Casual restaurants Amsterdam
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21 December 2024
21 Januari 2026

39 Casual Restaurants That Are Perfect for a Weeknight Dinner Date

Looking for a bite to eat with a friend or lover on a weekday? These casual restaurants in Amsterdam are great spots for a weekday dinner date. With a relaxed atmosphere, good food, and reasonable prices. Read on for our list of 39 casual restaurants in Amsterdam for a weekday dinner date. Which restaurant is your favorite?

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𝗔 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗳𝗲́ 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆? @eetcafe_de_reiger is the spot to remember. Cozy, casual, and a seasonal menu. This one was on my list to share for a year and finally it's (almost) asparagus season again! 🤤 Another plus? Prices are very reasonable here! 📍 Eetcafé de Reiger Jordaan, Amsterdam City Center Save this spot for when you're craving warm Dutch traditional dishes in the heart of Amsterdam. And did you hear the same team took over Eetcafé van Beeren? I can't wait to go there too! ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
A grandma's cookbook. Three Michelin stars. And a beautiful 70s villa in a quiet neighborhood in Bangkok, where you are welcomed as if you were at the chefs' home. The Sühring brothers don't cook based on trends; they cook based on memories. Of their grandmother's farm, of the flavors of their youth in Germany, and of techniques passed down through generations. @relaischateaux invited me to experience Sühring during a solo lunch, and this is truly my ultimate definition of culinary self-care. This was a surprising afternoon in Bangkok, where I ate the best German food I have ever tasted. And that in a city where I normally avoid European restaurants. Well, for @restaurant_suhring, you really want to make that exception. Signature dishes that I still think back to regularly? 🍴 Labskaus with caviar 🍴 Enleta waffle with Pfalz vinegar 🍴 Game pâté 🍴 Dry-aged Duck TIP: When you go to Sühring, reserve seats at the kitchen bar so you have a view of the chefs at work! Follow @yourlbb for more tips you can trust. ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck #prinvited #bangkok #michelin #relaischateaux In this reels, I take you along for fine dining in Bangkok at the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Sühring.
This is one of the best free outings in the spring! Did you know that you can gather (or pick, for the connoisseurs 😉) oysters yourself at various locations in the Netherlands? I’m in Zeeland for a bit this weekend, and if we can make it, we’ll go again. 📍In this video, I show you where you can fill your bucket. Comment *oester* for the comprehensive guide with all the details about all 8 locations + handy tips and rules. Important to know: – Max. 10 kilos per person (≈ 1 bucket) – For personal use only – Do not scoop or scrape the seabed – Go at low tide Handy things to bring: Bucket, screwdriver, boots, work gloves, tea towel, clean clothes, and garbage bags (for the oysters *and* dirty clothes). And of course: bring an oyster knife, lemon, and champagne too 🍋🥂 Because you’ll want to taste something right away, won’t you! The oyster season runs from September to about April / early May, so now that the water isn't so cold, this is the perfect outing. In the full guide, I share exactly where you can easily find them, without much effort. Comment oyster and I'll send it to you right away! Who do you want to go oyster gathering with soon? ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 These are those few magical weeks each year when the city suddenly feels different. Everything is in bloom and all you want to do is be outside. Coffee to-go in hand, and just head out as soon as the sun shows up. 📍 Bloesempark – Amsterdamse Bos (the classic, yes it gets busy, but totally worth it) 📍 Rijksmuseum 📍 Fruit Garden of West 📍 Westerpark 📍 Jozef Israëlskade 📍 WG site 📍 Nelson Mandelapark 📍 Bos en Lommerplantsoen 📍Amstelpark By mid-April most of the sakura will already be gone, so if you want to catch it: this is your moment. I'll definitely be doing a few more rounds before it's over. ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck _______________________________________________ 🌸 Discover the best places to spot cherry blossom in Amsterdam and enjoy the sakura in full bloom. 🌸
3 x home that has the ultimate green space. Not too big, everything within walking distance, but plenty of nice hotspots!! These services (and what clothing) are in the Netherlands 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘃𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗽 𝗱𝗲𝘇𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲! I have massive spring fever, so it's time for a mini-escape: everything is within walking distance, there are lovely coffee shops, boutiques for shopping, and enough gems to discover in 48 hours ✨ Which city is at the top of your list for a spring getaway? Let me know in the comments & save for your next girls' trip. 🖤 ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
This is your sign to plan your next weekend brunch with friends in Amsterdam 👀 @ottolenghi_amsterdam is officially open and the new go-to hotspot for flavors of the Levant. Open from breakfast to dinner and I can't wait to go back for a lazy weekend brunch with a table full of dishes and good conversations. Save this one to your Amsterdam Little Black Book 📓! 🖊️ @anne_de_buck ____________________________ Ottolenghi Amsterdam is a new all-day restaurant near Museum Square by chef and entrepreneur @ottolenghi in @mo_hotels @conservatoriumhotel.

39 Casual Restaurants for a Weekday Dinner Date

Barracuda

This is a casual restaurant, no doubt about it. They have a unique approach: each table receives a menu where you can select which dishes you'd like to have. From ricotta toast and scallops in white wine to fennel with sea aster. Hand in your piece of paper, and before you know it, it'll be on the table. Open Wednesday through Saturday for dinner, and Friday and Saturday for lunch as well. The ideal spot for fish lovers looking for a relaxing getaway.
Aambeeldstraat 10, Amsterdam – barracuda.amsterdam

Le Trout

Oh, Bosboom Toussaintstraat, you're so beautiful! Here you'll find Le Forel – a French bistro in Amsterdam with fresh fish daily and a menu that adapts to the current demand. They still have a few classics, such as specialties like lobster mac & cheese, sole meunière, and classic bisque.
Bosboom Toussaintstraat 70, Amsterdam – leforel.nl

Bar Bonnie

So many people love Bar Bonnie that they've expanded into the building next door. It's a cozy place seven days a week, and everyone feels welcome—a true neighborhood bistro. Come in casual attire or dress up (it's Oud-Zuid, after all); anything goes here.
Amstelveenseweg 226h, Amsterdam – bonnie.goudvisch.nl

Five Brothers Fat

This champagneria is inspired by shops in Barcelona, where the bubbles flow freely every day at a reasonable price. Order some tapas and your evening is complete.
Hobbemakade 64, Amsterdam – fivebrothersfat.nl

Spaghetteria

Spaghetteria is always a good choice, both for your stomach and your wallet! Be sure to save room for their delicious tiramisu.
Various locations, Amsterdam – spaghettiria.nl

Spaghetteria Pasta Bar

Spaghetteria

more casual restaurants for weekday dining

Odette's buffet

Marble, mirrors, a charming bar, and a semi-open kitchen. Buffet van Odette looks like it came straight out of a Parisian bistro, complete with a charming canal-side terrace. They became known for their exceptionally fine lunch buffet, but it's also a great place to relax in the evening. Bistro classics with a fresh twist and a fine wine list.
Prinsengracht 598, Amsterdam – buffet-amsterdam.nl

Gitane

From early morning till late at night: at Café Restaurant Gitane in Amsterdam West, on the Jan Pieter Heijestraat, you can visit all day long. For small and large appetites, natural wine, or that much-needed caffeine fix, you've come to the right place – and of course, for a good Friday afternoon drink.
Jan Pieter Heijestraat 146, Amsterdam – restaurantgitane.nl

The Willem

The Willem We've embraced it as one of Amsterdam's favorite spots – for lunch, drinks, and dinner, you've come to the right place. And if it's sunny, you'll want to settle down on their fantastic waterfront terrace, cocktail in hand. Tip: try the yuzu spritz. On dark days? Then snuggle up by the window with a candle on the table – what a place.
Haarlemmerplein 58, Amsterdam – de-willem.nl

Neighborhood cafe De Tros

The modern interior with artistic details gives neighborhood café De Tros a very homey atmosphere. The restaurant feels like a real living room, and you can easily spend hours there. The menu features a trendy mix of typical French dishes, true classics, and delicious snacks to share. Reservations are not accepted at this East Amsterdam neighborhood café. Full? Perhaps check out their next-door neighbor, Turbo Amsterdam.
Linnaeusstraat 63H, Amsterdam – detrosamsterdam.nl

Turbo Amsterdam

Turbo Amsterdam is a nod to the favorite car of the owners of this place: the Saab Turbo. Unfortunately it is no longer made, but Turbo Amsterdam is vibrant and modern. This new place – a sister of Café De Tros, see above – is a hangout spot Where you'd love to hang out all day. Luckily, you can, because they serve coffee, brunch, snacks, dinner, and are the new go-to spot for a successful Friday afternoon drink.
Reinwardtstraat 1, Amsterdam – turboamsterdam.nl

© De Willem

more casual restaurants for weekday dining

Café Maxwell

In a few years it is Beukenplein It's become the place to be for great restaurants and cafes. Café Maxwell, for example, is located there, where you always feel at home. The spacious terrace offers a wonderful view of passersby. Enjoy!
Beukenplein 27, Amsterdam – maxwellcafe.nl

The Japanese

Enjoy Japanese dishes until the wee hours, with a great playlist and delicious drinks. The Japanese restaurant is pretty full every day, so arrive early or reserve a spot. And definitely order the spinach salad, chicken katsu, and salmon tataki. You can thank me later ;)
Albert Cuypstraat 228 and Bilderdijkstraat 203, Amsterdam – dejapanner.com

plek

In North on the NDSM site Pllek is one of our favorite hangouts. The food is always surprisingly good, and in the summer, you can look out over the skyline of Amsterdam.
TT Neveritaweg 59, Amsterdam – pllek.nl

Café Cook

Café Cook is a classic case of "I wish every neighborhood had this." It has the friendly atmosphere of a good local pub, great beers on tap, and simply good food.
James Cookstraat 2, Amsterdam – cafecook.nl

Shefishe

Ceviche I could eat it every day, so I was thrilled when Sjefietshe opened its doors in De Pijp! The interior alone is reason enough for me to go, as are the beautiful plates that come out of the kitchen.
Van Ostadestraat 1, Amsterdam – sjefietshe.nl

Sjefietshe Amsterdam

Shefishe

Even more casual restaurants for weekday dining

Polly Goudvisch

Polly Goudvisch is one of our favorite spots in Amsterdam-Noord. Right next to the ferry, you can relax on a huge terrace to people-watch and enjoy a Friday afternoon drink. The perfect place to kick off the weekend.
Buiksloterweg 3-5, Amsterdam – polly.goudvisch.nl

VOLT

Volt is somewhat similar to Café Cook. Always enjoyable, the terrace is inviting, and the menu offers delicious dishes, though a bit more extensive than your average neighborhood pub.
Ferdinand Bolstraat 178, Amsterdam – restaurantvolt.nl

The Singing Swan

From the minds of Wijmpje Beukers and Schotsheuvel. De Zingende Zwaan is located just behind the Overtoom, and what an oasis of tranquility on the large terrace. Pub food with French and English twists is served in the kitchen.
First Helmerstraat 250, Amsterdam – dezingendezwaan.nl

Bar Bellini

Bar Bellini is such a lovely spot with Italian influences, where you'd love to hang out on a Friday. They serve bellinis, of course, but the wine list and other cocktails are also a delight. Bellini has quickly become the go-to place for making new friends. Casual, of course...
Ferdinand Bolstraat 17, Amsterdam – barbellini.nl

Bam Boa

After over 35 years, Portuguese restaurant Girassol on Weesperzijde said goodbye to the city and made way for Insta-heavenly Bam Boa. The result is a jaw-dropping sight: it's impeccably decorated, right down to the spoonful of coffee. And yes, the menu, with around twenty smaller dishes to share, is perfect for a date night with girlfriends.
Weesperzijde 135, Amsterdam – bam-boa-amsterdam.com

Casual restaurants Amsterdam

© The Singing Swan

More casual restaurants for weekday dining

THT

Looking for a nice restaurant in Amsterdam North Or near the ferry and Central Station? THT is perfect. The large restaurant always has a spot, and with its view of the IJ River and the Amsterdam skyline, you're always comfortable. They also offer smaller dishes to share, or just keep for yourself ;)
IJpromenade 2, Amsterdam – tht.nl

City café Van Mechelen

From coffee to coffee, Van Mechelen is a place where you can spend the whole day. Let the kids run around, read the newspaper, or chat with friends.
Sloterkade 96/97, Amsterdam – stadscafevanmechelen.nl

Stacks Dinner

Stacks Diner was born from the idea of ​​bringing American, home-style cooking to Amsterdam. It was a golden opportunity, as their popularity quickly became unprecedented. The dishes are simple and prepared just like a true American would at home: from a classic Caesar salad to crispy fish with coleslaw. The homemade cornbread is also a resounding success, as are the Bloody Mary, Dirty Martini, and Paloma.
De Clercqstraat 32, Amsterdam- stacksdiner.com

Bennies

At Bennies Amsterdam, they like to keep things simple: no menus that take fifteen minutes to choose from, leaving you overwhelmed with choices. Simple dishes made with good ingredients need little fuss, as this place proves. From sea bass ceviche to salmon tostada and burrata with bell pepper and tomato: they all shine in their simplicity. And anyone who loves natural winesYou'll be in luck at Bennies. The staff will happily recommend matching glasses (or bottles).
Helicopterstraat 28, 1059 CG Amsterdam – www.benniesrestaurant.nl

Le French Café

Opened last year Le French Café at the location of Bar Spek. The place has a cozy atmosphere, complete with typically French white tiles on the walls. For those in the know: the first place still exists and still draws full houses. JavastraatBoth establishments are packed with French classics and a relaxed atmosphere. You've come to the right place for an evening filled with French wine, champagne, and oysters, but also for a hearty lunch, dinner, or aperitif.
Javastraat 42 and Admiral de Ruijterweg 1, Amsterdam, lefrenchcafe.nl

© Le French Cafe

more casual restaurants for weekday dining

Mana Mana

Israeli street food is always a good idea. Fill your table with hummus, tehina, fried cauliflower, and roasted eggplant, and your evening will be perfect. Trust me. 
First Jan Steenstraat 85, Amsterdam – mana-mana.nl

The speech

At La Parole in Amsterdam-West (a stone's throw from the Foodhallen, to be precise), you're likely to be served by owner Manuel Broekman. With the utmost expertise, the staff serves French classics (with a modern twist here and there). The wines are also exclusively French, as is the decor and the extensive menu. Create your own menu or be surprised by the chef's selection.
Kwakersstraat 24, Amsterdam – laparole.nl

Bathhouse

By far one of the nicest and largest new terraces in Amsterdam East is the terrace of Bathhouse at JavapleinFrom morning to evening, enjoy watching people cycle by while you enjoy the Amsterdam summer sun. What's also relaxing about BathhouseYou can make a reservation for the terrace if you want to be sure of a spot. The drinks menu is spot on, and the dinner menu is also excellent (the burger is always a favorite!). In short: a great addition to the neighborhood and a place where everyone feels at home.
Javaplein 21, Amsterdam – badhuisamsterdam.nl

Bar Restaurant 1900

Duck breast with smoked garlic puree (!), cauliflower with tahini yoghurt, poké bowl with salmon, crispy chicken baos with kimchi mayo and so on: the menu at Bar Restaurant 1900 is full of delicacies that you want to sink your teeth into right away.
Hogeweg 48, Amsterdam – barrestaurant1900.nl

Café Restaurant Amsterdam

Steak tartare! Shrimp croquettes! Oysters! No matter what day of the week it is, at Café Restaurant Amsterdam (Cradam to those in the know), it's always a party.
Watertorenplein 5, Amsterdam – caferestaurantamsterdam.nl

Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam - Cradam

Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam

Even more casual restaurants for weekday dining

LouLou Pizzabar

For the tastiest pizza on the terrace I go to East always to LouLouThe terrace at the Weesperzijde has thankfully become much bigger since the takeover of the business next door. The pizzas are incredibly delicious and you can choose from ancient dough of gluten-free dough (made with a unique blend of pea flour, rice flour, and cornmeal). I can tell you: it's one of the few places where I eat every last pizza crust ;-). It's also a great place for a quick, early bite with the kids. pizza with bunny ears remains a hit.
Weesperzijde 42A, Amsterdam – louloupizzabar.nl

BAUT East

You say Wibautstraat then you say BAUT EastThis restaurant is a household name, and especially when it comes to the sunny terrace, you're always in luck. Enjoy a leisurely dinner or simply enjoy drinks. The advantage of the large terrace? There's almost always a spot available!
Wibautstraat 125, Amsterdam – bauoost.nl

Vooges on the IJ

Remember Vooges, the delightful restaurant with a very cozy atmosphere? This establishment is making a comeback, this time on the IJ River. On the rustic terrace, you can enjoy the warm rays of sunshine with a delicious lunch and a lovely glass of wine. Inside, the restaurant is perfect for an intimate date. The cozy interior is ideal for a romantic tête-à-tête with your partner. Its unique location makes Vooges aan het IJ an ideal spot for any occasion.
Westerdoksdijk 40H, Amsterdam – vooges.nl

Mussel & Gin

Mussels are always a good idea! Especially those with fennel and Roquefort (yes, really, a killer combo) or the Thai version. Even better with a gin and tonic; it's such a great way to break up the week.
Gosschalklaan 12, Amsterdam – mosselengin.nl

Casual restaurants Amsterdam

© BAUT Oost

Even more casual restaurants for weekday dining

Eighth Street

Calle Ocho is a mix of Mexico, Cuba, Miami, and everything in between. The music and food create a vibe like something out of the movie Chef, and chances are you won't want to leave after your meal.
Albert Cuypstraat 226, Amsterdam – calle-ocho.nl

Bar Central

Wine and food, what more could you want? At Bar Centraal – the little brother of Gurgling In De Pijp – drink your vin nature. You have to like it, but once you're a fan, you won't want to go back!
Ten Katestraat 16, Amsterdam – barcentraal.nl

Gallicia

Italian classics in a relaxed atmosphere. Great prices and friendly staff. What more could you want for a fantastic evening?
Javastraat 67, Amsterdam – gallizia.nl

Local of the city

A charming traditional pub between Rembrandtpark and the Westlandgracht canal. Perfect for a relaxing evening.
Heemstedestraat 68, Amsterdam – lokaalvandestad.nl

Fa. Brine herring

It's been one of my favorite spots on the Van WoustraatThe kitchen prepares the most delicious Mediterranean dishes (someone said arancini) and you are welcome here for a quick bite or an extensive dinner.
Van Woustraat 127, Amsterdam – pekelhaaring.nl

Casual restaurants Amsterdam

© Fa. Pekelhaaring

For you: Amsterdam tips that you want to keep top of mind

The tips and (restaurant) shortlists you always want to have at hand for a dose of Amsterdam inspiration.

► Restaurant hit-list: new restaurants | favorite restaurants | wine bars | lunch & brunch | breakfast | coffee | terraces | coming soon | more tips >>

► TOP 5 hotels: The Hoxton LLOYD | Hotel Jakarta | Pulitzer | Volkshotel | Sir Adam| more tips >>

► TOP-5 museums & experiences: The Foodwalk | STREET Museum | Fabrique des Lumieres | BUGGER | Amaze | more tips >> | PS: Don't live in Amsterdam? Rent a bike here >>

► Fun city trips by train from Amsterdam: Paris (from € 35,-), Antwerp (from € 21,-), London (from €103,- return), Berlin (from € 38,-) & Düsseldorf (from € 20,-)

► Weekend getaway from the city? Discover the most beautiful hotels en holiday homes in the Netherlands.

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