, somewhat industrial / pub-style. Big portions, meat-centric, lively crowd, good for later dinners.
Price: €€
Must order: Their signature ribs or steak. If sharing, go for a big meat platter.
Cannibale Royale is for when you want indulgent, hearty food and don’t care about politely sipping a light dinner. The meat is the star: ribs, steak, big burgers, bold flavors, lots of sauce. It’s loud in the best way, perfect for meat lovers or a group that wants fun over finesse.
Image courtesy of Caniballe Royale
Foodhallen
Location: Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT Amsterdam (Oud-West)
Vibe: Big, lively, social. A converted former tram depot turned indoor food hall, with communal seating, ambient buzz, multiple food stalls, good for groups or casual nights.
Price: Around €30 per person
Must order: Try the soft-shell crab bun at Le Big Fish or De Ballenbar’s bitterballen. Also plenty of good tacos, grilled burgers, Vietnamese stalls.
Foodhallen is where casual eats meet variety and atmosphere. With dozens of food-stalls under one roof, you can wander from Italian pizza to Vietnamese noodles to Dutch bitterballen in a single evening. It’s especially good when you have different cravings in your group, want a lively vibe, or just want to graze and share rather than do a formal sit-down.
Image courtesy of Foodhallen
Nate
Address: Utrechtsestraat 19, 1017 VH Amsterdam
Vibe: All-day hangout type. Coffee by morning, casual bites & brunch, then into cocktails later. Warm, relaxed, friendly.
Price: €€
Must order: The shakshuka, and whatever their seasonal special is.
Nate is a solid choice when you want something casual but with personality. It doesn’t try too hard but it delivers — good drinks, decent food, atmosphere that doesn’t pressure you. Ideal for a no-fuss evening, for locals or visitors who want to feel like locals. The best spot for an easy bite on the canal.
Image courtesy of Nate
Celia
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 5 (Kimpton De Witt Hotel), 1012 RC Amsterdam
Vibe: Bright, airy, modern Californian-inspired living.
Price: €€ - €€€
Must order: Their seasonal, market-driven Californian dishes (think crisp fish or vibrant vegetable dishes) plus a cocktail. Also, their taco offer or sharing plates are standouts.
Celia is perfect when you want a meal that feels fresh and optimistic: food that doesn’t weigh you down, but still tastes like something special. It’s a lovely option when you want style + substance, someplace you can linger. Also good if you have mixed tastes — some want meat, some vegetarian — this place accommodates both with flair.
Image courtesy of Celia
Sjefietshe
Address: Van Ostadestraat 1, 1072 SL Amsterdam (De Pijp)
Vibe: Stylishly relaxed, coastal / Latin American influence. A cevicheria with attitude but not pretentious.
Price: €€€
Must order: Their signature ceviches (for instance the Dorade ceviche or “Mixto” combo), the hot octopus (“hotdoctopus”), and pair with a well-made cocktail.
Sjefietshe is great when you want something a little more adventurous without going full fine dining. The freshness of the ceviche, the creativity, the feel of being somewhere you can relax but also impress — it hits a sweet spot. If you like seafood, bold flavours, this one’s for you.
Image courtesy of Sjefietshe
Kikkie van de Prinsensluis
Address: Prinsenstraat, 1015 DD Amsterdam, Netherlands
Vibe: Warm, friendly, almost neighbourhood café turned gastropub hybrid. Cosy, unpretentious, with a sunlit terrace.
Price: €€
Must order: The Smash Burger (our favorite), mussels with nduja sauce, and anything that leans smoky or grilled. Also dessert: cheesecake.
Kikkie van de Prinsensluis is perfect when you want food that feels like it belongs to Amsterdam but done well. It’s not slick, it doesn’t feel staged, but the food is thoughtful, the staff friendly, and you leave satisfied. Good option for a drink + dinner mix, or for nights when you want comfort with enough flavour to feel like you’ve eaten well.
Image courtesy of Kikkie van de Prinsensluis
Go All Out
Special places for special occassions.
Kaagman & Kortekaas
Address: Amsterdam, Netherlands (specific address: 1e van der Helststraat 55, 1072 NZ)
Vibe: Stylish, modern European, thoughtful. Upscale without being over-the-top.
Price: €€€€
Must order: Their creative set menus; signature fish or meat courses showcasing seasonal produce. Wine pairing helps elevate the experience.
Kaagman & Kortekaas is for when you want something refined but not flashy; serious cooking with heart. It balances artistry and comfort, making it ideal for guests or moments you want to remember.
Image courtesy of Kaagman & Kortekaas
Ron Gastrobar
Address: Two in Amsterdam. For the special occasion go to Sophialaan 55, 1075 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
Vibe: Chic, chef-driven, fun modern luxury.
Price: €€€
Must order: Ron’s Boneless Spareribs, without a doubt.
Ron Gastrobar is great when you want fine food but still some pulse—not total silence. It strikes a balance between indulgence and enjoyment. Perfect for evenings when you want to show up, dress up, and treat everyone. It’s affordable yet remarkable.
Image courtesy of Ron Gastropub
Sinne
Address: Amsterdam (exact address: Frederik Hendrikstraat 149, 1052 JT)
Vibe: Romantic, slightly understated, artistic. Quiet enough to hear your companion.
Price: €€€ - €€€€
Must order: Signature dishes like the egg/celeriac/truffle; the seasonal fish or meat courses with creative twists.
Sinne is that kind of restaurant you choose when you want your food to surprise you—not just deliver. It’s intimate, expressive, elevated. A great environment for reflection, conversation, and special memories.
Image courtesy of Sinne
Mos
Address: IJdok 185, 1013 MM Amsterdam (Waterfront)
Vibe: Luxe waterfront elegance. Views over the IJ River, refined décor, a bit cosmopolitan with calm, less hustle.
Price: €€€€. Expect €150-€250+.
Must order: The seafood-forward tasting menu; dishes that highlight fresh fish, refined sauces, creative plating.
Mos is ideal when you want an exceptional night without the formality of white gloves, but all the quality. The setting (water + modern style) adds something special. Wonderful for occasions where view + cuisine combine.
Image courtesy of Mos
Daalder
Address: Postjesweg 1, 1057 DT Amsterdam (Nieuw-West)
Vibe: Bold, modern, and artistic. Daalder is playful in presentation, buzzing with energy, and filled with art and character.
Price: €€€€ - Tasting menus start at around €135–€160.
Must order: The multi-course Chef’s Menu — dishes shift seasonally, but expect highly creative plates with bold contrasts and visual flair.
Daalder stands out for its personality: not just polished fine dining, but food as theater, flavor as adventure. It’s lively, a little rebellious, and perfect for special occasions when you want something memorable yet modern.
Image courtesy of Daalder
Ciel Bleu
Address: Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, 1072 LH Amsterdam (Hotel Okura)
Vibe: Panoramic, luxurious, sky-high. Being on the 23rd floor gives you sweeping views over the city.
Price: €€€€
Must order: The Signature Experience or the Caviar Experience; take the prestige menu if available.
Ciel Bleu is for moments when you want every detail to feel elevated: the view, the service, the food, the ambiance. It’s not casual—it’s a destination dinner, something you plan and look forward to. Great for celebrations, proposals, or when you want to impress.
Image courtesy of Ciel Bleu
Vinkeles
Address: Keizersgracht 384, 1016 GB Amsterdam (The Dylan, in the canal district)
Vibe: Historic yet refined. Intimate.
Price: Fixed-price tasting / signature menus start ~ €145-€185
Must order: The Chef’s Signature Menu with the Wagyu A5 “Nakayama” upgrade, or if not, the pigeon “au sang” and sweetbread dishes.
Vinkeles is perfect when you want exquisite food in a beautifully atmospheric setting. It’s romantic in a way that feels timeless: canals outside, skill inside the kitchen, and dishes that linger in memory. For special dinners where you want it to feel worth it.
Image courtesy of Vinkeles
Spectrum
Address: Herengracht 542-556, 1017 CG Amsterdam
Vibe: Elegant, modern, polished.
Price: €€€€ The tasting menus run ~ €210-€240 per person.
Must order: The multi-course degustation menu; go for the lobster, the black truffle, foie gras options, and paired wines.
Dining at Spectrum feels like attending a performance: each course is choreographed, flavors layered, service seamless. It’s ideal for marking a milestone—an anniversary, birthday, or any evening when “going big” isn’t optional. Reservations well in advance are essential.
Image courtesy of Spectrum
Where We Wake Up
We take breakfast seriously.
Belly Pepper
Address: De Clercqstraat 128, Oud-West
Vibe: Flavorful, bold, vibrant. Turkish influences, strong flavors, and creative without pretension.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Borek with spinach & feta + poached egg; also the Turkish breakfast spread if you’re coming with friends.
Belly Pepper is the kind of place that wakes all your senses: the flavor, the spices, the vibe. It’s great for mornings when you want something lively, something with punch, something to start the day with both satisfaction and discovery. If you’re tired of smashed avocado or standard eggs, this gives a flavorful alternative. Portions are generous, and sharing works well.
Image courtesy of Belly Pepper
Florentin Brunch
Address: Albert Cuypstraat 31, De Pijp
Vibe: Bright, all-day brunch with a Mediterranean feel.
Price: €€
Must-order: The Mediterranean Breakfast Platter with hummus, pita, and grilled veg; also their pancakes are a local favourite.
Florentine Brunch feels like a warm embrace from the start of the day — generous, fresh, and full of flavour. It has that neighbourhood energy that makes it feel approachable, yet everything is prepared with clear care. Ideal for mornings when you want to sit back, share a few plates, and linger with coffee or tea. It’s both comforting and cosmopolitan at once.
Image courtesy of Florentin Brunch
Staring at Jacob
Address: Jacob van Lennepkade 215, 1053 NK Amsterdam (Oud-West)
Vibe: Soulful, hip, fun. Big portions, bright décor, music in the background that doesn’t overpower, good for groups or for lazy mornings when you stay longer.
Price: €€
Must-order: Chicken & waffles, the “Monkey Business” French toast (with mascarpone & fruit), or one of their big all-round breakfast combos.
Staring at Jacob is one of those spots that feels like weekend energy in food form. It’s lively but not chaotic; indulgent without being excessive. If you want brunch with character — substantial portions, creative twists, good coffee — this hits it. It also transitions nicely: a solid spot for breakfast, that later becomes something more evening-friendly.
Image courtesy of Staring at Jacob
Little Collins
Address: Eerste Sweelinckstraat 19F, De Pijp
Vibe: Trendy, international, casual but smart. Lots of flavor combinations, good coffee, relaxed tables, a place to linger.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Shakshuka or their legendary eggs Benedict.
Little Collins was one of the early adopters of the Antipodean brunch style in Amsterdam, meaning it blends influences from Australia/NZ with global twists. It’s great when you want something more interesting than just toast + eggs, something you’ll remember beyond the meal. The service tends to be good even when busy. If you want your brunch with a punch of flavor, this is a strong choice.
Image courtesy of Little Collins
Dignita
Address: Several locations: Vondelpark, Amstel, Spaarndammerbuurt etc.
Vibe: Bright, fresh, vibrant. Lots of vegetable/healthy options along with the brunch classics.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Their chickpea & courgette fritters, fried halloumi, avocado, poached egg combo; or whatever seasonal special they’re doing that day.
Dignita is great when you want something that feels nourishing and brunchy without over-indulging. The food is creative, with good consideration given to produce and presentation. Because of its popularity and location (especially the garden behind the Hermitage), it can be quite busy, so ideal for planning ahead or showing up early. It gives you brunch + atmosphere + style in one.
Image courtesy of Dignita
Bakers & Roasters
Address: De Pijp / Centrum (two locations)
Vibe: Laid-back, bright, casual with an international twist
Price: €€
Must order: The Kiwi Brekkie, pancakes, or chorizo breakfast burrito. Also their fresh juices and double espresso are solid.
Bakers & Roasters hits that sweet spot between hearty and healthy: great if you want a big breakfast to wake up to, or something lighter with flair. The food is vibrant without being over-styled, and there’s enough variety that even picky eaters or vegetarians will leave happy. It tends to fill up on weekend mornings, so either come early or be prepared to wait a little.
Image courtesy of Bakers & Roasters
Mortimer
Address: Nieuwezijds Kolk, 1012 Amsterdam Center
Vibe: Cozy brunch bar in the centre. Laid-back but stylish.
Price: €€
Must-order: Try their American-style pastries and one of their “brunch classics” like the smoked salmon dish, paired with specialty coffee from Friedhats.
Mortimer is perfect when you want that city-centre energy without sacrificing calm. It sits just between Central Station and Dam Square so it’s easy to slide in early before the tourist crowds swell. The combination of excellent beans, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, and pastries that feel elevated makes for a really satisfying morning. If you want great food and excellent coffee in one place, this delivers without fuss.
Image courtesy of Mortimer
Greenwoods
Address: Keizersgracht 465 (and also Singel & other locations)
Vibe: Classic with charm. Canal-side tea room/café aesthetic, old-school feel.
Price: €€
Must-order: Eggs Benedict (classic or with salmon), the “Emperor’s Eggs Royale”, or soda bread with butter and jam, plus a cappuccino or flat white.
Greenwoods is perfect if you want to start your morning with grace — sitting by a canal, watching the city wake up, savouring good food. It’s familiar, comforting, and reliably excellent without being flashy. Even when busy, the atmosphere holds up: leisurely, kind of genteel, with food that delivers. Great spot for tourists and locals alike who want breakfast to feel like more than just fuel.
Image courtesy of Greenwoods
Street Eats
Cheap and legendary.
Foodhallen
Address: Bellamyplein 51, Oud-West
Vibe: Indoor food hall in a converted tram depot. Lively, communal tables, an array of international street-food counters under one roof.
Price: €€
Must-order: Bitterballen at De Ballenbar or tacos at Taquería Lima.
Foodhallen brings global street food to a single space, making it perfect for when you want to sample multiple flavors in one night. The atmosphere is buzzing — locals and visitors side by side, sharing tables, drinks flowing. It’s Amsterdam’s polished take on street eats, combining variety with style.
Image courtesy of Foodhallen
De Kaaskamer van Amsterdam
Address: Runstraat 7, 1016 GJ Amsterdam (Nine Streets)
Vibe: Artisanal cheese shop with a street-side counter. Bustling during lunch hours, fragrant and packed with wheels of Dutch cheese.
Price: €–€€
Must-order: A broodje (sandwich) piled with aged Dutch cheese or truffle gouda.
De Kaaskamer is where cheese lovers go to indulge, and their street-style sandwiches are a cult favorite. It’s grab-and-go, but elevated — thick slices of rustic bread layered with sharp, creamy, or nutty Dutch cheeses. Perfect for a quick lunch while wandering the Nine Streets.
Image courtesy of Sjefietshe De Kaaskamer
Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels
Address: Albert Cuyp Market, De Pijp
Vibe: A humble cart with a cult following. Warm, thin waffle layers pressed with molten caramel.
Price: €
Must-order: The large fresh stroopwafel — skip the packaged ones and go straight for one hot off the iron.
Rudi’s stall has become legendary for serving the best stroopwafels in the city. The scent of caramel pulls you in before you even spot the line. Watching the process — batter pressed, caramel spread, then served steaming — is half the charm, and eating it while it drips is the other half.
Image courtesy of Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels
Haring & Zo
Address: Damrak 247, near Central Station
Vibe: Classic Dutch fish stall. Simple, efficient, all about the herring.
Price: €
Must-order: Hollandse Nieuwe (raw herring with onions and pickles), eaten the traditional way by holding the tail and taking a bite.
Herring stands are a quintessential Amsterdam experience, and Haring & Zo is one of the most convenient spots. The fish is fresh, mild, and sweeter than you’d expect, especially when paired with onions and pickles. For those less adventurous, they also serve broodjes haring (herring rolls) which are equally satisfying.
Image courtesy of Haring & Zo
Albert Cuyp Markt
Address: Albert Cuypstraat, De Pijp
Vibe: Amsterdam’s most famous street market, bustling with stalls, chatter, and the smell of food from all corners.
Price: €–€€
Must-order: Fresh stroopwafels made in front of you, or poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes with butter and powdered sugar).
Albert Cuyp Market is street food heaven: buzzing, lively, and full of classics. You can graze your way through Dutch staples and international flavors while browsing stalls. The stroopwafels here are the stuff of legends, hot off the press and dripping with caramel.
Image courtesy of Albert Cuyp Markt
Van Stepele Koekmakerij
Address: Heisteeg 4, 1012 WC Amsterdam
Vibe: Small, elegant bakery focused on one thing only. Always a line outside, rich chocolate scent filling the street.
Price: €
Must-order: The signature warm chocolate cookie with white chocolate filling.
Van Stapele is as simple as it is legendary. They only bake one cookie, but it’s perfect: gooey inside, crisp edges, rich flavor. Hot from the oven, it’s the ultimate Amsterdam sweet street snack, beloved by both locals and visitors.
Image courtesy of Van Stepele Koekmakerij
Febo
Address: Multiple locations across Amsterdam
Vibe: Retro, kitsch, grab-and-go automat. Wall of vending-machine windows offering hot Dutch snacks.
Price: €
Must-order: Kroket or frikandel straight from the wall, paired with fries if you want a full Dutch fast-food moment.
Febo is a quirky Amsterdam ritual: you drop a coin in, pull a door open, and a fresh kroket is yours. It’s cheap, cheerful, and very Dutch — the kind of thing you try at least once. There’s no glamour here, just comfort snacks and the novelty of an automat that’s never gone out of style.
Image courtesy of Febo
Vleminckx Sausmeesters
Address: Voetboogstraat 33, 1012 XK Amsterdam
Vibe: No-frills, walk-up counter with a perpetual line. Iconic Amsterdam street-food spot dedicated to fries and sauces.
Price: €
Must-order: Fries with classic Dutch mayo, or try their satay or oorlog (peanut satay + mayo + onions).
Vleminckx has been serving fries since 1957 and remains the benchmark for Amsterdam street food. The potatoes are fried to golden perfection, crisp on the outside, fluffy inside, and served in paper cones with more sauce choices than you’d expect. It’s as much an experience as a snack, and worth the inevitable queue.
Image courtesy of Vleminckx Sausmeesters
Coffeeshops
We’re talking about weed.
Boerejongens
Address: Several locations (Utrechtsestraat, Baarsjesweg, Sloterdijk)
Vibe: Sleek, high-end, almost like a designer pharmacy. Staff in white coats, clear menus, polished interiors — cannabis with a luxury touch.
Price: €€€
Must-order: White Choco block hash or their premium kush strains.
Boerejongens has reinvented what a coffeeshop can feel like: professional, elevated, and stylish. It’s the opposite of the grungy stereotype, making it a favorite for those who want a premium, design-forward cannabis experience. Think of it as the haute couture version of Amsterdam weed culture.
Image courtesy of Boerejongens
Abraxas
Address: Jonge Roelensteeg 12-14, 1012 PL Amsterdam
Vibe: Mystical, artistic, and slightly otherworldly. Multi-level space with carved wood, stained glass, and ambient music.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Their Jack Herer strain or a hash joint.
Abraxas feels like stepping into a fantasy den — lots of carved detail, incense, and soft lighting. It’s one of the most atmospheric coffeeshops in town, known as much for its setting as its menu. A good choice if you want a memorable, immersive environment alongside quality cannabis.
Image courtesy of Abraxas
Dampkring
Address: Handboogstraat 29, 1012 XM Amsterdam
Vibe: Famous, bohemian, slightly trippy. Known globally as the coffeeshop featured in Ocean’s Twelve.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Amnesia Haze or NY Diesel.
Dampkring has a playful, psychedelic interior with warm wood, swirling designs, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s large by Amsterdam standards and draws both locals and tourists who want a mix of quality cannabis and cinematic fame. A good mid-day stop with plenty of energy.
Image courtesy of Dampkring
Coffeeshop Amsterdam
Address: Haarlemmerstraat 44, 1013 ES Amsterdam
Vibe: Modern, bright, and spacious compared to most. More lounge than dive, with contemporary interiors and a younger crowd.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Their house strains like Amsterdam Genetics’ White Choco or Kosher Tangie Kush.
Coffeeshop Amsterdam strikes a nice balance between atmosphere and quality. It feels modern and comfortable — a good place to actually hang out and relax, not just buy and leave. Their menu, curated by Amsterdam Genetics, is consistently strong.
Image courtesy of Sjefietshe
Tweede Kamer
Address: Heisteeg 6, 1012 WC Amsterdam
Vibe: Cozy, old-school, intimate. Known for being one of the first true connoisseur shops, with a relaxed, authentic feel.
Price: €€
Must-order: Their Amnesia Haze or Nepalese hash.
Tweede Kamer has been part of the coffeeshop scene since the 1980s and retains a local, down-to-earth atmosphere. The staff are knowledgeable and genuinely helpful in guiding choices. It’s small, with only a few tables, but the focus here is on quality and authenticity.
Image courtesy of Tweede Kamer
The Bulldog
Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 90, 1012 GG Amsterdam
Vibe: Tourist-friendly, historic, lively. The city’s first coffeeshop, opened in 1975, with a bar-like energy.
Price: €€
Must-order: A classic pre-rolled joint, or try a Bulldog space cake for the experience.
The Bulldog is a rite of passage for first-timers. It’s not where locals go for the very best product, but it’s fun, central, and part of Amsterdam’s cannabis history. Expect energy, chatter, and lots of people ticking it off their list.
Image courtesy of Bulldog
Barney’s Coffeeshop
Address: Haarlemmerstraat 102, 1013 EW Amsterdam
Vibe: Award-winning, stylish, and a little more upscale than most. Housed in a 500-year-old building with polished wood interiors.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Their G13 Haze or Cookies Kush are staples.
Barney’s is one of the most professional and polished cannabis destinations in Amsterdam. The staff know their menu inside and out, and the strains regularly win international awards. It’s a great place for someone who wants quality with a touch of sophistication rather than a backpacker vibe.
Image courtesy of Barney’s Coffeeshop
Grey Area
Address: Oude Leliestraat 2, 1015 AW Amsterdam
Vibe: Legendary, compact, and cult-classic. Small, no-frills interior but buzzing with locals and international cannabis aficionados.
Price: €€
Must-order: Famous for their strong sativa strains — try the Grey Haze or whatever the day’s top shelf is.
Grey Area is one of the city’s most iconic coffeeshops, frequented by connoisseurs and even musicians passing through on tour. It’s tiny, so don’t expect to sit forever, but the quality is exceptional and consistently praised. If you’re looking for potency and reputation, this is the spot.
The Night Starts Here
The best kind of pregame.
The Siren
Address: Rokin 83, 1012 LN Amsterdam
Vibe: Maximalist Mediterranean meets nightlife theatre. Warm materials, bold design, gold accents, statement pieces.
Price: €€€€
Must-order: Lobster Linguine
The Siren makes the opening act feel like a headline. You want somewhere where the décor, the presentation, the food, and the drinks all feel like part of an experience. For nights where “ordinary dinner” isn’t enough.
Image courtesy of The Siren
Secret Garden
Address: Reguliersdwarsstraat 38, 1017 BM Amsterdam
Vibe: Exotic, lush décor blending green elements, art, nightlife aesthetic. There’s a bar/lounge + fine dining + DJ components. Feels like stepping into something special.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Any ceviche and the esquites corn salad.
Secret Garden is perfect for the kind of night where you want dinner that feels elevated, but you also want anticipation: music, drinks, potential for after-hours. It balances refinement and revelry.
Image courtesy of Secret Garden
Canvas At Volkshotel
Address: Wibautstraat 150, 1091 GR Amsterdam (Amsterdam East)
Vibe: Multi-level creative hotel with bars, restaurants, rooftop views, and performance spaces. Starts more relaxed, dinner + drinks, then moves into late-night dancing.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Spring Salad and Burrata
Volkshotel is a scene. It allows you to start beautifully (food, view, drink) but with obvious outlets for people who want more energy later. It’s good for larger groups with mixed agendas (some want to dance, some want to talk), because you can ebb and flow.
Image courtesy of Volkshotel
W Lounge
Address: Spuistraat 175, 1012 VN Amsterdam
Vibe: Rooftop terrace vibes, luxurious design, good mix of locals and visitors, strong cocktails. Ambience that works before and after dinner: glamorous but not intimidating.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Jumbo shrimp salad.
W Lounge gives you the height, the view, the energy rising with the night. Excellent when you want atmosphere + style + a gradual crescendo. Solid choice if you’re starting with dinner, and don’t want to lose momentum.
Image courtesy of W Lounge
Super Lyan
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 3, 1012 RC Amsterdam (Kimpton De Witt Hotel)
Vibe: Bold, colorful, playful cocktail bar with global acclaim (an outpost of London’s White Lyan). It’s experimental but still accessible — music, energy, and a crowd that’s already gearing up for a night out.
Price: €€€
Must-order: The Beeswax Old Fashioned and halloumi fries.
Super Lyan sets the mood instantly: it’s inventive, stylish, and already buzzing by early evening. Drinks here are crafted with precision but designed to be fun, not intimidating. Pair with snacks or head here post-dinner — either way, it’s the kind of cocktail bar that bridges the gap between dining and dancing.
Image courtesy of Sjefietshe
Ventuno
Address: Amstelvlietstraat 4, 1096 GG Amsterdam (21st floor of Ruby & Emma Hotel)
Vibe: Glamorous rooftop, dramatic skyline views, Italian-American inspired food with flair. Cocktails + live entertainment every evening.
Price: €€€
Must-order: The truffle steak tartar.
Ventuno feels like a statement. It’s not about underground: it’s high style, elevated energy. Perfect for arriving early, soaking in views, making cocktails feel cinematic, and then leaning into the night from there.
Image courtesy of Ventuno
Soulkitchen
Address: Amstelstraat 30, 1017 DA Amsterdam
Vibe: Nikkei fusion cuisine meets club energy. Starts as beautifully curated dinner + cocktail lounge, then gradually the lights dim, DJs spin, and it becomes a full party space.
Price: €€€
Must-order: Try their ceviche & tiradito dishes.
Soulkitchen works beautifully as a “dinner that turns up” spot. It’s polished yet warm, energetic without being exhausting too early. Great friends group energy, good food so you don’t need to eat elsewhere first, and a flow that carries you into the night.
Image courtesy of Soulkitchen
Supperclub
Address: Singel 460, 1017 AZ Amsterdam
Vibe: Lavish, theatrical, immersive. Supperclub is legendary for its white beds, shared tables, surprise acts and performances, all wrapped up in a sensory-rich environment that demands attention.
Price: €€€€
Must-order: A full surprise 5-course “dinnershow” menu
Supperclub is ideal when you want your pre-game to feel like an event. You start with dinner that already feels over the top — artistic, dramatic, special — and by the end the space has transformed. It’s one of the rare spots where you could stay from early evening well past midnight without feeling like you’ve peaked too early. Perfect for setting a high-energy tone.
Image courtesy of Supperclub