The 50 Amsterdam Restaurants and Cafes You Can’t Afford to Miss – 2025

Introduction:

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam in 2025 and want to get the most out of your time, there’s one thing I can’t stress enough – explore the food scene! As an Amsterdam local, I’ve eaten at many of the places you will be dining – from traditional Dutch restaurants, to little trendy cafes and everything in between. I have also seen how a good restaurant or cafe can turn a good day into a great day! The diversity, vibrancy, creativity, and ever-changing culinary landscape in Amsterdam is so exciting! There is everything from hearty Dutch classics to modern, innovative international cuisine. During your short visit or a longer stay, these 50 restaurants and cafes will ensure you enjoy delicious, unmissable experiences while you’re here!

The Pancake Bakery 🥞

To kick off your Amsterdam food itinerary, why not start with a real Dutch classic – pancakes! The Pancake Bakery has a canalside location and a lot of sweet and savoury options. Start the day with a Dutch pancake with bacon and cheese!

Why it’s a must-visit:

• Famous for their authentic Dutch pancakes.
• Great breakfast and brunch option with canalside dining.
• Cozy spot with friendly service.

Café de Klos 🍖

For all you meat eaters, Café de Klos has some of the best juicy, tender ribs you can get, along with hearty Dutch stews. It has a rustic, casual atmosphere that will make you feel comfortable and ready for a full meal after a busy day of sightseeing.

Why You Should Go:

• Massive and delicious portions of ribs.
• Dutch comfort food that feels like home.
• A very chill environment where you really can unwind after a long day of exploring.

Bar Brasserie & Terrace 🍷

This hip brasserie is elegant and located immediately on the banks of the Amstel River. If you are a seafood fan, you can devour crab cakes and fresh oysters with a glass of wine.

Why You Should Go:

• Beautiful river view for a romantic meal.
• Well-curated selection of seafood, and wine.
• Chic and stylish atmosphere.

Balthazar’s Keuken 🍝

Balthazar’s Keuken is one of the coziest small restaurants we visited that focuses on local, seasonal products. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere just added to the experience. If they are serving the slow roasted lamb, make sure you try it because it is always great!

Why You Should Go:

• Seasonally inspired menu focused on local ingredients.
• Great for an intimate meal, or romantic dinner.
• Great for foodies who are looking for some really good quality eats in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Avocado Show 🥑

If you love avocados then The Avocado Show is for you! From avocado burgers to some great avocado bowls, this café is delicious. It is also a great place for a brunch or casual lunch date.

Why You Should Go:

• Avocado dishes that will make your Instagram friends envious.
• Awesome, trendy vibe.
• Perfect for brunch or lunch with friends.

De Kas 🌿

If you are looking for the real farm to table experience, visit De Kas, which is located in a greenhouse. They have a seasonal menu and showcase local fresh veggies on vegetable platters.

Why It’s Worth a Visit:

• Local seasonal food in a rustic farm table type of venue.
• Greenhouse filled with beautiful natural light.
• Get to experience what it feels like to be sustainable diners.

Vinnies 🥗

If you are looking to eat healthy, then Vinnies is the place. They use organic and locally sourced food. Their smoothie bowls and vegan sandwiches make a great meal for when you just want a light, satisfying meal.

Why It’s Worth a Visit:

• All the ingredients are organic and local.
• There is a good selection for vegetarians and vegans.
• Healthy, fresh meals while soaking up good vibes.

Moeders 🍲

Dutch-style home cooking is a dining experience all unto itself. Moeders is a family-style restaurant, like home-style dining where a single portion constitutes 2-3 people, serving some very good traditional Dutch meals e.g. stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables mixed together), and haring (pickled herring) with the comfort of feeling like you’re dining at home.

Why It’s Worth a Visit:

• Comfort food from out of a Dutch home-cooked meal with love.
• Cozy, homely feel makes you feel like you are at a friend’s house.
• A good experience to get the local authentic Dutch flavour.

Nielson’s 🍇

If you like wine and cheese, Nielson’s is for you. It’s a stylish wine bar with artisan cheeses, small plates, and charcuterie boards. The cheese board with figs will complement any glass of wine—it’s delightful.

Why It’s Worth a Visit:

• Great variety of wine and cheese pairings.
• Relaxed casual atmosphere with a relaxed vibe to unwind and spend your evening over wines.

Caffènation ☕

If you love coffee, Caffènation is definitely the best specialty coffee shop in Amsterdam. From flat whites to nitro cold brews, Caffènation fuels you for your exciting day in the city.

Why You Must Go:

• One of the best specialty coffee shops in Amsterdam.
• A cozy minimalist café where you can take a break.
• Beautifully crafted coffee by expert baristas.

To Conclude:

Amsterdam’s café and restaurant scene is a reflection of the city: exciting, warm, and full of surprises. From local spots that serve classic Dutch fare to spots serving international cuisine, you can find something to fit everyone’s belly. If you are a foodie or simply enjoy a good meal, this guide to 50 Amsterdam restaurants and cafés is your best friend. Whether you are having one of those lovely long brunches, enjoying an evening with friends, or exploring an off-the-beaten-path spot, these restaurants will ensure you have an amazing experience in Amsterdam. So, choose one (or all!) and enjoy the delicious experience of Amsterdam food culture!

My Takeaway:

Having lived in Amsterdam for several years, I believe the food scene is one of the things that make this city special. From pancakes by the canals to cool specialty coffee shops that serve you world-class coffee, I was fortunate to experience it all. I find it magical to explore a restaurant you have never been to before and enjoy dishes that reflect the heart of the city. Each meal tells a story about a restaurant, and each café or restaurant adds their character/vibe that embraces the experience of being in Amsterdam, and as a visitor to this city, I encourage you to delve into the local food culture, as it’s one of the best ways to authentically enjoy what this city offers. Enjoy your meal!