From classics to the new wave of French restaurants that have opened their doors in Amsterdam. In this list I’ve put together the best, but especially my favorites! A list that, I discovered, was still missing on Your Little Black Book. That had to change quickly, so over the past few months I’ve revisited many bistros in Amsterdam. In this list of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam, I’ve gathered my personal favorites for you. A list full of new French hotspots and the well-known places that have been a staple in the city for years.
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25 X best french restaurants in amsterdam you want to know
Bar Gui
This new gastrobar by chef Guillaume de Beer is located in a quiet stretch of the Prinsengracht and is exactly what I’m loving right now when we go out to eat. A delightful terrace by the canal where you can enjoy an apéritif with an oyster. And maybe even start with the amuse-bouche of your dinner, if the weather is as lovely as when we were there. Then, step inside the intimate basement restaurant for an extensive dining experience. They offer a fixed 5-course menu that changes regularly. Recently, you can also opt for a 3-course menu on Wednesdays and Thursdays, which can also be served on the terrace. Does the chef’s name sound familiar? There’s a good chance you know him from his other establishment, Paindemie, or as the former chef and partner of Maris Piper and Restaurant Breda. With Bar Gui, he pursues his own dreams and cooks the most delicious, Brittany-inspired dishes that remind him of his childhood and family in France. This is hands down one of the best restaurants where I’ve eaten lately. Great atmosphere, tasty music, a top chef, and just the right ambiance you’re looking for during date night. Expect rich dishes, from buttery langoustine to perfectly prepared sweetbread. I’ll be back soon!
Prinsengracht 955, Amsterdam – bar-gui.com
© Bar Gui
Auberge
Ever since the opening of Auberge Jean & Marie, I’ve tried to dine here at least once a year. The last time, I went for lunch alone on the terrace, and it was so delicious once again. Unfortunately, the restaurant closed its doors at the end of last year, but… there is light at the end of the tunnel for those who miss Auberge. None other than Richard van Oostenbrugge (of 212 and De Juwelier fame) shared on Instagram that the restaurant will continue under their wing. With Jan, without Marie. So from now on, you’ll be dining at Auberge, and the restaurant will reopen in March 2024. Thankfully, because the restaurant was consistently high quality over the years and had a menu full of ‘Auberge classics‘ that hopefully will return in a new guise. I always ordered the escargots here! The service and personal advice from Jan are excellent, so be sure to ask for recommendations and then indulge in the delicious dishes. Fingers crossed they’ll also resume lunch service.
Albert Cuypstraat 58-60, Amsterdam – aubergeamsterdam.nl
© Auberge
TROEF
Troef in Amsterdam East is undoubtedly one of the best new French restaurants in Amsterdam. The menu is packed with dishes bursting with flavour. It’s happened to me several times that with a group of friends, we’ve happily ordered the same dish again. The team at Troef also makes you feel right at home. When setting up the place, they aimed to create a homely atmosphere, and they succeeded. The stunning open kitchen and the vast wine collection are real eye-catchers, adding an elegant touch to this cosy gastro-bar and restaurant. In summer, they have a lovely terrace, perfect for an apéritif. Booking in advance is a must!
Schollenbrugstraat 8, Amsterdam – troefamsterdam.nl
© TROEF
Café Caron
Café Caron, in my opinion, is always a great idea to go to. When the weather is nice, sitting on the terrace is lovely, but my absolute favourite spot is at the bar. It’s always cosy, especially when Alain himself is also present in the establishment. It’s a delightful French restaurant where you can always enjoy classic preparations of the finest ingredients. Café Caron has quickly become a staple restaurant in Amsterdam that you keep going back to time and time again.
Frans Halsstraat 28, Amsterdam – cafecaron.nl
© Café Caron, @cafecaron
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Cantine de Caron
At the Westergas area, Cantine de Caron is exactly the right restaurant that was missing there. Perfect for a French lunch with wine. From the series of restaurants by the Caron family, this is the restaurant I go to for two reasons: enjoying delicious food on the terrace or dining with a large group.
Pazzanistraat 8, Amsterdam – cantinedecaron.nl
Cantine De Caron
Petit Caron
Another favourite from the Caron family. Petit Caron was already my favourite French drinking spot at Gerard Douplein, where you’d end up hanging out all evening without realizing it. Soon, they will open in Frans Halsstraat at the spot where Le Restaurant used to be. I’ve been told that the restaurant at the new location will be even better and more like they originally envisioned. I would say: keep an eye on the website for when you can make a reservation!
Frans Halsstraat 28, Amsterdam – petitcaron.nl
© Petit Caron
Gertrude
The street where the French restaurant Gertrude is located in Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful in the city, in my opinion. When you spend an evening at Gertrude, you go for the atmosphere, cosiness, and delicious food. Tables that are almost as close together as can be, dishes to share, beautiful wines flowing generously, and maybe an extra bottle during the after-dinner conversation. Gertrude is great with friends, but also one of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam for date night. They’re also open for lunch on weekends starting from Friday!
Bosboom Toussaintstraat 28-H, Amsterdam – gertrudeamsterdam.nl
© Gertrude
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Café Garçon
The new French restaurant in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid. With an interior that truly makes you feel like you’re in a Parisian bistro and a terrace perfect for people-watching. Café Garçon is open daily from 12:00 for lunch and offers a menu where you can choose delicious dishes all day long. There’s even a dish specially for the kids. I’ve been here for lunch a few times now, and I’m a fan of the steak tartare, but I’ll definitely go back for dinner. Whether with friends or a date, Café Garçon is exactly what you want in terms of interior when you go to a French restaurant! In my opinion, one of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam for lunch.
Johannes Verhulststraat 105, Amsterdam – cafegarcon.nl
© Café Garçon
Brasserie Margaux
In the Beethovenstraat, you’ll find Brasserie Margaux, the sister of Café Garçon, which recently opened its doors. This timeless brasserie is a must-visit for lovers of French cuisine. The traditional French dishes boast an authentic taste that could easily be straight from Paris. Moreover, each meal is served on authentic Limoges porcelain plates. The cutlery is genuine silver and hand-selected. Knowing that even the 22,000 marble floor tiles were laid by hand, you immediately understand the meticulous care that went into building the establishment! Read more about Brasserie Margaux here >>
Beethovenstraat 27-A, Amsterdam – brasseriemargaux.nl
© Brasserie Margaux
Libertine Café Des Prés
After the success of Libertine Café on Noordermarkt, the owners have opened a second restaurant: Libertine Café Des Prés. This charming bistro located at Gerard Douplein embodies French conviviality. With its elegant interior, inviting terrace, and numerous nostalgic details, the venue exudes a relaxed ambiance. Moreover, you can visit at any time of the day. Whether it’s for a delightful French lunch, a leisurely afternoon apéritif, or a savoury snack, they’ve got you covered!
Gerard Douplein 10, Amsterdam – libertine.amsterdam
© Libertine Café Des Prés
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Arles
On sunny days, the courtyard of Arles may just be the best-kept secret in Amsterdam’s De Pijp neighbourhood. But even in the colder months, this restaurant offers a great French dining experience. Arles boasts a BIB Gourmand, indicating excellent food at reasonable prices. Currently, a 3-course menu costs €45, allowing you to choose dishes featuring meat, fish, or vegetarian options. Since its opening, Arles has been a favourite and certainly deserves a spot on this list of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam.
Govert Flinckstraat 251, Amsterdam – arles-amsterdam.nl
© Arles
La Parole
La Parole is one of the newest hotspots in the West. This cosy French restaurant features a large terrace on the corner near Kwakersstraat, close to De Foodhallen. With incredibly friendly service and delicious, no-nonsense French dishes, their menu is packed with items that evoke cravings for French cuisine. La Parole is perfect for spontaneous plans as they do not take reservations. Additionally, they are open seven days a week from 12:00 onwards. This is one of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam, ideal for combining with a film at De Hallen.
Kwakersstraat 24, Amsterdam – laparole.nl
© LA PAROLE
Bistrot Les Zazous
The KNSM Island welcomes a new hotspot: Bistrot Les Zazous. This typical French bistro is modest, with a French-inspired interior featuring dark wood and classic wine glasses (an essential part of their offerings). The menu boasts a variety of French delicacies, from duck terrine to grilled bavette, steak tartare, and escargots. And of course, a French cheese platter awaits you for dessert – complete with matching wine.
Piraeusplein 59, Amsterdam – leszazous.nl
© Bistrot Les Zazous
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De Juwelier
This Michelin-starred restaurant on Utrechtsestraat has been a favourite of mine since its opening, and I keep coming back for more. Don’t expect typical bistro dishes found in the casual eatery recommendations in this list. Here, the cuisine is of the highest standard, and each dish is a work of art. While the menu changes regularly, you can almost always find specialities like steak tartare, bone marrow, and a beautiful paté en croûte. Additionally, they offer delightful seasonal fish dishes. In short, it’s always a good reason to return to this beautiful restaurant. My favourite spot is the bar for dining!
Utrechtsestraat 51, Amsterdam – restaurant-dejuwelier.nl
© De Juwelier
Bistro de la Mer
Bistro de la Mer is one of our go-to spots when we’re looking for a spontaneous dining experience. A quick call to see if there’s a spot at the bar, and we’re off on our bikes. This is hands down one of my favourite seafood restaurants in Amsterdam. The menu changes regularly, and the dishes look even more beautiful than you’d expect from the menu. This restaurant is located a few doors down from De Juwelier, and both restaurants under the leadership of Richard van Oostenbrugge and Thomas Groot have been awarded a Michelin star.
Utrechtsestraat 57, Amsterdam
© Bistro de la Mer
Le French Café
In the always lively and charming Javastraat, you can visit Le French Café any time of day. It’s a modern French bistro offering the best of France, making you feel like you’re in Paris. The interior is fantastic! Another aspect I love about this new restaurant in Amsterdam is the various charming corners throughout the venue. Whether it’s a table for dining, small bistro tables for a quiet read, a cosy bar for endless drinks later in the day, or a delightful terrace, Le French Café has it all. The menu features delicious brunch dishes like Eggs Benedict, steak tartare, and more. If you decide to stay for drinks after brunch, Le French Café is the place to be. Their selection of bar snacks is so tasty that you might almost skip the main course for dinner. However, it would be a shame if you love fruits de mer! This new restaurant in Amsterdam is not only a fantastic addition for anyone who loves French cuisine but also offers delicious shellfish and seafood dishes. So, make plans for your next dinner date!
Javastraat 42, Amsterdam, Oost – lefrenchcafe.nl
© Your Little Black Book
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Within walking distance of Carré and the music theatre, you’ll find this little piece of France, inspired by the nineteenth-century ‘bouchon Lyonnais’. These were small bistros where women who used to cook for the bourgeoisie started serving simple meals as a new source of income. Bouchon du Centre is a one woman show with Hanneke Schouten as the leading lady. She serves traditional, seemingly simple French fare of high quality, often requiring a lot of preparation. Reservation only!
Falckstraat 3, Amsterdam – bouchonducentre.nl
© Bouchon du Centre
Pastis
Pastis is one of those restaurants that might not always be top-of-mind, but has been a staple for years, almost always full every evening. A cosy bistro with classic French dishes on the menu. Dark and intimate indoors, with a holiday vibe on the charming terrace in nice weather. In short, it’s the kind of place you keep coming back to!
Eerste Constantijn Huygensstraat 15, Amsterdam – pastisamsterdam.nl
© Pastis
Brut de Mer
For a taste of the Côte d’Azur in Amsterdam, head to Brut de Mer. When it comes to restaurants, De Pijp remains a very charming neighbourhood. On sunny days, the terrace at Brut de Mer is incredibly pleasant. In my opinion, this is one of the best spots for people-watching while enjoying an oyster and a good glass of wine. When it comes to oysters, this might just be one of the best addresses in Amsterdam, as rarely do you see so many different varieties to taste. So, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the team. Not only in summer, but also in colder weather, this cosy bistro is a great place to be. Perfect for a date, so remember it!
Gerard Douplein 8, Amsterdam – brutdemer.nl
© BRUT DE MER
the best french restaurants in amsterdam
De Gouden Reael (by Caron)
This charming restaurant is located on Prinseneiland and is run by the Caron family, the same family behind Café Caron and Petit Caron in Amsterdam’s De Pijp. They bring the same high quality and ambiance to their newly acquired restaurant De Gouden Reael. Enjoy beautiful menus featuring French dishes in a stunning historical building with a lovely terrace in the summer. Located in a neighbourhood that, in my opinion, begs for a stroll before or after your meal!
Zandhoek 14, Amsterdam – goudenreael.nl
© De Gouden Reael (by Caron)
Café De Klepel
One of the best wine bars in Amsterdam Centrum remains Café de Klepel. On weekends, you can pop in here for a drink with a small bite from mid-afternoon onwards. In the evening, it’s the place to be for a 3- or 4-course chef’s dinner. The dishes change regularly based on the best of the season, so it’s always a delightful surprise. The wine list is excellent, featuring the finest wines from France. Reservations are a must, and now they also accept bookings for lunch on weekends.
Prinsenstraat 22, Amsterdam – cafedeklepel.nl
© Café De Klepel
Bistro Baret
Tucked away in a small alley just around the corner from Carré, you’ll find the small, cosy Bistro Baret. Completely transformed into a true French bistro. The menu isn’t extensive, filled only with French classics. This makes it one of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam for a pre-theatre dinner, much like its youngest sibling Chez Fabrice.
Korte Amstelstraat 18, Amsterdam – bistrobaret.nl
© Baret
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Chez Fabrice
Do you remember the Carré cellar? This beautiful building has now been transformed into an elegant French urban bistro. With its stunning location on the Amstel and stylish interior, Chez Fabrice is the ideal spot for a cosy drink or a delicious meal. The fresh Mediterranean dishes are prepared with fresh vegetables and instantly give you a summery feeling. In this contemporary hotspot, you can enjoy an extensive dinner or a quick bite before a show at Carré!
Amstel 133, Amsterdam – chezfabrice.nl
© Chez Fabrice
Wils Bakery Café
Joris Bijdendijk (known from RIJKS* and Wils*) has opened a new restaurant at Amsterdam’s Stadionplein. Wils Bakery Café is a combination of a bakery and a bistro, the more indulgent sister of the Michelin-starred restaurant Wils located on the 3rd floor of the building. Wils Bakery Café offers the best of both worlds. A place where the craft of a bakery and the conviviality of a French bistro come together. If you’re dining or having lunch at Wils*, you’ll experience a more exclusive atmosphere, but at Wils Bakery Café, you can walk in without a reservation for classic lunch and bread dishes. Think: the Reuben Sandwich, asparagus quiche, and paté en croûte. In addition, Bijdendijk and his team serve their best versions of schnitzel, slavink, and soft serve ice cream. You can also buy bread, pastries, and lunch to go in the bakery itself. In the summer, Wils Bakery Café also has a lovely terrace on Stadionplein. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Stadionplein 24, Amsterdam-Zuid – wilsbakerycafe.nl
© Wils Bakery Café
MARIE
Marie is the brasserie of the beautiful De L’Europe Hotel. The restaurant offers French classics, but with a modern twist. Think beetroot with foie gras and côte de boeuf with béarnaise. It’s cosy to dine in the restaurant, but our favourite time of year to visit Marie is undoubtedly in the summer. The terrace by the water is simply a fantastic spot for a glass of champagne with oysters or an extensive lunch or dinner.
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14, Amsterdam – marieamsterdam.com
© Marie
Amsterdam Bucketlist & Things to Do
(DIGITAL) ART EXPERIENCES IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Fabrique des Lumières
⋙ NXT Museum
⋙ STRAAT street art museum
⋙ MOCO Museum for street and modern art
⋙ Amaze, an audiovisual labyrint
FOOD EXPERIENCES IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Food Tasting Tour of Jordaan area
⋙ Albert Cuyp Market Food Tour
⋙ Sightseeing Boat Cruise with unlimited drinks
⋙ Pancake Cruise
⋙ Micro Brewery Beer Tasting Tour
BEST BIKE TOURS IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Fatbike e-bike tour (also to Amsterdam North)
⋙ Rent a bike by yourself and explore like a local
⋙ Outside of Amsterdam: windmills & Zaanse Schans
⋙ 3 hour biketour: backstreets & hidden gems
FIRST TIME VISIT TO AMSTERDAM – MUST SEE & DO’S:
⋙ Private Canal Boat Tour
⋙ Rijksmuseum with the Dutch masters
⋙ Van Gogh Museum, a staple in Amsterdam
⋙ Stedelijk Museum for modern art lovers
⋙ Canal Cruise in the evening
INSTAGRAM MUSEUMS IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Discover the Instagrammable experience WONDR
⋙ Youseum
⋙ The Upside Down
DAY TRIPS FROM AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Get out of town and into the Dutch country side of Giethoorn
⋙ Drive-it-Yourself Tulip Fields GPS Audio Tour
⋙ Catch a direct train from Amsterdam to Antwerp, Brussels, London or Paris, starting at € 20,-! Check tickets & prices >>
AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS:
⋙ Visit Artis Royal Zoo
⋙ Go an a bike tour with the kids
⋙ NEMO Science Museum
SPIRNG / SUMMER IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Paddle board tour on the canals
⋙ Go for a kayak-tour in Amsterdam
FALL / WINTER IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour
⋙ Amsterdam Light Festival bike tour
| TIP: Buy an I amsterdam City Card. Save money on entrance fees to museums and attractions, public transport and profit from discounts on everything from restaurants to concerts. You can also skip some lines to make the most of your time in Amsterdam! You can buy a card for 24 hours up to 120 hours. Check the prices here >>
Our favourite hotels in Amsterdam:
TOP LUXURY // €€€
☾ Pillows Maurits at the Park: this newly opened hotel is all about luxury.
☾ Pulitzer Amsterdam: on the canals at the border of the Nine Streets and the Jordaan.
☾ L’Europe: recently renovated, this hotel has the best spa with a view in Amsterdam.
☾ Conservatorium Hotel: located in one of the most beautiful buildings in town.
☾ Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: if you have something to celebrate this is the one.
☾ W Amsterdam: with lively restaurants and a posh rooftop bar with swimming pool.
VERY VERY NICE // €€
☾ The Hoxton: favourite lifestyle hotel right on the canals with great all day bar.
☾ Hotel Jakarta: the most sustainable hotel ánd great value for money with a spa.
☾ Hotel V: with two locations and a great restaurant, in the city center and East.
☾ Sir Adam: with the coolest view over Amsterdam from the North side.
☾ Sweets: a unique stay in former bridge houses.
☾ Hotel Dwars: small scale and around the corner of the trendy Utrechtsestraat.
☾ Hotel Mercier: pretty new hotel in the cosy and historic Jordaan district.
☾ INK Hotel: lifestyle hotel in the heart of the city by MGallery.
☾ Morgan & Mees: boutique hotel with restaurant in Amsterdam West.
☾ Conscious Hotel Westerpark: in a beautiful building at the industrial Westergas area.
☾ Ruby Emma: eco design hotel with a great skybar near Amstel station.
AFFORDABLE (FOR AMSTERDAM PRICES) // €
☾ Generator Hostel: the best poshtel of the city located in a park.
☾ The Social Hub budget proof in trendy East district close tho the subway.
☾ Het Volkshotel: affordable and with a cool rooftop bar.
☾ CitizenM: all you need is that XL bed (location near Amstel is great).
☾ Motel One: budget design hotel with several locations in Amsterdam.
Let’s get social
I really hope you enjoy your time in Amsterdam! On my Instagram account @yourlbb and @yourlbb.amsterdam you can find more recommendations and new hotspots in town.
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