Amsterdam, a city renowned for its canals, bicycles, and liberal atmosphere, also boasts a vibrant and rapidly evolving food scene. Among the diverse cuisines represented, Asian flavors stand out as a major draw for both locals and tourists alike. From the comforting warmth of a bowl of ramen to the complex aromas of Indonesian spices, Amsterdam offers a tantalizing array of Asian culinary experiences. This article serves as your curated guide to discovering some of the best Asian food Amsterdam has to offer, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you are a seasoned Asian food aficionado or a curious newcomer eager to explore, prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This city is truly a melting pot of cultures, and its Asian food scene is a testament to that diversity.
From authentic ramen shops meticulously crafting their broths to innovative fusion concepts pushing culinary boundaries, Amsterdam presents a dazzling array of Asian flavors sure to satisfy every palate. If you’re looking for the best Asian food Amsterdam can provide, you have come to the right place. Get ready to explore!
Ramen Dreams: A Noodle Nirvana
Amsterdam’s ramen scene has exploded in recent years, offering a diverse range of interpretations of this beloved Japanese noodle soup. No longer a niche offering, ramen shops are now a staple of the city’s culinary landscape. The quest for the perfect bowl is a serious endeavor for many, and Amsterdam provides ample opportunities to pursue this delicious goal. Finding the best Asian food Amsterdam can be a challenging but fulfilling pursuit.
Sapporo Ramen Sora
One standout establishment is Sapporo Ramen Sora, located in the bustling city center. This ramen haven specializes in Sapporo-style ramen, known for its rich and creamy miso broth. Their signature dish features perfectly chewy noodles, tender chashu pork, and a generous serving of vegetables. What truly sets Sapporo Ramen Sora apart is their dedication to using high-quality ingredients and crafting a broth that is both deeply flavorful and incredibly comforting. Prepare to queue, as this spot is popular, but the reward is well worth the wait. A bowl of ramen here will set you back around €15-€20, a reasonable price for the quality you receive. I remember visiting on a chilly evening, and the warmth of the broth instantly chased away the cold. The umami flavors lingered long after the last slurp.
Fou Fow Ramen Udon
For a different ramen experience, venture to Fou Fow Ramen Udon. With multiple locations across the city, Fou Fow offers a more casual and modern take on ramen. While they serve classic tonkotsu and shoyu ramen, their real strength lies in their creative variations. Try their spicy kimchi ramen for a fiery kick or their vegan ramen for a plant-based delight. The noodles at Fou Fow are always perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and vibrant. The price point is slightly lower than Sapporo Ramen Sora, making it a great option for a quick and affordable meal. I once tried their black garlic ramen, and the intense garlicky flavor was unforgettable.
Men Impossible
Finally, don’t miss Men Impossible, a unique and experimental ramen shop that pushes the boundaries of traditional ramen. They focus on using local and seasonal ingredients, resulting in ramen bowls that are both delicious and sustainable. Their menu changes frequently, so you can always expect something new and exciting. While the price point is higher than other ramen shops, the experience is truly worth it for adventurous eaters. Their broth is almost always a masterclass.
A Taste of Vietnam: Fragrant and Fresh
Beyond ramen, Amsterdam boasts a thriving Vietnamese food scene, characterized by fragrant herbs, fresh ingredients, and delicate flavors. Vietnamese cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, creating a truly harmonious dining experience. From steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches, Vietnamese food offers something for everyone. If you are looking for the best Asian food Amsterdam offers, you cannot ignore the Vietnamese culinary landscape.
Pho 91
Pho 91 is a local favorite known for its authentic and flavorful pho. Located in the De Pijp neighborhood, this unassuming restaurant serves up steaming bowls of pho with perfectly cooked rice noodles, tender slices of beef, and a fragrant broth that is simmered for hours. The secret, they say, is in the broth. The pho broth is the foundation of the dish, and Pho 91 has mastered the art of creating a broth that is both deeply flavorful and incredibly comforting. Add a squeeze of lime, a handful of fresh herbs, and a dollop of chili sauce to customize your bowl to your liking. Their banh mi sandwiches are also a must-try, featuring crispy baguettes filled with flavorful meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro.
Little Saigon
Another gem in Amsterdam’s Vietnamese food scene is Little Saigon. This restaurant offers a more extensive menu, showcasing a wider range of Vietnamese dishes. From fresh spring rolls to savory banh xeo crepes, Little Saigon offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Their bun cha is a standout dish, featuring grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. The atmosphere at Little Saigon is warm and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The prices are reasonable, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious diners.
Banh Mi 87
If you want a quick and delicious lunch, visit Banh Mi 87. Their selection of banh mi sandwiches is simply unparalleled!
Sushi Sensations: Art on a Plate
Sushi lovers will be delighted by Amsterdam’s diverse selection of sushi restaurants. From traditional nigiri and sashimi to innovative and creative rolls, Amsterdam offers a sushi experience to suit every taste. Freshness is key when it comes to sushi, and Amsterdam’s sushi restaurants prioritize sourcing high-quality ingredients to ensure a delicious and satisfying dining experience. Discovering the best Asian food Amsterdam has available requires delving into the world of sushi.
Sushi Samba
Sushi Samba is a popular choice for those seeking a high-end sushi experience. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this stylish restaurant offers a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavors. Their menu features a wide range of sushi and sashimi, as well as grilled meats, ceviche, and other South American specialties. The atmosphere at Sushi Samba is vibrant and lively, making it a great place for a special occasion or a night out with friends. Be prepared to spend a bit more, as the prices are on the higher side.
Genki Sushi
For a more traditional sushi experience, try Genki Sushi. This no-frills restaurant focuses on serving high-quality sushi at affordable prices. Their menu features all the classic sushi dishes, from nigiri and sashimi to rolls and temaki. The fish is always fresh, and the rice is perfectly seasoned. Genki Sushi is a great option for a quick and satisfying sushi meal without breaking the bank.
Sea Palace Restaurant
There is also Sea Palace Restaurant, for sushi with a view. This is the perfect place to take a special someone!
Korean Delights: Spicy and Savory
Korean cuisine has gained immense popularity worldwide, and Amsterdam is no exception. From the fiery kick of kimchi to the savory flavors of Korean BBQ, Korean food offers a unique and satisfying culinary experience. Amsterdam’s Korean restaurants showcase a variety of Korean dishes, from traditional favorites to modern interpretations. Korean food is undeniably part of the best Asian food Amsterdam has to offer.
Kimchi Restaurant
Kimchi Restaurant is a long-standing favorite among Korean food lovers in Amsterdam. This family-run restaurant serves up authentic Korean dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Their kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) is a must-try, featuring a spicy and flavorful broth, tender pork, and perfectly fermented kimchi. Their bibimbap is another popular dish, featuring a bed of rice topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg. Kimchi Restaurant is a great option for a comforting and authentic Korean meal.
Gangnam BBQ
If you’re looking for a Korean BBQ experience, head to Gangnam BBQ. This restaurant offers a fun and interactive dining experience, where you grill your own meat at your table. Choose from a variety of marinated meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, and grill them to your liking. The restaurant provides a selection of banchan (side dishes), including kimchi, pickled vegetables, and seaweed salad. Korean BBQ is a great option for a group of friends or family looking for a fun and interactive meal.
Indonesian Flavors: A Symphony of Spices
Given the historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia, it’s no surprise that Amsterdam boasts a fantastic selection of Indonesian restaurants. Indonesian cuisine is characterized by its complex blend of spices, creating dishes that are both flavorful and aromatic. From the rich and savory rendang to the fragrant nasi goreng, Indonesian food offers a culinary adventure for the senses. Exploring the best Asian food Amsterdam offers is incomplete without tasting Indonesian cuisine.
Kantjil & de Tijger
Kantjil & de Tijger is one of Amsterdam’s most popular Indonesian restaurants, known for its authentic and flavorful rijsttafel. Rijsttafel is a Dutch word that translates to “rice table,” and it refers to a feast of Indonesian dishes served with rice. Kantjil & de Tijger offers a variety of rijsttafel options, showcasing a wide range of Indonesian flavors. Their rendang is a standout dish, featuring tender beef simmered in a rich and spicy coconut milk sauce. The atmosphere at Kantjil & de Tijger is lively and bustling, making it a great place for a group dinner.
Warung Spangmakandra
For a more casual Indonesian experience, try Warung Spangmakandra. This small and unassuming restaurant serves up authentic Indonesian dishes at affordable prices. Their nasi goreng (fried rice) is a must-try, featuring perfectly cooked rice, vegetables, and meat, all stir-fried in a flavorful sauce. Their gado-gado (Indonesian salad) is another popular dish, featuring a mix of vegetables, tofu, and tempeh, all tossed in a peanut sauce. Warung Spangmakandra is a great option for a quick and delicious Indonesian meal.
Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Complete
Amsterdam’s Asian food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, offering a culinary adventure for every palate. From the comforting warmth of ramen to the fragrant spices of Indonesian cuisine, Amsterdam’s Asian restaurants offer a truly global dining experience. So, venture out, explore these culinary treasures, and discover your own favorite best Asian food Amsterdam has to offer.
We encourage you to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and share your own favorite Asian food experiences in Amsterdam. The city’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, and there are always new and exciting restaurants to discover. So, embrace the adventure, tantalize your taste buds, and experience the magic of Asian cuisine in Amsterdam. It is a culinary hub for Asian food lovers, and a city that truly celebrates the diversity of its flavors!
