Amsterdam, the vibrant and diverse capital of the Netherlands, is a city known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a rich cultural heritage. However, it’s not just its scenic beauty and cultural attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Amsterdam is also a food lover’s paradise, with a thriving culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. In this guide, I will take you on a gastronomic journey through the city, highlighting my top 9 lunch spots you must visit during your stay in Amsterdam.
1. Slowth Brunch:
Slowth Brunch is a hidden gem that offers a unique and flavorful experience. The restaurant specializes in Taiwanese cuisine, making it the perfect spot for a late breakfast or lunch. As a Dutch person, I’ve often found myself sticking to the routine of grabbing a simple sandwich for breakfast. Still, Slowth Brunch encouraged me to explore the diverse world of lunch options Amsterdam has to offer.
The restaurant’s cozy ambiance is accentuated by its “slowth” theme, which invites you to savor each moment and every dish. Slowth Brunch is more than a meal; it’s an experience that encourages you to slow down, enjoy the journey, and explore the culinary wonders of Taiwan.
One of the standout items on their menu is the duck pancake. These savory delights are a must-try and exemplify the fusion of flavors that Slowth Brunch is known for. The tender duck combines perfectly with traditional Taiwanese seasonings and the spring onion pancake adds an extra touch of flavor, creating a dish that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Teds is a name that has probably crossed your ears multiple times when discussing the best places to eat in Amsterdam. It’s not uncommon for popular eateries to fall short of the lofty expectations generated by the buzz, but Teds stands out as an exception.
Located in several prime spots, Teds offers an extensive and diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, Teds has you covered. The menu boasts an array of mouthwatering options, from chicken donuts to steak and cheese sandwiches and they even offer a high tea, with smaller versions of their most populair items.
One of the aspects that sets Teds apart is its ability to provide a consistently satisfying dining experience. It has earned its reputation as a go-to spot when you’re not in the mood for experimentation and simply want a meal that you know will hit the spot.
For those who prefer a more adventurous and dynamic lunch experience, the Albert Cuyp Market is a must-visit destination. This bustling open-air market, located in the heart of Amsterdam, feels like a daily food festival where you can sample a wide variety of culinary delights at relatively affordable prices (by Amsterdam standards).
The market offers a diverse range of food vendors, and trying out different cuisines and flavors is a delightful experience. While exploring the market, I recently decided to give Monsieur a try, and I must admit that their grilled cheese sandwiches are a hidden gem.
The Albert Cuyp Market provides an array of options, from traditional Dutch stroopwafels to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, fresh seafood to refreshing juices, and even international dishes like bao buns and Mexican cuisine. It’s essential to check the weather before planning your visit since it’s an outdoor market.
Jen’s Bing is another delightful Taiwanese café that offers an extensive menu of mouthwatering dishes. If you’re looking to break away from the routine of sandwiches for lunch, this is the place to be. The menu includes filled spring onion pancakes, noodle dishes, rice dishes, bao buns, and a diverse selection of bubble tea. Jen’s Bing is a haven for those seeking a culinary adventure beyond the ordinary.
The ambiance at Jen’s Bing is cozy and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for indulging in Taiwanese specialties. Whether you’re a fan of savory or sweet dishes, you’ll find lots of options to satisfy your cravings.
For a unique dining experience, look no further than Market 27, situated at Station Noord. This urban food station offers an intriguing blend of culinary delights, from cocktails and sandwiches to fries, sushi, and more. Despite its location within the station, the atmosphere inside is warm and inviting, and there’s an impressive array of dishes to choose from.
Market 27 is the perfect spot for those looking to embark on a culinary adventure. The diverse menu caters to various tastes, ensuring that every visitor finds something that tantalizes their palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, Market 27 has something to offer.
Dignita Hoftuin may not have been the first place that came to mind when thinking about lunch spots in Amsterdam, but it’s a hidden treasure worth exploring. Situated in a lovely garden setting, Dignita Hoftuin offers a cozy lunch spot to enjoy the sun during the summer months.
What sets Dignita Hoftuin apart is its innovative approach to brunch dishes. They provide a unique twist to traditional items by offering alternatives like serving your meal on a rosti instead of the usual sandwich. The menu also features a variety of cocktails and other delectable beverages to complement your meal.
Dignita Hoftuin offers a serene escape from the bustling city, making it the ideal spot to unwind and savor a delightful meal in a picturesque setting.
The Lobby Fizeaustraat is a restaurant that exudes sophistication and culinary elegance. The restaurant’s menu is ever-evolving, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting. The ambiance is as impressive as the menu, making it a perfect choice for a memorable dining experience.
The menu at The Lobby Fizeaustraat features a diverse range of dishes, from tuna brioche with duck liver to pulled pork burgers. The dessert menu is equally enticing, and it’s hard to resist indulging in options like the cardamom crème brûlée, which is an absolute delight for the taste buds. Their crème brûlée was one of the best and the biggest I have ever had. And I tried lots of them. The Lobby has an open kitchen, so you can even have a look at how everything you order is freshly made.
If you’re a truffle enthusiast, Truffle Boutique is the place to be. This charming café, located on Overtoom, offers a menu filled with dishes that cater to both lunch and dinner. Most of these dishes are infused with the rich and indulgent flavor of truffle.
The meat lovers’ grilled cheese is a standout item on their menu, and I’ve been drawn back to it on multiple occasions due to its exceptional taste. Additionally, the lobster roll with truffle is a dish that perfectly balances softness, freshness, and tantalizing flavor.
Truffle Boutique offers a culinary adventure that will satisfy your truffle cravings and leave you craving more. It is a small restaurant so I suggest to make a reservation before you go.
9. Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam:
Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam is the perfect destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated by the water, this café provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere. They serve lots of different dishes which makes it the perfect destination for shared dining. From a cheese board, to oysters, lobster and crab, but also more regular items like a sandwich with a croquette, they have everything for a resonable price.
