Something to celebrate?

May 23, 2025

Some places just call for a little extra sparkle, whether it's your best friend's birthday, a big life win, or just an excuse to dress up and go all out. From walk-in wine cellars to fire-kissed tasting menus and velvet-lined brasseries, these spots are made for clinking glasses and making memories. Go big, go bold, and don’t forget to book ahead. You’re in for a night worth remembering, you're in for a treat.

Arles

De Pijp | Playful French cuisine | Candlelit charm | Chef’s menu or à la carte | Warm and intimate vibe

We recently found ourselves back at Arles, and honestly, we’re wondering why we ever waited so long. This charming spot in De Pijp is one of those places that quietly steals your heart all over again.

Serving à la carte, or a four- or five-course chef’s menu, Arles brings playful French dishes with exciting yet comforting flavors. We kicked things off with dashi beurre blanc oysters and a glass of champagne — très chic, très delicious. We always ask for wine advice here, and the team is more than happy to guide you

The vibe? Candlelight in wine bottles (always a yes), a captivating collage-style mural, soft acoustics, and a cozy orangery that opens onto a little courtyard in summer. Intimate, inviting, and full of heart.

Christaan Smit

Jordaan | Historic Amsterdam charm | Open kitchen | Refined | Aesthetic

Kiki has a more mature, fine dining brother just down the street: Christiaan Smit. An adorable little spot with serious charm. About 15 tables, an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs in action, walls lined with wine treasures, and crisp white table linen that makes it feel a bit fancy but still super welcoming.

The building dates back to 1616 (!), and it still has that magical old-Amsterdam feel. What makes it extra special? The restaurant boasts a rare architectural treat: Zon’s Hofje, a hidden patio at the back, allowing daylight to pour in from both ends. It’s rare, and it adds something elegant and dreamy to the whole vibe 🤍

You can go à la carte, or pick the 4- or 5-course menu. We went for a pescatarian version and wow, it was next level. Every dish felt light and seasonal, beautifully balanced, and not overcomplicated. Think delicate flavors, fun textures, and plates that look like little artworks but still taste like real food. Our fave? Hard to choose. Let’s just say: you’ll want to take your time here

Jondani

Oud-Zuid | Wauw interior | Posh terrace | Quality food | Feels like a million bucks

The Beethovenstraat is leveling up its culinary game, and the latest hotspot leading the charge is Jondani. Nestled in the heart of Oud-Zuid, this elegant brasserie blends classic French flair with a touch of Amsterdam cool, creating the perfect setting for both fine dining and people-watching

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a warm, stylish ambiance—think rich velvet seating, golden accents, and soft, moody lighting. The menu is a love letter to French gastronomy, with dishes that are both refined and comforting. Expect classics like tender steak frites, buttery escargots, and silky foie gras, all served with a modern twist. Pair it with a glass of perfectly chilled Sancerre, and you’ve got yourself a night to remember.

Beyond the food, Jondani is quickly becoming the place to see and be seen. Whether you’re catching up over a long, lazy lunch or sipping cocktails into the evening, this spot effortlessly blends laid-back luxury with a buzzy, cosmopolitan vibe. Looking for your next go-to brasserie in Amsterdam? Jondani is calling.

Restaurant Europa

Noord | Bar seats only | 18 guests | Fermentation & seasonal focus | Creative industrial setting

Tucked away in an industrial space in Amsterdam Noord, Restaurant Europa offers a high-end dining experience that feels anything but traditional. The first thing you’ll notice? A striking zigzag-shaped bar that runs through the entire space, placing every guest right in the heart of the action. No tables, hosting just 18 guests at a time on the 25m long bar.

Here, the chefs don’t hide behind closed doors. They cook eight dishes live right in front of you, transforming seasonal ingredients into beautifully balanced, inventive dishes with a focus on vegetables, fish, and fermentation. Each plate is refined, exciting, and full of intention.

With its raw design, energetic vibe, and outstanding food, Europa is the kind of place where fine dining meets creative freedom. Perfect for a special night out, without all the stiffness. It’s modern, rebellious and artsy.

Restaurant Fyr

East | Elemental wood-fired cooking | New menu every two weeks | Concept based on elements

Tucked away in the Czaar Peterbuurt, FYR is one of those rare finds that leaves a lasting impression. Inspired by the four elements - fire, earth, air, and water – this intimate restaurant transforms pure ingredients into culinary art, right before your eyes.

At the heart of it all is Elian, owner and Executive Chef, whose elemental cooking style brings together balance, simplicity, and explosiveness. Expect wood-fired dishes, seasonal creations, and unexpected flavor combinations that truly blow your mind.

The vibe is stylish yet warm, with the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger just a little longer. And the best part? The menu changes often, so there’s always something new to discover. Everything is made with ultra-fresh ingredients, and you can taste the quality in every single bite.

Trust us, this is one of the best meals we’ve had in a long time. From the beautifully grilled leeks with miso & smoked egg yolk to the perfectly cooked fish and surprising desserts, FYR is the kind of place that reminds you why you love food

Troef

East | High-end restobar | Open kitchen | Walk-in wine cellar | Bold menu

The troef / the ace, the beste card in the deck! Well it’s definitely part of the best restobars in Amsterdam! Pricey, but worth it. The ambiance is beautiful and you can enjoy the art of cooking through their open kitchen.

Even though the menu isn’t that extensive, it’s still difficult to make a decision because everything sounds too interesting not to try. Let alone their wine cellar!! It’s a walk-in. A dream closet with over 3000 wines is waiting for you to be discovered!

Time to celebrate? Then plan your reservation in advance, even on a Monday. We guarantee an outstanding experience. But promise us one thing… you have to go all in and enjoy the ride!

Watergang

Center | Monthly surprise menu | Cozy | Hidden Gem | Fine Dining

A true hidden gem tucked away in a charming Amsterdam house on a cozy little street. As the sun sets, the warm ambiance inside becomes visible through the windows, inviting from the very start.

The concept is a five-course surprise menu that changes monthly. No choices needed, just sit back and enjoy the ride with great food and wine.

The evening begins with a fresh seaweed amuse, followed by dishes like mackerel tartare, caviar potato, and juicy quail as the main. For dessert, choose sweet, savory, or both. Everything is perfectly balanced and well-executed. Kudos to the chef!

The wine pairings are thoughtful and refreshing, with passionate storytelling from the staff that elevates the experience.

An intimate setting ideal for date nights or catching up with a friend. And with a new menu every month, there's always a reason to come back.