Cover Wils
Wils
1 / 1
We take an inside look at Amsterdam’s culinary scene
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most quietly compelling cities. While often overshadowed by culinary giants like France, or Italy, the Dutch capital has steadily evolved into a destination with its own gastronomic identity—one that is subtle, soulful, and steeped in heritage. Positioned conveniently at the crossroads of Europe, Amsterdam offers more than just picturesque canals and art museums. It is experiencing a culinary renaissance rooted in sustainability, heritage, and quiet innovation.
Whether it is open-flame fine dining or hearty Indonesian fare, this city celebrates flavour in all its forms. Here is a local guide to six spots that reflect Amsterdam’s layered food identity—each one offering a taste of how the city is redefining what it means to dine well in the Netherlands.
See also: Joris Bijdendijk: The Dutch chef who does it all
Wils
1 / 1
Helmed by chef Joris Bijdendijk, Wils is one of Amsterdam’s most sustainability-forward restaurants. Located atop the Olympic Stadium, the restaurant embraces primal fire cooking, with dishes seared by flames from an open fire. The restaurant reflects a conscious philosophy where bread is sourced from the in-house bakery downstairs, and herbs come from its rooftop garden. Even the cooling system is hydrating and energy-efficient. The signature sepia dish is a masterclass in texture and smoke — fragrant, umami-rich, and layered with finesse.
Wils, Stadionplein 26, 1076 CM Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 236 6522
Spectrum
Endlessly inventive, Spectrum is where chef Sidney Schutte redefines fine dining through texture, contrast, and curiosity. His time in Hong Kong adds a surprising Asian edge to a foundation of Dutch ingredients. Dishes like mochi topped with caviar or crisp crackers layered with gels and foams aren’t just playful; they’re deeply thoughtful. Expect a sensory journey that’s both educational in bending your mind and most importantly, extremely delicious.
Spectrum, Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, Herengracht 542, 556, 1017 CG Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 718 4635
Read more: What went down at the Tatler Best Takeover Series in Kuala Lumpur
Euro Pizza
Above Euro Pizza
Euro Pizza
1 / 1
Tucked into a converted garage in Amsterdam-Noord, Euro Pizza is worth the ferry ride across the IJ. Born during the pandemic, Rein Op ‘t Root and his team started with fun, flavor-forward pizza that quickly earned cult status. Their offerings are non-traditional, boldly flavored, and locally beloved. Don’t miss the Bolognese–Comté pizza or the seasonal starter of raw fish and kiwi salad.
Euro Pizza, Gedempt Hamerkanaal 79, 1021 KP Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 895 0843
In case you missed it: The story of agak-agak
Volendammer Vishandel
Above Volendammer Vishandel
Volendammer Vishandel
1 / 1
Made famous by a Netflix episode featuring Joris Bijdendijk, this classic herring stand is a staple for locals and tourists alike. Located just off the the Albert Cuyp Market, it’s where you grab a quick broodje haring (herring sandwich) or kibbeling (crispy battered cod) with a tangy ravigote sauce. The herring is fresh off the knife and served with pickles and onions and is the oily and buttery fish that you dream about.
Volendammer Vishandel, Albert Cuypstraat 93, 1072 CP Amsterdam, Netherlands, +31 20 673 5955
Toko Ramee
Above Toko Ramee
Toko Ramee
1 / 1
It is one of the more charming culinary experiences in Amsterdam where if possible, you have to visit one of the many Indonesian tokos (family tuck shops) that we have in town. It’s a hybrid of a neighbourhood speciality super market where you can pick up your spices as well as an array of take-away dishes ranging from home-made pandan chiffon cakes to a rice platter with stewed meats. This place has been around feeding the community for over 30 years with their signature of glazed tempeh.
Toko Ramee, Ferdinand Bolstraat 74, 1072 LM Amsterdam, +31 20 662 2025
Bakkerij Mater
Above Bakkerij Mater
Bakkerij Mater
1 / 1
We can’t help but love a family run business because we all know it takes work to have a harmonious family let alone choose to work with them. That aside, this father son and daughter run bakery is one of the only fully sourdough micro bakeries in town, everything from their breads to their pastries are made from a sourdough starter. Make sure to try the croissant where you taste the yeastiness of the sourdough, the butter they use from a local bakery and while it may not have the construct of your typical croissant, it carries the rich, butter and umami profiles of your ideal croissant.
Bakkerij Mater, Ceintuurbaan 320 hs, 1072 GM Amsterdam, Netherlands
Topics
