Whether you’re craving a rich fondue, a classic onion soup, or a glass of perfectly paired Merlot, these eight restaurants capture the essence of French dining. With romantic canalside terraces and hidden gems in vibrant neighborhoods, here’s your guide to savoring French flavors in Amsterdam. Bon appétit!
Restaurant De Belhamel
Daily 12–4 Pm, 5:30–10 Pm | Brouwersgracht 60
De Belhamel is a dreamy canal-side dining spot at the junction of Brouwersgracht and Herengracht in central Amsterdam. Grab a terrace seat in the summer for a canal view while enjoying French classics. Inside, the Art Nouveau décor meets Parisian romance, setting the perfect tone for an elegant dining experience. Opt for the Menu du Chef with 4 or 5 courses or go à la carte with French favorites like escargots, onion soup, and crème brûlée.
Cafe Garçon
Daily 12–10 PM, extended hours Thu until 12 AM, and Fri–Sat until 1 AM | Johannes Verhulststraat 105
Now located in the heart of De Pijp, Café Garçon brings a cozy French charm to Amsterdam with its simple yet top-quality menu. Whether you choose to dine at a table or the bar, the experience is sure to impress. From the same owners as Tanay, Cantine de Caron, and Petit Caron, Café Garçon continues their tradition of delivering exceptional French dining, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed taste of France in the city. A bientôt!
Pastis
Daily 5 PM–1 AM, weekends from 4PM | Eerste Constantijn Huygensstraat 15
The French restaurant Pastis, located in Amsterdam’s Old West, feels like stepping into the cozy living room of a charming French village. The menu highlights classic French flavors, with standout dishes like beef tartare and homemade pâtés that are not to be missed. They offer two dinner shifts, so if you opt for the early one, keep in mind you’ll need to leave before the later crowd arrives. Perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Pastis brings a slice of France to Amsterdam.
Arles
Daily 6 PM–12 AM | Govert Flinckstraat 251
Hidden on a quiet street in the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood, Arles is a modern French bistro with all the charm you could ask for. Up front, it’s all about cozy vibes with candles and smooth jazz. Head to the back, and you’ll find a tiny backyard—closed in winter as a patio and open-air terrace in summer. The French chef brings regional flavors to life with creative, modern twists on monthly set menus. Add a wine pairing for the full experience.
L’ Entrecôte et les Dames
Daily 12–3 PM, 5:30–10 PM | Van Baerlestraat 47-49
Located in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter (Museumplein), L’Entrecôte et les Dames is a charming French restaurant with a Parisian bistro ambiance, ideal for both romantic dinners and gatherings with friends. They are known for offering a fixed-price menu starring their signature entrecôte steak, served with a secret herb sauce and unlimited crispy fries – yes, they really do refill the fries! Not a steak lover? Their buttery lemon sole is just as delightful. Walk-ins are welcome, with reservations only for groups of seven or more.
Clos
Open Tue–Thu 5–11 PM (Thu until 12 AM), Fri–Sat 3 PM–1 AM, Sun 3–10 PM | Beukenplein 50
Clos, a charming wine and food bar in Amsterdam, specializes in wines from small wineries and family-run businesses, adding a personal and local touch. The beautiful bar, reminiscent of a French bistro and surrounded by shelves of carefully selected bottles, creates the perfect setting for thoughtfully prepared dishes paired with wines that complement them perfectly. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed drink or a quiet evening, Clos provides a warm and delightful experience.
Chez Fabrice
Daily 4:30–9:30 PM, extended hours Fri–Sat until 12 AM | Amstel 133
You can find Chez Fabrice, a charming spot specializing in French cuisine, in Amsterdam East by the Amstel. The warm and inviting interior sets the tone for a relaxed evening, making it an ideal dinner destination, especially if you’re planning to visit the nearby Carré Theater afterward. Their 2- and 3-course menus feature authentic French cuisine, with dishes that bring classic flavors to life. For a taste of France in Amsterdam, Chez Fabrice is a wonderful choice for a lovely night out.
Bistrot des Alpes
Tue to Sat from 5:30 PM until 12 PM (kitchen until 9:30 PM) | Utrechtsedwarsstraat 141
Dreaming of a cozy mountain escape? Bistrot des Alpes transports you straight to the charming mountains of the French Alps. With its rustic chalet-inspired decor and warm ambiance, this gem stands out as one of Amsterdam’s most authentic French dining experiences. The menu offers all the cheesy classics like fondue and raclette, perfectly paired with a glass of French red from their curated wine list. Whether it’s a romantic date or a fun night with friends, it’s like a mini ski holiday without leaving the city.
Even More Insider Tips
As locals, we’re excited to share our best tips with you—after all, who better to ask? You might also enjoy reading:
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