Amsterdam is known for its diverse culinary scene, and Asian cuisine is no exception. With a wide range of options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing Asian restaurants in Amsterdam that are worth checking out and that somehow they still meet a decent budget. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai, Chinese, Japanese, or Indonesian food and many others, Amsterdam has something to offer.
Defining Asian Cuisine in Amsterdam
Japanese all you can eat
The best way to start this article is to feed an empty stomach, and what else could be better then to enjoy an all you can eat buffet of Korean or Japanese food? I must say, Asian cuisine is one of our favourites, the flavours, the saltiness, the diversity, it’s just amazing.
1. MOJO
MOJO Japanese Kitchen is a culinary gem in the heart of Amsterdam, offering a vibrant escape into the world of Japanese cuisine. Located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Amsterdam Central Station, MOJO presents an alluring dining experience that combines the convenience of location with the luxury of fine dining.
Upon entering MOJO, diners are greeted by a chic and contemporary setting that sets the stage for an exceptional meal. The restaurant specializes in serving daily fresh sushi and crispy hot tempura, ensuring each bite is a testament to the freshness and quality of the ingredients. The sushi chefs at MOJO are masters of their craft, skillfully preparing each roll and nigiri with precision and care.
Per Person: Adults (Mon – Thu): €37.95 per person. All you can eat don’t forget ;).
Address – Oosterdokskade 133, 1011 DL Amsterdam
Korean Favorites
2. GAJA Korean BBQ & Bar
Embark on a culinary journey to Korea without leaving Amsterdam at GAJA Korean BBQ. Here, you can savor traditional Korean delicacies like bulgogi, galbi, samgyupsal, bibimbap, and the fiery kimchi stew.
GAJA operates on an ‘all-you-can-eat’ principle, allowing you to feast on a variety of dishes for a set price. But the gastronomic adventure doesn’t stop there. We also offer Korean BBQ set menus, giving you the chance to grill your own meat or vegetables to your liking, right at your table.
As you relish the flavors of Korea, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Amsterdam’s waterscape. It’s a dining experience that promises to delight your palate and your senses.
Per Person: Adults (Mon – Wed): €36.95 per person (Thu – Sun): 38.95€. All you can eat don’t forget 😉
Address – Oosterdokskade 145, 1011 DL Amsterdam
3. Soju Bar
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Korea at Soju Bar, and celebrate the Korean tradition of companionship through food and drinks.
The menu features comfort food at its finest, with a special focus on Korean Fried Chicken. Each piece is crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. In addition to the signature chicken, they offer a variety of other Korean dishes like bibimbap, kimbab, and mandu.
But what would a visit to Soju Bar be without trying the namesake drink? Try the wide selection of Soju, a popular Korean spirit.
Address – Ferdinand Bolstraat 13-15, 1072 LA Amsterdam
Chinese Culinary Delights
Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures, and Chinese cuisine is no exception. The city boasts a wide range of Chinese restaurants, each with its unique flair and style. From dim sum to Sichuan dishes, there is something for everyone.
Dim Sum and Cantonese Classics
3. Oriental City
Oriental City in Amsterdam, a high-quality Cantonese restaurant with profound cultural heritage, was founded in 19731. It has been serving authentic traditional Dim Sum and Cantonese cuisine for over half a century. The menu includes a wide variety of dishes, from steamed pastries of pork and shrimp to dry-baked crab with crispy shredded onion. They also offer black fried rice with seafood and whole roasted lute-duck.
Address – Oudezijds Voorburgwal 177-179, 1012 EV Amsterdam
4. New King
For those in search of authentic Mandarin cuisine, New King is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this restaurant serves up generous portions of Chinese cuisine, including notable dishes like BBQ pork and dim sum in a charming atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its extensive dim sum menu, which includes classics like har gow and siu mai, as well as lesser-known options like deep-fried taro dumplings.
Address – Zeedijk 115-117, 1012 AV Amsterdam
5. Sea Palace
Sea Palace is a floating restaurant that offers stunning views of Amsterdam’s harbor. The restaurant is known for its Cantonese cuisine, and it’s famous for its Beijing duck. The duck is roasted to perfection and served with thin pancakes, spring onions, and hoisin sauce. Sea Palace also has an extensive dim sum menu, which includes over 50 different options.
Address – Oosterdokskade 8, 1011 AE Amsterdam
6. Yuan’s Hot Pot
For those who love spicy food, Sichuan cuisine is a must-try. Yuan’s Hot Pot is a popular spot for Sichuan cuisine, located in the Zuid district of Amsterdam. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, where diners cook their food in a hot pot filled with spicy broth. The menu includes a wide variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, as well as a range of dipping sauces.
Address – Rijnstraat 51, 1078 PZ Amsterdam | Ferdinand Bolstraat 18, 1072 LJ Amsterdam |
Beethovenstraat 633 1083 HK Amsterdam
Indonesian and Thai Flavor Journeys
If you’re looking for an explosion of flavors, Amsterdam’s Indonesian and Thai restaurants are a must-visit. These restaurants offer a variety of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the best Indonesian and Thai restaurants in Amsterdam:
7. Rakang
The restaurant features a diverse Thai menu with generous portions, in the bangkok style cooking. The Tom Kha Kai soup is a famous already in the Thai cuisine and will not disappoint you. For the brave hot ones, the Ped-Ob Rad Prik Sod (Duck) is a delicious adventure. The restaurant also has a cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Address – Elandsgracht 29-31, 1016 TM Amsterdam
Rijsttafel and Satay Sensations
Rijsttafel, which means “rice table” in Dutch, is a traditional Indonesian meal that consists of a variety of dishes served with rice. It’s a great way to sample the different flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Some of the best places to try rijsttafel in Amsterdam include Restaurant Blauw and Sama Sebo.
8. Blauw
Experience the rich tapestry of Indonesian cuisine at Blauw Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Amsterdam. Blauw is renowned for its authentic and innovative Indonesian dishes, ranging from spicy stews to fresh salads and sweet treats. The restaurant operates on a principle of culinary authenticity, combining traditional preparation methods with a unique touch. The “rijsttafel” is a must try here.
Address – Amstelveenseweg 158-160, 1075 XN Amsterdam
9. Sama Sebo
Satay, or skewered meat, is another Indonesian specialty that’s popular in Amsterdam. A great place to try satay includes Sate Bar.
Address – Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat 27, 1071 BL Amsterdam
10. Sate Bar
Sate bar is a Food Truck specialized in serving authentic Indonesian Sate. This food truck is owned by son and mother in which the son proudly claims she’s the best Indonesian cook in the Amsterdam if not the Netherlands. So if you want the best food from a proud Indonesian mom, make sure you catch them on Saturdays in Amsterdam.
Address – Markt Lindengracht (Only on Saturdays)
Thai Food Favorites
Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh herbs and spices. Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish, is one of the most popular Thai dishes in Amsterdam. Some of the best places to try Pad Thai include Bird Thai Snackbar, Siam Thai Restaurant, and Bird Thais Restaurant.
11. Thaise Snackbar Bird
At Thaise Snackbar Bird, you can indulge in a range of Thai classics, from the rich and flavorful coconut soup to the spicy red curry and the ever-popular Thai chicken green curry. The restaurant is also known for its quick service, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal in a hurry.
Despite its modest size, Thaise Snackbar Bird doesn’t compromise on the quality or the authenticity of its dishes. The kitchen is always buzzing with activity, and the aroma of spices and herbs fills the air, adding to the overall dining experience.
Good To Know – If you are a low budget but still want to enjoy some good Thai food, they always have a daily dish for 14.5€ for Take-away.
Address – Zeedijk 77, 1012 AS Amsterdam
12. Siam Thai Restaurant
Their menu is a culinary journey through Thailand, featuring everything from noodles, rice, fish, meat, snacks, and drinks to a complete buffet or lunch for your company or at home.
One of the must tries, is the grilled sea bass, but also the fish cakes, poke bowl, sushi, and rice.
Good To Know – They also offer a catering service, providing a tailor-made offer to complete your party or occasion with the best Thai food in Amsterdam.
Address – Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 105, 1012 RG Amsterdam
13. Bird Thais Restaurant
Bird Thais Restaurant is renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine, crafted with the finest ingredients. The menu features a variety of traditional Thai dishes, including crispy vegetable spring rolls, shrimp satay skewers slathered in a tangy Thai sauce, and a selection of specialty entrées.
One dish that stands out is the ‘kwai tiou pad ki maul’, a “drunken noodle” dish with chicken, garlic, basil, and chili peppers served with spicy fried noodles.
But the culinary journey doesn’t end there. At Bird Thais Restaurant, you can also enjoy a variety of other dishes, including sliced beef in a spicy paneng curry sauce and coconut milk, and pork in sweet and sour sauce served with rice.
Address – Zeedijk 72-74, 1012 BA Amsterdam
Curries are another staple of Thai cuisine, and Amsterdam has no shortage of great Thai curry restaurants. Some of the best places to try Thai curries in Amsterdam include Boi Boi.
14. Boi boi
This restaurant is unique as the cooks are from Laos. Laos, as a former French colony, it has influences like baguette and wine and some French joie de vivre. As Amsterdam does not have a Laotian style restaurant, they pride themselves of bringing the flavours and culture of the Laotian and Thai cuisine.
Good To Know – They have a small but delicious selection of Organic wines chosen by their own sommelier. They also sell these cool t-shirts and sweaters if you would like to support them.
Address – Pieter Vlamingstraat 56, 1093 AG Amsterdam
15. Little Thai Prince
At Little Thai Prince, you can savor a variety of traditional Thai dishes, each meticulously prepared and bursting with flavor. From crispy vegetable spring rolls and shrimp satay skewers slathered in tangy Thai sauce, to specialty entrées, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The specialty is the ‘kwai tiou pad ki maul’, a “drunken noodle” dish with chicken, garlic, basil, and chili peppers served with spicy fried noodles. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich flavors of Thai cuisine.
Despite its modest size, Little Thai Prince doesn’t compromise on quality or authenticity. The kitchen is always buzzing with activity, and the aroma of spices and herbs fills the air, adding to the overall dining experience.
Address – Zeedijk 33A, 1012 AR Amsterdam
Nepalese favorite
16. Bhatti Pasal
Tucked away in the heart of Amsterdam, just a stone’s throw from Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, Koningsplein, and The Dam Square, you’ll find Bhatti Pasal. This authentic Nepalese restaurant serves gratifying, authentic Nepalese food, transporting you straight to the narrow alleyways of Nepal.
Bhatti Pasal is a small eatery that offers a quick lunch, dinner, and shared dining experience. Despite its modest size, it doesn’t compromise on the authenticity and deliciousness of its dishes.
Good To Know – Due to the limited seating, they operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. So, if you’re looking for a culinary adventure that takes you through the flavors of Nepal, Bhatti Pasal is a must-visit. Just remember, it’s not a place for fine dining and relaxing, but a place for a quick, authentic, and satisfying meal.
Address – Kerkstraat 332 1017 JA Amsterdam | Voetboogstraat 23 1012 XK Amsterdam
Indian Favorites
17. Guru
At Guru, you go on a culinary journey through the diverse regions of India, offering an array of traditional dishes. the menu is a testament to the rich flavors and varied textures of Indian cuisine. From the hearty dal soup and crispy vegetable samosa to the robust chana masala and flavorful aloo gobi, there’s something to tantalize every palate.
Good To Know – In addition to the à la carte menu, they offer set menus that allow you to sample a variety of dishes.
Address – Rijnstraat 157, 1079 HD Amsterdam
Vietnamese Favorites
18. Pho 91
Nestled in the lively Albert Cuypmarkt of Amsterdam, you’ll find Pho 91, a Vietnamese eatery that specializes in delicious and healthy Vietnamese food. This restaurant offers a relaxed, informal, and welcoming environment, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists.
Pho 91’s menu is inspired by popular and traditional fare typically prepared and sold on the streets of Vietnam. They serve tasty, memorable dishes made from their family’s recipes and fresh, locally-sourced produce. The majority of their dishes are gluten, egg & dairy-free, and there is a strong selection of exciting choices for vegetarians and vegans.
One of the highlights of Pho 91 is their commitment to freshness and quality. They do not use pre-packaged or processed products. Many of their fresh ingredients come directly from the markets on their doorstep.
Good To Know – Definitely try the Pho 91 Noodle Soup. We love eating it during the winter, on a nice rainy cold day.
Address – Albert Cuypstraat 91 H, 1072 CP Amsterdam
Amsterdam has many options to offer when it comes to Asian dining, from cheap eats to mid-range to more expensive options, from many corners of Asia, so you always have an option when the Asian cravings come, or if you can’t decide, just use the good ol’Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Now is time to experiment them all if you haven’t yet.
If you are looking for Cheap eats in Amsterdam check here: 35 Best Budget Eats In Amsterdam
If you are looking for Asian fine dining experiences check here: 10 Best Asian Restaurants in Amsterdam – When Luxury Meets Dining
