With renowned artists, distinctive architecture and windmill-filled landscapes, The Netherlands is a destination that simply oozes culture. The colourful capital in particular has long been a popular destination, especially for travellers looking for a tasty meal while they’re away. Today, Amsterdam can proudly call itself home to some of the best restaurants on the continent, making it the perfect destination for foodie families.
Whether you’re determined to sample the very best of Dutch cuisine or like to be adventurous when it comes to your dining experiences, this city is sure to have something to excite even the pickiest of eaters. Have a browse through these top five restaurants in Amsterdam and set your taste buds tingling.
Restaurant Greetje
The Dutch may be better known for their paintings than their appetiser plates, but that’s a preconception that’s about to change thanks to establishments such as Greetje. This is where the old classics are taken and revived to transform them into something enticing and simply delicious. While krokets and poffertjes might be what the standard traveller orders, more adventurous folk will be making their way to this restaurant to get a real, local taste of the Netherlands.
New King
As all experienced foodies will know, if there’s a queue outside, it’s probably good – and that’s just the case with this Chinese eatery. Far from a standard Chinese takeaway, New King is the place to go when the cravings hit. Serving big portions with even bigger flavours, it’s the perfect solution when the younger ones start to complain, “I’m hungry” after a day of exploring. Although you’ll be tempted to order more than you need, be sure that some roasted duck is on your plate as this is the restaurant’s speciality.
Top Tip: Stick out the 45-minute wait. It’s worth it, I promise.
Visaandeschelde
Located a little off-the-beaten-track, only diehard seafood lovers will journey to this eatery – and they’re certainly in for a treat. Think fresh oysters, juicy crayfish and meaty monkfish, all cooked to perfection. Visaandeschelde is the perfect choice for those looking for a more refined evening. Dishes display pleasingly complex flavours, such as haddock and scallops with crispy-fried pata negra ham, black venus rice made with squid-ink and foam sauce. The atmosphere matches the formal plate names so perhaps save this for a special evening – and older kids!
De Kas
The building alone makes De Kas a place to remember. The giant glasshouse is divided into two sections: a restaurant and an actual greenhouse used for growing fruit and vegetables that end up on diner’s plates. However, it’s not just the architecture that gives De Kas its ‘wow’ factor. The food, which is distinctively fresh, organic and generally healthy, keeps customers returning again and again. Anything that isn’t grown in-house is carefully sourced from businesses in the surrounding region. If you’re looking for a way to get the kids to eat their vegetables, taking them to De Kas is a great opportunity.
La Oliva
There’s a reason why most people love Spanish food: the simple flavours are classically moreish, and this certainly won’t be changing anytime soon. Tapas culture has taken off all over the world and it’s definitely alive and well in Amsterdam. Pintxos y vinos (Basque-style tapas and wine) is the premise behind the delightful La Oliva, which serves the best tapas in the city. Take your pick from the tasty bites on show at the bar – you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. For the adults, there’s an extensive wine list to browse, showcasing the very best to pair with each of your dishes.
Top Tip: For something a little more substantial there’s also a regular menu for mains. Try the seared tuna skewer served with foie gras and a seductive sherry reduction.
Where to Stay
Pestana Amsterdam Riverside – This luxury 5-star hotel is excellently located on the river, offering a number of top-class facilities, including a fitness centre, spa and massage services and its own restaurant. All rooms are air-conditioned and come complete with free Wi-Fi, TVs and en suites.
Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky – A 5-star modern hotel in the centre of the city boasting its own grand cafe and winter garden. Rooms are spacious and stylish, equipped with en suites and of course, free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
There are daily flights from the UK to Amsterdam airport. Transport to the capital is easy and accessible from arrivals, however, I’d recommend organising a shuttle service with Shuttle Direct before you travel. From Amsterdam airport, transport is hassle-free with a pre-booked taxi service and is the best way to start your holiday.
Overview
- UK to AMS Flight Time: 1 hour
- AMS to Amsterdam Centre Distance: 17 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 23 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct provides pre-bookable airport transfer services in Europe and Northern Africa with reliable drivers. Ensuring that you get to your destination safely and smoothly, our drivers take pride in offering the best customer service.
