26 of the Best French Restaurants in Amsterdam That Connoisseurs Want to Know

From classics to the new wave of French restaurants that have opened in Amsterdam, this list features the best, but especially my favorites! A list that, as I discovered, was still missing from Your Little Black Book. That needed to change quickly, so I've been visiting many of them again over the past few months. bistros I've been to Amsterdam. In this list of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam, I've compiled my personal favorites for you. A delicious list full of new French hotspots and well-known spots that have been a fixture in the city for years.

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26 Best French Restaurants in Amsterdam You Want to Know

Tanay 

You really have to find Tannay. Located on Zandhoek, near the picturesque Prinseneiland and Bickerseiland, Tannay is almost hidden. A historic building on the water, with a terrace where you can sit for hours on sunny days. But once you've been, you'll understand why people keep coming back. In my opinion, this is currently the best French restaurant in the city. And that's not just about the food, but about the overall experience. First, a good glass of wine, then a sumptuous dinner where every course is consistently superb, right up to dessert, and before you know it, it's dark and you don't want to leave. Tanay is named after chef Thomas Demuth's birthplace, and that French flair is evident in everything he does. This chef is truly incredibly talented. Classic techniques, deep flavors, but without being stuffy. This isn't stiff fine dining, but rather refined dining in a delightful setting. 
Zandhoek 14, Amsterdam – tannay.nl

Tannay © Your Little Black Book

Amsterdam Bouillon

New at the iconic Hotel Die Port van Cleve: Bouillon d'Amsterdam. An all-day restaurant where the classic French bouillon concept meets Amsterdam's culinary culture. French quality at a reasonable price is, in my opinion, exactly what the city needs. The interior is warm and perfect for a leisurely meal with friends and family, but also for a quick lunch while shopping in the city center. This new culinary hotspot is just around the corner from Dam Square. No more wondering where to find a good meal nearby. The menu offers all the classics that will satisfy your Parisian cravings, from steak tartare to excellent baguette with butter or duck confit. From lunch until late, you can order the entire menu à la carte. Small dishes start from just a few euros. Expect an Amsterdam twist on the classics, like a Kesbeke pickle, served exactly where you like it, or steak frites with the famous numbered steak that has been served at Die Port van Cleve since 1874. And the prices? They are really good indeed! A fun fact: this new restaurant comes from the team behind BUILD.
New Side Voorburgwal 176-180, Amsterdam – bouillondamsterdam.nl

© Bouillon d'Amsterdam

Le French Café

Le French Café is an accessible French restaurant that always makes me happy when I walk in. The concept was born from a love of French cuisine, but with an urban twist that perfectly suits Amsterdam. Not a stuffy brasserie, but a vibrant spot with Amsterdam bravado, a touch of cheekiness, and a distinctive style. The first location opened in 2022. Javastraat, where you can dine from brunch to dinner and linger for that last cocktail at the bar. In 2023, the second location followed at Admiral de Ruijterweg, with its own unique atmosphere and menu, but the same focus on a delicious menu and friendly service. Whether you come for oysters, a glass of wine, or a long evening dining with friends with a table full of French dishes, I've never left Le French Café without having a pleasant evening. Definitely start with the egg mayo! They're so delicious. Tip: they also have a branch in Utrecht.
Javastraat 42, Amsterdam East & Admiraal de Ruyterweg 1, Amsterdam West – lefrenchcafe.nl

Le French Café Javastraat © Your Little Black Book

Cantine de Caron

At the Westergasterrein, Cantine de Caron is exactly the right restaurant that was missing. Perfect for a French lunch with wine. Of the Caron family's restaurants, this is the one I go to for two reasons: a delicious meal on the terrace or dining with a large group.
Pazzanistraat 8, Amsterdam – cantinedecaron.nl

Cantine De Caron

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

Hostel

Ever since Auberge opened (then called Auberge Jean & Marie), I've tried to eat here at least once a year. Last time, I had lunch alone on the terrace, and it was incredibly delicious. You can go here for lunch seven days a week, and that alone makes it a place to remember. What I love is that they offer a "formule menu" for both lunch and dinner, just like you're used to in France. You can choose your own dishes! Or would you prefer something from the extensive à la carte menu? I always go for the escargots and the steak frites.
Albert Cuypstraat 58-60, Amsterdam – aubergeamsterdam.nl

© Auberge

TRUMP

Troef in Amsterdam Oost is easily one of the best new French restaurants in Amsterdam. The menu is packed with dishes that burst with flavor. I've even ordered the same dish several times with a group of friends. The team makes you feel at home. Trump It feels right at home. When designing the restaurant, they wanted to create a homey atmosphere, and they succeeded. The beautiful open kitchen and the extensive wine collection are real eye-catchers that add an elegant touch to this cozy gastro bar and restaurant. In the summer, they have a lovely terrace that's perfect for an aperitif. Booking ahead is a must! Tip: They now also have a second restaurant; read all about it here. toet.
Schollenbrugstraat 8, Amsterdam – troefamsterdam.nl

© TROEF

Cafe Caron

For me, Café Caron is a restaurant that's always a good idea to visit. I enjoy the terrace in good weather, but a spot at the bar remains my absolute favorite. It's always a pleasant atmosphere, especially when Alain himself is in the restaurant. A delightful French restaurant where you can always enjoy classic preparations using the finest ingredients. Café Caron has quickly become a staple in Amsterdam that you'll return to again and again.
Frans Halsstraat 28, Amsterdam – cafecaron.nl

© Café Caron, @cafecaron

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

Petit Caron

Another favorite from the Caron family. Petit Caron It was already my favorite French bar spot on Gerard Douplein, where you could easily spend the entire evening unnoticed. They'll soon be opening on Frans Halsstraat in the spot where Le Restaurant used to be. I've heard the restaurant at the new location will be even better and more like they originally envisioned. I'd say: keep an eye on the website for reservations!
Frans Halsstraat 28, Amsterdam – petitcaron.nl

Petit Caron © Your Little Black Book

Gertrude

The street where French restaurant Gertrude is located in Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful in the city, in my opinion. If you go to Gertrude for an evening, you're looking for atmosphere, a cozy atmosphere, and delicious food. Tables that can hardly be closer together, dishes perfect for sharing, fine wines that flow freely, and perhaps an extra bottle while lingering over the table. 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 Friday!
Bosboom Toussaintstraat 28-H, Amsterdam – gertrudeamsterdam.nl

© Gertrude

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 for lunch every day from noon and has a menu with delicious dishes to choose from all day long. There's even a special dish for kids. I've been here for lunch a few times now and am a fan of the steak tartare, but I'll definitely go back for dinner. Because whether with friends or a date, Café Garçon's interior is exactly what you want when you're going 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

Brasserie Margaux, Café Garçon's sister restaurant, recently opened on Beethovenstraat. This timeless brasserie is a must-see for French cuisine lovers. The traditional French dishes have an authentic flavor and could easily have come straight from Paris. Every meal is served on an authentic Limoges porcelain plate. The cutlery is real silver and hand-selected. When you consider that the 22.000 marble floor tiles are also hand-laid, you immediately understand the care and attention this establishment has taken! Read more about Brasserie Margaux here >>
Beethovenstraat 27-A, Amsterdam – brasseriemargaux.nl

© Brasserie Margaux

Libertine Café Des Prés

After the Libertine Café on Noordermarkt, the owners have opened a second venue: Libertine Café Des Prés. This small bistro on Gerard Douplein embodies French conviviality. An elegant interior, a welcoming terrace, and plenty of nostalgic details give the place a relaxed atmosphere. You can also visit any time of day. A delicious French lunch, a refreshing afternoon aperitif, or a savory snack—it's all possible!
Gerard Douplein 10, Amsterdam – libertine.amsterdam

© Libertine Café Des Prés

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

Arles

In good weather, the courtyard garden at Arles is perhaps the best-kept secret of Amsterdam's De Pijp district. But even in the colder months, this restaurant is a wonderful place to dine in a French atmosphere. Arles has a BIB Gourmand, meaning you can enjoy excellent food at a reasonable price. Currently, a three-course menu costs €45. You can choose your own dish, always with meat, fish, or vegetarian options. Arles has been a favorite since its opening and definitely deserves a spot on this list of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam.
Govert Flinckstraat 251, Amsterdam – arles-amsterdam.nl

© Arles

The speech

La Parole is one of the newest hotspots in West. This cozy French restaurant has a lovely, large terrace on the corner of Kwakersstraat, near De Foodhallen. Incredibly friendly service and delicious, no-nonsense French dishes. The menu is packed with dishes you're sure to crave when you think of French cuisine. La Parole is perfect for last-minute plans, as they don't take reservations. Another great thing: they're open seven days a week from noon. This is one of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam to combine with, for example, a movie at De Filmhallen.
Kwakersstraat 24, Amsterdam – laparole.nl

© LA PAROLE

Bistrot Les Zazous

KNSM Island has a new hotspot: Bistrot Les Zazous. A typical French bistro with minimal fuss, so to speak. The interior is French, with dark wood and classic wine glasses (a key part of this restaurant's offerings). The menu features numerous French delicacies: from duck terrine to grilled bavette, steak tartare, and escargots. For dessert, of course, a French cheese board awaits you – complete with a matching wine.
Piraeusplein 59, Amsterdam – leszazous.nl

© Bistrot Les Zazous

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

The jeweler

This Michelin-starred restaurant on Utrechtsestraat has been a favorite I return to time and time again since its opening. Don't necessarily expect the bistro fare you'll find on the menus of the cafes on this list. The cuisine here is top-notch, and every dish is a feast for the eyes. The menu changes regularly, but there's almost always a special steak tartare, bone marrow, and a delicious pâté en coûte on offer. There are also delicious seasonal fish dishes. In short: another reason to return to this lovely restaurant. My favorite spot is the bar for dining!
Utrechtsestraat 51, Amsterdam – restaurant-dejuwelier.nl

© The Jeweler

Bistro de la Mer

Bistro de la Mer is one of our go-to spots when we can spontaneously dine out. We call to check if there's a spot at the bar and hop on our bikes. This is hands-down one of my favorite fish restaurants in Amsterdam. The menu changes regularly, and the dishes look so much more beautiful than the menu suggests. This restaurant is just a few doors down from De Juwelier, and both restaurants, run by Richard van Oostenbrugge and Thomas Groot, have been awarded a Michelin star.
Utrechtsestraat 57, Amsterdam

© Bistro de la Mer

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

Bouchon du Centre

Within walking distance of Carré and the musical theater, you'll find this little slice of France, inspired by the 19th-century "bouchon Lyonnais." These were small, middle-class kitchens where women, who had previously cooked for the bourgeoisie, began 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, high-quality French fare, often involving a great deal of preparation. Reservations 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 it's been a staple for years and is packed almost every night. A cozy bistro with classic French dishes on the menu. It's dark and intimate inside, and the pleasant terrace, when the weather is nice, gives you a holiday feeling. In short: the kind of place you'll return to again and again!
First 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 neighborhood. In good weather, the terrace at Brut de Mer is incredibly pleasant. If you ask me, it's one of the best spots for people-watching while enjoying an oyster and a good glass of wine. For oysters, this might just be one of the best places in Amsterdam, as you'll rarely find such a wide variety of oysters to sample. So be sure to ask the team for advice. This cozy bistro is a great place to relax, not only in the summer but also in colder weather. Perfect for a date, so keep it in mind!
Gerard Douplein 8, Amsterdam – brutdemer.nl

© BRUT DE MER

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

Café De Klepel

One of the best wine cafés in Amsterdam city center is and remains Café de Klepel. On weekends, you can pop in for a drink and a light bite from mid-afternoon. In the evening, it's the perfect spot for a three- or four-course chef's dinner. The dishes are constantly changing based on the best of the season, so every time is a delicious surprise. The wine list is excellent, and you'll find the finest wines from France here. Reservations are essential, and they're now also available for lunch on weekends.
Prinsenstraat 22, Amsterdam – cafedeklepel.nl

© Café De Klepel

Bistro Baret

Tucked away in a small street around the corner from Carré, you'll find the small, cozy Bistro Baret. It's been completely transformed into a true French bistro. The menu isn't overly extensive, featuring only French classics. This makes it one of the best French restaurants in Amsterdam for a pre-theatre dinner, just like its younger sibling, Chez Fabrice.
Korte Amstelstraat 18, Amsterdam – bistrobaret.nl

© Bistro Baret

More best French restaurants in Amsterdam

At Fabrice's

Remember the Carrékelder? This beautiful building has since been transformed into an elegant French city bistro. With its stunning location on the Amstel River and stylish interior, Chez Fabrice is the ideal spot for a cozy drink or a delicious meal. The refreshing Mediterranean dishes are prepared with fresh vegetables and instantly evoke a summer feeling. This contemporary hotspot is perfect for a leisurely dinner or a quick bite before a show at the Carré!
Amstel 133, Amsterdam – chezfabrice.nl 

© Chez Fabrice

Wils Bakery Café

Joris Bijdendijk (known for RIJKS* and Wils*) has opened a new location at Amsterdam's Stadionplein. Wils Bakery Café is a combination bakery and bistro, the Burgundian sister of Michelin-starred restaurant Wils, located on the building's third floor. Wils Bakery Café offers the best of both worlds, a place where the craftsmanship of a bakery meets the coziness of a French bistro. Whether you're enjoying a more exclusive dinner or lunch at Wils*, Wils Bakery Café offers classic lunch and bread dishes without a reservation. Think: the Reuben sandwich, an asparagus quiche, and pâté en croute. Bijdendijk and his team also serve their best versions of schnitzel, slavink, and soft serve ice cream. Bread, pastries, and lunch can also be purchased to go at the bakery itself. In the summer, Wils Bakery Café also has a lovely terrace on Stadionplein. Sounds good, right?
Stadionplein 24, Amsterdam South – wilsbakerycafe.nl

© Wils Bakery Café

MARRIED

Marie is the brasserie of the beautiful The L'Europe HotelThe restaurant offers French classics with a modern twist. Think beetroot with duck liver and côte de boeuf with béarnaise. The restaurant is cozy, but our favorite time of year to visit Marie is in the summer. The waterfront terrace is simply a fantastic spot for a glass of champagne with oysters, or a leisurely lunch or dinner.
New Doelenstraat 2-14, Amsterdam – marieamsterdam.com

© Marie