In the vibrant food scene of Amsterdam, Restaurant ARIE stands out with its cozy atmosphere and a menu packed with generously filled sandwiches. Our visit to ARIE left us with mixed feelings—impressed by the food but let down by some aspects of the service. Here’s a closer look at our experience.
The Sandwiches: Flavorful and Satisfying
Our meal at ARIE was centered around a selection of their sandwiches, each offering a unique and tasty experience.
We started with the mackerel sandwich, which was generously stuffed with flavorful mackerel. This option stood out for its fresh and robust taste, making it a delightful choice for seafood lovers.
Next up was the croque madame. This sandwich was not only delicious but also impressively large. The combination of ham, cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg made for a satisfying and hearty meal that lived up to its name.
We also tried the melanzane sandwich, which did not disappoint. The eggplant was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were well-balanced, making it another tasty option on the menu.
The cheese steak sandwich was the final one we sampled. It was juicy and packed with flavor, a true indulgence for anyone craving a rich and savory sandwich.
In addition to the sandwiches, we ordered some steak fries to share. While they were tasty, the portion size was surprisingly small, especially considering the price and the generous portions of the sandwiches. It felt like just a few bites, which was a bit disappointing compared to the other dishes.
Service: Needs Improvement
Our experience with the service at ARIE began on a confusing note. Upon arrival, we had to inform one staff member of our reservation details and then repeat the same information to another staff member, while the first one walked away without saying anything (she asked us about the reservation details) This redundant process could be streamlined for a smoother customer experience.
Although our food and drink orders were taken promptly, there was a significant delay before the food arrived. We ended up ordering three rounds of drinks before our sandwiches were finally served, resulting in more than an hour’s wait. This extended wait time for sandwiches was quite frustrating.
Menu and Availability Issues
The menu at ARIE prominently features dishes with eggs. Unfortunately, after we placed our order, we were informed that they had run out of eggs. This critical information should have been communicated upfront to avoid disappointment and the need to choose alternative dishes.
Atmosphere: Cozy and Inviting
Despite the service issues, ARIE has a lot to offer in terms of ambiance. The staff, although somewhat disorganized, were friendly and approachable. The restaurant itself is a charming spot, ideal for enjoying a meal inside or on the terrace, providing a pleasant backdrop for a casual dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Restaurant ARIE in Amsterdam delivers when it comes to the quality and flavor of its sandwiches. The mackerel, croque madame, melanzane, and cheese steak sandwiches were all delicious and generously filled. However, the service could benefit from better organization and communication, and the portion size of the steak fries was disappointingly small for the price.
If you plan to visit ARIE, go for the tasty sandwiches and the inviting atmosphere. Be prepared for possible delays and check on ingredient availability upfront. With some improvements, ARIE has the potential to be a standout spot in Amsterdam’s dining scene.
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Review: 7.8/10
Price / Quality: 7.5 | Service: 7 | Atmosphere: 7.5 | Originality: 8 | Freshness: 10 | Choice: 7
