Just a few minutes from central Amsterdam, the bohemian neighbourhood of De Pijp is brimming with boutiques, cafes and some of the best restaurants anywhere in the city.
(Photo: Café Caron)
Being so close to the heart of the Amsterdam action, the bustling district makes for a popular place to mosey for visitors. And for those seeking a memorable meal away from the many tourist traps of the city centre, it is also packed full of charming neighbourhood restaurants – including a wide range of ethnic eateries serving authentic cuisine from across the world. To help whet your appetite, we’ve picked out 5 of the best places to eat in De Pjip below.
Café Caron
There’s always a risk of style over substance with celebrity-led restaurants, but that is one accusation that cannot be levelled at this enchanting French bistro. Opened by acclaimed Dutch Chef Alain Caron, a star of Dutch television, this family-run eatery combines refined elegance with a warm and inviting ambience that draws a steady stream of patrons every evening. Wooden furniture lends the restaurant a rustic look and feel, while a glass-covered terrace floods it in light. As for the food, the seasonally-changing menu offers a unique spin on classic bistro fare and there’s also an exceptional wine list.
Frans Halsstraat 28
‘T Heemelrijck Cafe Restaurant
(Photo: ‘T Heemelrijck Cafe Restaurant)
Amid all of De Pijp’s many ethnic eateries serving international fare, ‘T Heemelrijck stands out for its laser-like focus on traditional, expertly-cooked Dutch cuisine. Stained glass windows, wood panelling and wall-mounted delft blue dishes characterise the family-owned restaurant’s attractive interior, and carpet tablecloths add to the casual atmosphere The kitchen pumps out classic Dutch dishes with a modern twist, including three variations of ‘stamppot’ (mashed potatoes and vegetables with sausages) and beef stews, with many of the ingredients sourced from a local market.
Van Woustraat 23
Sjefietshe
Far removed from your typical fish restaurant, Sjefietshe is a veritable melting pot of influences, fusing the zing of Asian cuisine with classic Latin American flavours, all set against the aesthetic and ambience of casual European fine dining. Focussed on small sharing plates, the restaurant has gained particular repute for its ceviche and baked octopus dishes, while a long cocktail list featuring such Latino-themed enticements as pisco sours and mezcal martinis add to the appeal. There’s also an outdoor terrace offering al fresco dining.
Van Ostadestraat 1
Olive&Cookie
(Photo: Olive&Cookie)
It’s no surprise that a district like De Pijp, with its famously laid-back crowd, has its own thriving vegan restaurant. A pretty European-style eatery, Olive&Cookie offers a large choice of flavourful vegetarian, plant-based and gluten-free dishes, all freshly made from seasonal ingredients, that draw health-conscious diners from far and wide. The intimate setting, with its rustic decor and warm lighting, has also helped turn the eatery into a cherished community favourite where locals and tourists alike gather for leisurely lunches and cosy dinners each day.
Saenredamstraat 67HS
Miri Mary
Discover the best of Indian culinary innovation at this modern, welcoming restaurant boasting stylish decor, a leafy outdoor terrace, and a focus on shared experiences. Whether you’re joining for brunch or dinner, you’ll enjoy an array of flavourful dishes. The brunch menu features such enticing creations as butter chicken benedict, a blend of classic brunch with an Indian twist. For dinner, the signature charcoal-smoked black lentil dal, slow-cooked for a rich, comforting taste, receives rave reviews. Then there’s the chance to pair your meal with one of their innovative cocktails, designed to complement the bold flavours of the restaurant’s cuisine.
Van der Helstplein 15H