A Local's Advice on Amsterdam - where to stay/eat/and play
After living here for three years, this is a curated collection of my favorite restaurants and bars. I have broken it out by general neighborhood so you can find places based on where you are staying/spending the day.
65 Places • 45 Saves • ago
Free
Hotel Recommendations
High-End - can't go wrong with any of these beautiful properties
Pulitzer Amsterdam
@haleysangster
A unique hotel in the middle of bustling Jordaan. The hotel is made up of an entire city block of houses acquired through the years - Pulitzer bar is my ultimate favorite hotel bar with a huge courtyard for drinks/lunch/dinner. Speakeasy bar for cocktails as well. Make a reservation for the outdoor seating and PERFECT for a sunny, long lunch
Add to
Details
W Amsterdam
@haleysangster
Near Dam square, couldn’t be better located. Great rooms with a funky style, and a very chic spa. There is also a wonderful rooftop bar and pool.
Add to
Details
Conservatorium Hotel
@haleysangster
Stunning hotel near Museumplein with an incredible spa, multiple restaurants, and huge rooms
Add to
Details
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht - a Concept by Hyatt
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of my favorite hotel bars. There is a restaurant with food or you can sit in the lounge and have drinks. Check the website for live music schedule!
Add to
Details
Kimpton De Witt
@haleysangster
Attached to one of my favorite hotel bars and has an amazing restaurant
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Hotels
Ambassade Hotel
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Amsterdam Canal Hotel
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Hotel Estherea
@haleysangster
Gorgeous canal-side hotel with a private bar only for hotel guests. Each room is uniquely decorated. You really feel like you are in the heart of Amsterdam
Add to
Details
INK Hotel Amsterdam - MGallery
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Zoku Amsterdam
@haleysangster
The perfect hotel if you need space to work remote. Each room is set up with a desk space and the top floor is an incredible co-working area with great vibe
Add to
Details
Activity Recommendations
Add to
Details
House of Bols, the Cocktail & Genever Experience
@haleysangster
Unique activity to pair with a Moco Museum tour - the museum experience ends with a cocktail in a unique bar!
Add to
Details
Welkom bij Classic Boat Dinners - high end dinner in a beautiful canal boat
www.classicboatdinners.nl
De Pijp Recommendations
De Pijp
@haleysangster
Lively neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, and the famous Albert Cuyp Market
Add to
Details
Higher-End Restaurants
Café Caron
@haleysangster
Hidden gem on a quaint neighborhood street - French food, small menu that has been perfected and if the weather's nice, book a table outside (Need a reservation)
Add to
Details
Maris Piper Brasserie
@haleysangster
Meat & Seafood restaurant perfect for a special occasion or celebration. White tablecloth, incredible service, and cozy ambiance
Add to
Details
De Waaghals
@haleysangster
Coursed Vegan/Vegetarian menu - amazing food and experience even if you are not either of those. Fresh ingredients rotating on seasonality and cozy atmosphere
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Restaurants
Kaasbar Amsterdam
@haleysangster
If you love cheese - this is your place. Cheese conveyer belt to satisfy any cheesy night out!
Add to
Details
Bar Bellini
@haleysangster
Italian restaurants with 70s retro vibes - amazing cocktails and pasta dishes
Add to
Details
Mana Mana - De Pijp
@haleysangster
If you love Mediterranean food, this should be on your list. Hummus & cauliflower are to die for. Really yummy cocktails to pair as well
Add to
Details
Sjefietshé
@haleysangster
Along one of the neighborhood canals, this restaurant is always packed. Serving different types of ceviche & daily specials. Would recommend a reservation
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Rainbowls Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of the must-haves if you are craving a healthy lunch or breakfast. They aren't speedy, but they put love into every bowl.
Add to
Details
Linguini de Pijp
@haleysangster
Homemade pasta, super cozy ambiance, serve the pasta still in the pan!
Add to
Details
Wine Bars
Rayleigh & Ramsay Van Wou
@haleysangster
Interact wine bar where you have a card to pour your glasses of wine. Saturdays they have dollar oysters
Add to
Details
La Dilettante Amsterdam - Natural Wine Bar
@haleysangster
Stop in for a glass of natural wine - owner knows so much about his product and is really fun to chat with
Add to
Details
Oud West
Add to
Details
Higher-End Restaurants
Night Kitchen Amsterdam
@haleysangster
AMAZING restaurant that is really fun with bigger groups - highly recommend the "dinner with friends" menu for 50 EUR pp. They will keep bringing courses out until you are full and it is family-style dining.
Add to
Details
De Italiaan
@haleysangster
Neighborhood Italian restaurant with big patio covered by trees. Make a reservation and enjoy delicious pizza/pasta dishes. Cozy/quaint ambiance
Add to
Details
Gustatio oud west
@haleysangster
Another Italian restaurant with top-notch food - my favorite pasta dish in Amsterdam. Cacio e pepe is one of the best I have ever had.
Add to
Details
Casual Restaurants
Proeflokaal 't Blauwe Theehuis
@haleysangster
Great place to grab a drink inside Vondelpark - food isn't anything special but can be easy for a snack. On a sunny day it gets afternoon sun - no reservations needed
Add to
Details
De Vondeltuin
@haleysangster
Another restaurant/bar inside Vondelpark. Really cute at night with patio lights.
Add to
Details
Miuz Gelato & Coffee
@haleysangster
BEST gelato - rotating flavors based on what ingredients are in season. Highly recommend the vanilla & strawberry
Add to
Details
Jordaan Recommendations
Add to
Details
Higher-End Restaurants
Pesca Vis Seafood Restaurant Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of my favorite restaurants in Amsterdam for experiential dining. Reservation needed and you must LOVE seafood
Add to
Details
Mesiba
@haleysangster
Could not recommend ENOUGH!!! Such a good vibe, amazing middle eastern food, huge disco ball and turns into more of a party vibe the later the night goes
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Fiaschetteria “Pistoia”
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Rafi
@haleysangster
BEST PASTA IN AMSTERDAM. Cozy little restaurant in a busy neighborhood. Hot tip - if you are across the street in the bar called "Palm Springs" you can order their food and have it delivered!
Add to
Details
o bistro
@haleysangster
One of the highest rated French restaurants in the city - adorable outdoor seating on a nice day
Add to
Details
Casual Restaurants
d&a hummus bistro
@haleysangster
Some of the best hummus I have ever had - make sure to get the spicy sauce as well. Three locations in Amsterdam and all three are high quality
Add to
Details
Winkel 43
@haleysangster
Famous apple pie - HUGE slice so splitting may be necessary - definitely get the whipped cream
Add to
Details
De Noordermarkt Kantine
@haleysangster
Saturday market in a big square - highly recommend walking around. Food trucks are available (get the pork belly) and amazing grocery/flower selection
Add to
Details
Café Thijssen
@haleysangster
Canal side bar perfect for a drink! Not much food but great spot for beers
Add to
Details
Bar Parry
@haleysangster
Small menu with sharing dishes and huge wine selection. Very cozy and reservations are usually necessary for weekend nights
Add to
Details
Canal Ring Recommendations
Higher-End Restaurants
Bistro Suzette
@haleysangster
Gorgeous restaurant along the canal. Great ambiance, service, and high-quality food
Add to
Details
Ceppi's
@haleysangster
Yet another amazing Italian restaurant, really amazing vibe and high quality food and cocktails
Add to
Details
Secret Garden
@haleysangster
Very trendy new restaurant. Need a reservation and can either sit in the drink/dj/bar area or the restaurant. VERY instagramable
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of my favorite hotel bars. There is a restaurant with food or you can sit in the lounge and have drinks. Check the website for live music schedule!
Add to
Details
Pulitzer Amsterdam
@haleysangster
A unique hotel in the middle of bustling Jordaan. The hotel is made up of an entire city block of houses acquired through the years - Pulitzer bar is my ultimate favorite hotel bar with a huge courtyard for drinks/lunch/dinner. Speakeasy bar for cocktails as well. Make a reservation for the outdoor seating and PERFECT for a sunny, long lunch
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Restaurants
Shiraz Jardin des Vins
@haleysangster
If you only go to one place on this list - GO HERE!!! No reservations taken so you may have to wait a few minutes for a table. It is right on the canal so amazing tables on a sunny day. On a rainy day, cozy ambiance with candles and cute corner tables. Get the risotto and try ALL the wine
Add to
Details
Bar Dó
@haleysangster
Perfect place for a casual lunch - great sandwiches/pizza/cocktails. Always buzzing with people & have outdoor seating
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Zero Zero
@haleysangster
Grab and go sandwiches on focaccia bread - everyone in the city is obsessed right now!!
Add to
Details
Bars
Duke of Tokyo
@haleysangster
Very fun bar with themed cocktails - you can also rent private karaoke rooms (must do that in advance). It is on the Pride street so tons of other bars in walking distance if you start your night here!
Add to
Details
Café de Jaren
@haleysangster
One of the best quintessential "Amsterdam view spots" they don't take reservations so walk all the way back and wait for a table when you enter. Service is slow and food isn't great so just stay for the drinks and the view on a sunny day :)
Add to
Details
Freddy's Bar
@haleysangster
High-end cocktail bar, close to Cafe de Jaren. Amazing service and great, fancy vibe
Add to
Details
Bar Oldenhof
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Noord Recommendations
Higher-End Restaurant
Hangar Amsterdam
@haleysangster
If you find yourself in Noord - this is a unique place along the Amstel River to have a delicious dinner
Add to
Details
Helling 7
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Restaurant
Chateau Amsterdam
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Pllek
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
* * *
CURATED BY
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support Haley Sangster’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Read more about places in this guide
A Local's Advice on Amsterdam - where to stay/eat/and play
After living here for three years, this is a curated collection of my favorite restaurants and bars. I have broken it out by general neighborhood so you can find places based on where you are staying/spending the day.
65 Places • 45 Saves • ago
Free
Hotel Recommendations
High-End - can't go wrong with any of these beautiful properties
Pulitzer Amsterdam
@haleysangster
A unique hotel in the middle of bustling Jordaan. The hotel is made up of an entire city block of houses acquired through the years - Pulitzer bar is my ultimate favorite hotel bar with a huge courtyard for drinks/lunch/dinner. Speakeasy bar for cocktails as well. Make a reservation for the outdoor seating and PERFECT for a sunny, long lunch
Add to
Details
W Amsterdam
@haleysangster
Near Dam square, couldn’t be better located. Great rooms with a funky style, and a very chic spa. There is also a wonderful rooftop bar and pool.
Add to
Details
Conservatorium Hotel
@haleysangster
Stunning hotel near Museumplein with an incredible spa, multiple restaurants, and huge rooms
Add to
Details
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht - a Concept by Hyatt
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of my favorite hotel bars. There is a restaurant with food or you can sit in the lounge and have drinks. Check the website for live music schedule!
Add to
Details
Kimpton De Witt
@haleysangster
Attached to one of my favorite hotel bars and has an amazing restaurant
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Hotels
Ambassade Hotel
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Amsterdam Canal Hotel
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Hotel Estherea
@haleysangster
Gorgeous canal-side hotel with a private bar only for hotel guests. Each room is uniquely decorated. You really feel like you are in the heart of Amsterdam
Add to
Details
INK Hotel Amsterdam - MGallery
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Zoku Amsterdam
@haleysangster
The perfect hotel if you need space to work remote. Each room is set up with a desk space and the top floor is an incredible co-working area with great vibe
Add to
Details
Activity Recommendations
Add to
Details
House of Bols, the Cocktail & Genever Experience
@haleysangster
Unique activity to pair with a Moco Museum tour - the museum experience ends with a cocktail in a unique bar!
Add to
Details
Welkom bij Classic Boat Dinners - high end dinner in a beautiful canal boat
www.classicboatdinners.nl
De Pijp Recommendations
De Pijp
@haleysangster
Lively neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, and the famous Albert Cuyp Market
Add to
Details
Higher-End Restaurants
Café Caron
@haleysangster
Hidden gem on a quaint neighborhood street - French food, small menu that has been perfected and if the weather's nice, book a table outside (Need a reservation)
Add to
Details
Maris Piper Brasserie
@haleysangster
Meat & Seafood restaurant perfect for a special occasion or celebration. White tablecloth, incredible service, and cozy ambiance
Add to
Details
De Waaghals
@haleysangster
Coursed Vegan/Vegetarian menu - amazing food and experience even if you are not either of those. Fresh ingredients rotating on seasonality and cozy atmosphere
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Restaurants
Kaasbar Amsterdam
@haleysangster
If you love cheese - this is your place. Cheese conveyer belt to satisfy any cheesy night out!
Add to
Details
Bar Bellini
@haleysangster
Italian restaurants with 70s retro vibes - amazing cocktails and pasta dishes
Add to
Details
Mana Mana - De Pijp
@haleysangster
If you love Mediterranean food, this should be on your list. Hummus & cauliflower are to die for. Really yummy cocktails to pair as well
Add to
Details
Sjefietshé
@haleysangster
Along one of the neighborhood canals, this restaurant is always packed. Serving different types of ceviche & daily specials. Would recommend a reservation
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Rainbowls Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of the must-haves if you are craving a healthy lunch or breakfast. They aren't speedy, but they put love into every bowl.
Add to
Details
Linguini de Pijp
@haleysangster
Homemade pasta, super cozy ambiance, serve the pasta still in the pan!
Add to
Details
Wine Bars
Rayleigh & Ramsay Van Wou
@haleysangster
Interact wine bar where you have a card to pour your glasses of wine. Saturdays they have dollar oysters
Add to
Details
La Dilettante Amsterdam - Natural Wine Bar
@haleysangster
Stop in for a glass of natural wine - owner knows so much about his product and is really fun to chat with
Add to
Details
Oud West
Add to
Details
Higher-End Restaurants
Night Kitchen Amsterdam
@haleysangster
AMAZING restaurant that is really fun with bigger groups - highly recommend the "dinner with friends" menu for 50 EUR pp. They will keep bringing courses out until you are full and it is family-style dining.
Add to
Details
De Italiaan
@haleysangster
Neighborhood Italian restaurant with big patio covered by trees. Make a reservation and enjoy delicious pizza/pasta dishes. Cozy/quaint ambiance
Add to
Details
Gustatio oud west
@haleysangster
Another Italian restaurant with top-notch food - my favorite pasta dish in Amsterdam. Cacio e pepe is one of the best I have ever had.
Add to
Details
Casual Restaurants
Proeflokaal 't Blauwe Theehuis
@haleysangster
Great place to grab a drink inside Vondelpark - food isn't anything special but can be easy for a snack. On a sunny day it gets afternoon sun - no reservations needed
Add to
Details
De Vondeltuin
@haleysangster
Another restaurant/bar inside Vondelpark. Really cute at night with patio lights.
Add to
Details
Miuz Gelato & Coffee
@haleysangster
BEST gelato - rotating flavors based on what ingredients are in season. Highly recommend the vanilla & strawberry
Add to
Details
Jordaan Recommendations
Add to
Details
Higher-End Restaurants
Pesca Vis Seafood Restaurant Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of my favorite restaurants in Amsterdam for experiential dining. Reservation needed and you must LOVE seafood
Add to
Details
Mesiba
@haleysangster
Could not recommend ENOUGH!!! Such a good vibe, amazing middle eastern food, huge disco ball and turns into more of a party vibe the later the night goes
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Fiaschetteria “Pistoia”
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Rafi
@haleysangster
BEST PASTA IN AMSTERDAM. Cozy little restaurant in a busy neighborhood. Hot tip - if you are across the street in the bar called "Palm Springs" you can order their food and have it delivered!
Add to
Details
o bistro
@haleysangster
One of the highest rated French restaurants in the city - adorable outdoor seating on a nice day
Add to
Details
Casual Restaurants
d&a hummus bistro
@haleysangster
Some of the best hummus I have ever had - make sure to get the spicy sauce as well. Three locations in Amsterdam and all three are high quality
Add to
Details
Winkel 43
@haleysangster
Famous apple pie - HUGE slice so splitting may be necessary - definitely get the whipped cream
Add to
Details
De Noordermarkt Kantine
@haleysangster
Saturday market in a big square - highly recommend walking around. Food trucks are available (get the pork belly) and amazing grocery/flower selection
Add to
Details
Café Thijssen
@haleysangster
Canal side bar perfect for a drink! Not much food but great spot for beers
Add to
Details
Bar Parry
@haleysangster
Small menu with sharing dishes and huge wine selection. Very cozy and reservations are usually necessary for weekend nights
Add to
Details
Canal Ring Recommendations
Higher-End Restaurants
Bistro Suzette
@haleysangster
Gorgeous restaurant along the canal. Great ambiance, service, and high-quality food
Add to
Details
Ceppi's
@haleysangster
Yet another amazing Italian restaurant, really amazing vibe and high quality food and cocktails
Add to
Details
Secret Garden
@haleysangster
Very trendy new restaurant. Need a reservation and can either sit in the drink/dj/bar area or the restaurant. VERY instagramable
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
@haleysangster
One of my favorite hotel bars. There is a restaurant with food or you can sit in the lounge and have drinks. Check the website for live music schedule!
Add to
Details
Pulitzer Amsterdam
@haleysangster
A unique hotel in the middle of bustling Jordaan. The hotel is made up of an entire city block of houses acquired through the years - Pulitzer bar is my ultimate favorite hotel bar with a huge courtyard for drinks/lunch/dinner. Speakeasy bar for cocktails as well. Make a reservation for the outdoor seating and PERFECT for a sunny, long lunch
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Restaurants
Shiraz Jardin des Vins
@haleysangster
If you only go to one place on this list - GO HERE!!! No reservations taken so you may have to wait a few minutes for a table. It is right on the canal so amazing tables on a sunny day. On a rainy day, cozy ambiance with candles and cute corner tables. Get the risotto and try ALL the wine
Add to
Details
Bar Dó
@haleysangster
Perfect place for a casual lunch - great sandwiches/pizza/cocktails. Always buzzing with people & have outdoor seating
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Zero Zero
@haleysangster
Grab and go sandwiches on focaccia bread - everyone in the city is obsessed right now!!
Add to
Details
Bars
Duke of Tokyo
@haleysangster
Very fun bar with themed cocktails - you can also rent private karaoke rooms (must do that in advance). It is on the Pride street so tons of other bars in walking distance if you start your night here!
Add to
Details
Café de Jaren
@haleysangster
One of the best quintessential "Amsterdam view spots" they don't take reservations so walk all the way back and wait for a table when you enter. Service is slow and food isn't great so just stay for the drinks and the view on a sunny day :)
Add to
Details
Freddy's Bar
@haleysangster
High-end cocktail bar, close to Cafe de Jaren. Amazing service and great, fancy vibe
Add to
Details
Bar Oldenhof
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Noord Recommendations
Higher-End Restaurant
Hangar Amsterdam
@haleysangster
If you find yourself in Noord - this is a unique place along the Amstel River to have a delicious dinner
Add to
Details
Helling 7
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Mid-Tier Restaurant
Chateau Amsterdam
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Pllek
@haleysangster
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
* * *
CURATED BY
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support Haley Sangster’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Read more about places in this guide