Amsterdam’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, offering food enthusiasts a plethora of new dining experiences. Here are some recent additions to the city’s vibrant food scene that are worth exploring.
New Restaurant Openings
Horta
Located in Amsterdam-Zuid, Horta brings the flavors of Spain to the city. Spearheaded by entrepreneur Raul Lansink, known for his Peruvian restaurant NAZKA, Horta focuses on modern Spanish cuisine with influences from Valencia and Catalonia. The menu features dishes like paella with chicken or seafood, prepared with rice sourced from chef Polo Alemany’s hometown. For lunch, patrons can enjoy a traditional Spanish ‘Menu del Día’ offering two or three courses. The restaurant also boasts a spacious terrace, perfect for sunny days.
Ottolenghi Amsterdam
Renowned British-Israeli chef Yotam Ottolenghi has opened his first Dutch restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium in Amsterdam-Zuid. The menu emphasizes vegetable-forward dishes, celebrating local Dutch produce with Ottolenghi’s signature twist. Highlights include celeriac shawarma with pita, bkeila, and fermented tomato, as well as white and green asparagus with pickled chili, anchovy, and seed dukkah. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a vibrant all-day dining experience.
Food Trucks to Visit
Dos Pollos Amigos
For those craving succulent grilled chicken, Dos Pollos Amigos is a must-visit. Operating every Saturday at the Lindengracht Market, this food truck offers a variety of chicken dishes, including whole grilled chickens, pulled chicken sandwiches, and crispy tenders. Each chicken is slowly grilled with a proprietary spice mix, ensuring a flavorful experience. The friendly duo behind the truck also cater to private events, bringing their signature flavors to parties and gatherings.
Abu Salie Falafel
Falafel enthusiasts should not miss Abu Salie Falafel, acclaimed for serving some of the best falafel in Amsterdam. Their food truck can be found at Haarlemmerplein Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays, Noordermarkt on Saturdays, and Zuidas Markt on Thursdays. The menu features toasted pita filled with falafel and fresh hummus, as well as the popular Sabich wrap, which includes fried eggplant, hummus, tahini, and a medley of vegetables, topped with amba and zhoug.
Amsterdam’s dynamic food scene offers a wealth of new flavors and experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal at a new restaurant or a quick bite from a food truck, the city has something to satisfy every palate.