The Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in the Netherlands: A Culinary Journey

The Netherlands has undergone a massive culinary transformation over the last decade. Moving far
the new york deli beyond its reputation for hearty stews and fried snacks, the Dutch food scene is now a sophisticated tapestry of Michelin-starred innovation, sustainable “farm-to-fork” concepts, and vibrant international flavors. Whether you are wandering the canals of Amsterdam or exploring the modern skyline of Rotterdam, world-class dining awaits.

۱٫ De Librije (Zwolle) – The Pinnacle of Dutch Gastronomy

For those seeking the absolute best, De Librije is a pilgrimage site. Holding three Michelin stars, Chef Jonnie Boer and his wife Thérèse have created a sensory masterpiece inside a former 18th-century prison. The menu is a love letter to the local terroir, focusing on ingredients sourced from the nearby polders and waters. Expect avant-garde techniques applied to humble ingredients like river trout or fermented vegetables, paired with one of the finest wine collections in Europe.

۲٫ Rijks (Amsterdam) – Art on a Plate

Located in the wing of the iconic Rijksmuseum, Rijks reflects the same dedication to Dutch heritage as the masterpieces hanging next door. Chef Joris Bijdendijk champions “Lowlands Cuisine,” focusing on products grown on Dutch soil. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet accessible, making it the perfect spot for a high-end lunch or a refined dinner featuring North Sea fish and artisanal local cheeses.

۳٫ FG Restaurant (Rotterdam) – The Experimental Edge

Rotterdam is the country’s playground for modern architecture and food. FG Restaurant, led by Francois Geurds, is a two-starred establishment that feels like a laboratory of flavor. Geurds is famous for his obsession with taste—he even has his own flavor lab. The dining experience here is theatrical and surprising, often blending Caribbean influences with classic French foundations.

۴٫ De Kas (Amsterdam) – From Greenhouse to Table

Housed in a breathtaking 1920s glass greenhouse, De Kas is a pioneer in the organic dining movement. They grow their own vegetables and herbs in the city and at their farm in Beemster. The menu changes daily based on the harvest, ensuring that what you eat was likely picked only hours before. It is the ultimate destination for those who value freshness and sustainability.

۵٫ Parkheuvel (Rotterdam) – Luxury with a View

Perched in a beautiful park with views of the Maas River, Parkheuvel was the first restaurant in the Netherlands to receive three Michelin stars (currently holding two). It offers a classic, opulent dining experience. Chef Erik van Loo is a master of sauces and balances, making this the go-to spot for a romantic, high-stakes evening.

The Netherlands proves that Dutch cuisine is no longer a hidden gem—it is a global contender. From the experimental kitchens of Rotterdam to the vegetable-forward greenhouses of Amsterdam, the country offers a diverse palette for every food lover.