Practical information : Eating out Amsterdam
Timetable
In general, lunches are scheduled between 12:00 and 14:00 and dinners from 18:00. The kitchens close early, around 10:30 pm. Some popular addresses must be reserved in advance, while others, which do not accept reservations, will make you wait at the bar.
Budget & Tips
The restaurant sector has been experiencing constant inflation for the past ten years and it will be difficult to find a 3-course menu at less than 35 euros. Wine is more expensive than in France and the addition can therefore rise quickly. The good plan is to eat in the fish stands at lunchtime to lighten the note without crumpling the blade. It should be noted that bread is never served at the table except in gourmet restaurants. Tap water is excellent and only some obtuse restaurants will refuse to use it. Some restaurants but less and less accept only cash or debit cards.
What costs extra
The prices indicated are inclusive of VAT (Dutch VAT of 9 %). A priori, no gratuity obligation as in some countries but it is advisable to round off the addition when the plate and service have been adequate or to thank a friendly waiter. The French have the reputation of not being very general (here…).
To be avoided
The so-called “Nutella” brands, which offer insipid sweet products created in the heart of the Red Square in particular.
Kids
Children are welcome in most restaurants but you will see very few in the evening because Dutch people eat early at home. Booster chairs are often available and several restaurants offer a specially designed menu for children, often uninspired unfortunately.
Smokers
Smoking is not permitted in restaurants but is permitted on the terrace, unless otherwise stated
Tourist traps
Signs with reelers and scroll menu several meters long. Often restaurants near coffeeshops have menus concocted for “post-joined” cravings, so expensive, tasteless and fat.