TASTE: The 10 best terraces in Amsterdam right now
It’s no secret Amsterdam is all about that al fresco life. If the obsession with cycling and tulips didn’t give it away, the thousands of restaurants and cafes that sprawl across its streets definitely did. They represent gezelligheid in its purest form — that untranslatable Dutch feeling of happiness in the company of others.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, foodie, or simply in search of the perfect Instagram shot, there’s simply nowhere better to experience Amsterdam in all its glory than its terraces. And lucky for you, we’ve rounded up its best waterfront, park, garden and rooftop terraces into one easy list.
REM Eiland
Imagine if a Bond villain’s lair and a chic bistro had a lovechild – that’s REM Eiland. What was once a pirate radio station now broadcasts flavours instead of frequencies, 22 meters above the IJ river. But don’t let the view distract you from the plate – REM Eiland’s kitchen conjures up comfort food with a gourmet twist. It’s a place where you can feel the salt spray on your face as you fork up a bite of perfectly seared sea bass. Who knew rebellion could taste this good?
Bam Boa
Mastering the art of hygge, Bam Boa is your go-to spot for all-things rattan, bamboo and wicker. An upscale beach house that serves snacks, sangria and a whole lot of sun from its waterfront terrace, it’s pretty much everything you could wish for in the Venice of the North. Its small plates and seasonal flavours are a welcome breath of fresh air in the otherwise suited-and-booted district of Zuidas.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ
What could be more quintessentially Dutch than enjoying a beer in the shadow of a windmill? Sprawled beneath De Gooyer (Amsterdam’s tallest wooden sky-tickler), the terrace at Brouwerij ‘t IJ offers a beer experience that’s both grounded in tradition and dizzyingly modern. Downing classic IPAs or experimental brews, the terrace always has a good vibe, courtesy of the beer buffs and curious sippers who frequent its communal tables. Definitely one for the ’gram.
De Koffieschenkerij
Hidden within the walls of Amsterdam’s oldest building, this charming café, nestled in the shadow of the Oude Kerk, feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the nearby Red Light District. Cake, croissants and organic coffee are served on the leafy-green terrace daily, with the fresh lemonade, made from the on-site quince tree, a particular highlight for anyone visiting post-summer.
Secret Garden
If De Koffieschenkerij is hiding in plain sight, then Secret Garden is playing hard to get – and trust us, the chase is worth it. Layered with climbing vines and leopard-print chairs, its garden terrace serves up a Peruvian-Japanese fusion menu that’s simply drool-worthy. The Wagyu Fried Rice, Pineapple Créme Brulee and Rose Martinis really steal the show here.
Pllek
Commandeering an abandoned dock, Pllek is where Amsterdam’s industrial past meets its eco-conscious future. The kitchen serves up sustainable delights that would make Mother Nature herself nod in approval, with 75% of the menu vegetarian (and 25% of that vegan). Honest-to-goodness sand is scattered across its waterfront terrace, where you can salute the sun in a sunrise yoga session or simply watch the IJ river traffic glide on by.
Waterkant
Proof that paradise can sprout in the most peculiar places, the good vibes of Waterkant’s sun-kissed terrace and colourful café stick with you long after the night’s drawn to a close. Built into the ground floor of a huge multi-storey car park, its vibrant murals and twinkling lights set the scene for a menu that dances between Dutch snacks and Surinamese specialities. Think Parbo beer, spit-roasted chicken, gadi gado, chicken roti rolls and the like.
De Ysbreeker
A grande dame of Amsterdam’s al fresco scene, De Ysbreeker’s terrace has been a favourite sunning spot for locals since the early 18th century. Named after the icebreaker ships that once docked nearby, it’s now a hot spot for locals to break the ice over breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. Go for the rich history and Amstel River views; stay for the steak tartare and oh-so-cosy armchairs.
Hannekes Boom
If Amsterdam had a spirit animal, it would be Hannekes Boom. A cult classic among locals, this wooden shack of a bar, with its sprawling waterfront terrace, embodies the city’s laid-back, anything-goes attitude. It’s a delightful hodgepodge of colourful chairs, hammocks, and even a small beach area that comes alive when the mercury rises. And if you’re so inclined to travel the city by water, there’s even somewhere to moor your boat for the day.
A’DAM Lookout
The views? Stunning. The vibes? Impeccable. The venue? Kitted out with Europe’s highest swing. A’DAM Lookout isn’t for the faint of heart, but it is THE go-to rooftop terrace for drinks with a view. Serving bitterballen by day and Norwegian lobster by night, this sky-high playground delivers just about everything you could want when checking out Amsterdam’s skyline. Catch DJ sets Friday to Sunday, see the city like never before in VR, or give everyone back home FOMO with a 100-meter-high selfie.
