The Top 10 Eats in Amsterdam

Our Local Expert Says:

Best meal under 10 euros.

Description:

Situated in a lofty and spacious former church, Bazar captures the atmosphere of a North-African market place with its décor and fusion of foods from Arabic countries. Located along the city's largest outdoor market, which is also a popular nightlife area, you will find couples as well as rowdy groups of friends starting their night out here. While the service is average for the Netherlands, the inexpensive and varied menu of delicious foods more than makes up for it.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best view in Chinatown

Description:

Bird first opened its snackbar at Zeedijk 77 in 1993, part of a new influx of Asian eateries taking over the formerly shady area of Amsterdam which is now known as the city's "China town." In 1998 they opened this restaurant across the street. Popular with locals and tourists alike, visitors can enjoy a Thai atmosphere and staff to acompany their traditional Thai dishes.

Description:

When you visit Amsterdam, you must simply visit one of the city's many pancake houses and discover of the possibilities for pancakes that we ignore stateside (pancakes are a dinner meal in this city, by the way). When you are tired of the traditional Dutch pancake houses, there's Pancakes! The offbeat menu fits the nature of its '9 little streets' location and offers pancakes themed on different countries around the world. For homesick Americans, they even offer a fluffy American variety with real maple syrup--but visitors to the city should take advantage of the more adventurous options on the menu. While the decor is a bit plain and the restaurant closes a bit early, this is truly a place that is about the food.

Description:

This rather large Indonesian restaurant, in which all food is authentically prepared, is located in the very heart of Amsterdam. Both the interior and the cuisine are reflections of the rich Indonesian culinary tradition. The original sate platters are excellent, with five different ones available. Main courses include various red meat, chicken, egg, fish or vegetable dishes as well as the traditional nasi or bami dishes. Particularly noteworthy are their rice-tables.

Description:

If you're thinking freshly baked homemade pancakes, then head here. What's more inviting is the ambience in which you can feast on, at a gabled canal house. The friendly wait staff is more than eager to help you out and get you your order. The menu features items like Pancake with Cheese, Sunflower Seeds, Onions and Mushrooms and dessert items including Hot Cherry, Vanilla Ice Cream, Cherry Liqueur and Whipped Cream Pancake—could ask for more pancake options?

Our Local Expert Says:

Best View

Description:

The chic interiors boast of mirrored walls and yes that is an advantage—it gives you a clear picture of your cute neighbor seated behind. High ceilings, brick red walls and drinks stacked right up give Jaren an ultra chic look. Try the Moroccan broodjes or select from the scrumptious salads from the salad bar. Do go for the Salade de Crabe—a much recommended salad of this cafe.

Description:

Tokyo Café is the Japanese restaurant with the best all you can eat sushi in town. Located in Spui, near the city's busy shopping street, it is a popular restaurant amongst locals. Come with your friends for a lively all you can eat session, which happen Monday through Thursday, with an 6pm and 8.15 pm sitting, or any time and order a la carte.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Best Apple Pie in Town

Description:

Winkel 43 is a small café tucked away in the corner of the Noordermarkt. On a market day you can go shopping at all the interesting arts & crafts and food stalls, or at one of the many small shops in the neighborhood. But make sure you stop at Winkel 43 or you'll miss out on the best apple pie in town. This title is bestowed on the pie by the Dutch themselves, so the place is always packed.

Description:

Ctaste allows you to experience your food in a whole new way with the latest dining trend sweeping Europe. At Ctaste you will be dining in pitch-black, which will give you an opportunity to experience dining in a whole new way. You will be surprised with a 3 course meal that will have your taste buds guessing. Don't let the idea scare you; you are guided and served by a visually impaired individual on this unique adventure.

Description:

This hip bar/pub is a popular spot for the trendy youth of the city, and it shows! As the evening progresses and tables become scarce and dining service can crawl. But with posh yet funky decor (including bright red walls and comfortable sofas) and loud music, Kamer 401 has established itself among the other modern lounges in the Leidseplein area. Stop by after a show or before heading out to the clubs-- and if hunger strikes, you can grab some Italian fare with your martini.