As someone who loves to explore new cuisines while traveling, I can confidently say that Amsterdam has some of the best Asian restaurants in Europe. Whether you’re looking for a casual dining experience or a luxurious fine dining experience, the city has something for everyone.
From Chinese to Japanese, Thai to Korean, the Asian food scene in Amsterdam is diverse and vibrant. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience, from traditional decor to modern fusion cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, these restaurants are sure to impress.
While some of these restaurants may be on the pricier side, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience make it worth the splurge. So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a memorable meal, these 12 Asian restaurants in Amsterdam are definitely worth checking out.
Influence of Local Ingredients
One of the defining features of Asian cuisine in Amsterdam is the use of local ingredients. Many Asian restaurants in Amsterdam source their ingredients locally, which not only supports local farmers and businesses but also ensures that the ingredients are fresh and of high quality. This commitment to using local ingredients is reflected in the taste and quality of the dishes.
Fusion of International Flavors
Another aspect that sets Asian cuisine in Amsterdam apart is the fusion of international flavors. Many Asian restaurants in the city have taken traditional Asian dishes and infused them with flavors from other cuisines, such as Dutch, Portuguese, and French. This fusion of flavors creates unique and exciting dishes that are a true reflection of Amsterdam’s diverse culinary scene.
Top-Rated Asian Restaurants
1. Ron Gastrobar Indonesia
Ron Gastrobar Indonesia is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves Indonesian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is part of the Ron Gastrobar group, which is known for its innovative approach to fine dining. The menu features a variety of dishes, including the famous rijsttafel, which is a traditional Indonesian meal consisting of rice and multiple small side dishes. The restaurant has a sleek and modern interior, which creates a luxurious atmosphere.
Address – Amstelzijde 51, 1184 TZ Amstelveen
2. Ron Gastrobar Oriental
Ron Gastrobar Oriental is another Michelin-starred restaurant that is part of the Ron Gastrobar group. The restaurant serves Asian fusion cuisine, which combines flavors from different Asian countries. The menu features dishes like dim sum, sushi, and wagyu beef. The restaurant has a contemporary design, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs at work.
Address – Kerkstraat 23, 1017 GA Amsterdam
3. HOSOKAWA
For a unique dining experience, Hosokawa is serving the Amsterdam food lovers for over 30 years. Hosokawa, which means “narrow river,” takes you on a journey to ancient Japan with its authentic Japanese cuisine. The teppanyaki concept (“teppan” – iron plate, “yaki” – grilled) is built on three key pillars: exceptionally fresh ingredients, high-quality equipment, and the skill of the chef.
Good To Know – This restaurant is officially accredited as an Authentic Japanese Restaurant.
Address – Max Euweplein 22, Amsterdam
4. Mayur
Mayur is a high-end Indian restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. The restaurant has a sophisticated interior, with elegant furnishings and soft lighting. The menu features classic Indian dishes like tandoori chicken and lamb rogan josh. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, which includes both Indian and international wines.
Address – Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 203, 1017 RB Amsterdam
5. Ku Kitchen & Bar
Ku Kitchen & Bar is a modern Japanese restaurant that serves sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. The restaurant has a minimalist interior, with clean lines and a muted color palette. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, as well as hot dishes like tempura and teriyaki. The restaurant also has a selection of sake and Japanese whisky.
Address – Utrechtsestraat 114, 1017 VT Amsterdam
6. Krua Thai Classic Restaurant
Krua Thai Classic Restaurant is a cozy Thai restaurant located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Jordaan district. It’s family-owned since 1991. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with traditional Thai decor. The menu features classic Thai dishes like pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. The restaurant also has a selection of Thai beers and wines. The family claims to keep original flavors and keep the food as authentic as possible.
Address – Staalstraat 22, 1011 JM Amsterdam
7. FuLu Mandarijn Amsterdam
FuLu Mandarijn Amsterdam is a Chinese restaurant that serves authentic Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant has a traditional Chinese decor, with red lanterns and ornate furnishings. The menu features dishes like dim sum, crispy duck, and sweet and sour pork. The restaurant also has an extensive tea menu, which includes both Chinese and Taiwanese teas.
Address – Rokin 26, 1012 KS Amsterdam
8. Teppanyaki Restaurant Sazanka
Teppanyaki Restaurant Sazanka is a Japanese restaurant that specializes in teppanyaki, which is a style of cooking where the food is prepared on a hot iron griddle. The restaurant has a modern interior, with a large teppanyaki grill in the center of the dining room. The menu features a variety of meats and seafood, as well as vegetarian options. The restaurant also has a selection of sake and Japanese beers.
Good To Know – This restaurant has a dress code, Smart casual (no shorts, no flip flops).
Address – Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, 1072 LH Amsterdam
9. Yamazato
For those seeking the best sushi and nigiri in Amsterdam, Yamazato is the place to be. This Michelin-starred restaurant is located inside the Okura Hotel and offers an extensive menu of sushi and sashimi dishes. The restaurant serves traditional Japanese cuisine, and the sushi and nigiri are made with the freshest ingredients available. The chefs at Yamazato are highly skilled and create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant’s interior is elegant and features a traditional Japanese design, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
Address – Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, 1072 LH Amsterdam
10. Umani by Han
Umani by Han is a modern Asian fusion restaurant that serves dishes from all over Asia. The restaurant has a sleek and stylish interior, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs at work. The menu features dishes like Korean fried chicken, Vietnamese spring rolls, and Thai green curry. The restaurant also has an impressive cocktail menu, which includes both classic and innovative cocktails.
Address – Overtoom 31HS, 1054 HB Amsterdam
Awards and Recognitions
As an avid foodie, I always look for restaurants that have received awards and recognitions for their culinary skills. Amsterdam has a number of Asian restaurants that have been recognized for their exceptional food and service.
Michelin Stars and Bib Gourmands
Michelin stars are the most prestigious awards a restaurant can receive, and Amsterdam has a few Asian restaurants that have been awarded them. Sinne and ARCA are two Michelin-starred restaurants that offer Asian-inspired cuisine. Sinne is known for its fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors, while ARCA introduces a casual Portuguese sharing plates experience infused with modern flavours, Asian inspirations, and impressive cocktails.
11. Sinne
Address – Ceintuurbaan 342 Huis, 1072 GP Amsterdam
12. ARCA
Address – Martelaarsgracht 5, 1012 TM Amsterdam
Worth mentions
MOMO
MOMO is a trendy Asian fusion restaurant located in the heart of Amsterdam’s museum district. The restaurant has a chic and stylish interior, with an impressive bar and lounge area. The menu features dishes from all over Asia, including sushi, dim sum, and Thai curries. The restaurant is known for its innovative cocktails, which are made with exotic ingredients like lychee and lemongrass.
Address – Hobbemastraat 1, 1071 XZ Amsterdam
These are my top picks for the 12 best Asian restaurants in Amsterdam. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, dim sum, or curry, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s a perfect opportunity to put that nice dress or suit that you always wanted to wear in a special occasion and go enjoy a perfect meal in a perfect clothing. Have you experienced a great Asian restaurant that is not here? I would love to know more and of course will try it myself.