The tickets are secured, overstuffed suitcases are packed, and the perfect getaway to Amsterdam awaits. The only thing missing: discovering where to eat. No matter how many times one might visit this beautiful city, there will always be new restaurants to indulge in and menus to explore.

Amsterdam is well known for their winding canals and bountiful bikes. However, the classic cuisine is another stand-out experience that the city offers. These five fine dining options in Amsterdam are perfect for anybody searching for a new flavor of the city or a traditional tasteful meal.

The Duchess

Despite its recent opening in 2015, The Duchess has fine dining in Amsterdam down to a tea. The restaurant is located in the former KAS Bank in W Hotel Amsterdam. Tall, grand ceilings and intricate lighting fixtures are the first details guests will notice upon entry. When it comes to creating dishes, many of their flavors are inspired from the south of France and Italy, ultimately creating a Nouveau-Niçoise style cuisine. For lunch, options such as linguine cacio e pepe and salt baked whole sea bass are just a few of the refined flavors that are offered. Grilled asparagus with aged balsamic and caviar beluga, along with various Mediterranean produce, grace the dinner menu. The Duchess also offers afternoon tea. This experience includes a blend of freshly brewed teas and decadent pastries inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Sweets such as macaroons, truffles, éclairs and more contribute to the extravagant display.

The White Room

Considered one of the oldest restaurants in Amsterdam, The White Room was derived from the historic name ‘De Witte Zaal’ when the space opened in 1885. Ornate gold and cream paneling that surrounds the dining room radiates a sense of Austrian royalty.  Jacob Jan Boerma is the signature chef, who has earned three Michelin stars. With ingredients sourced from all across the Netherlands, the menu is composed of fresh and local products. Two tasting menu options, Gold and Green, present refined and fresh flavors suited for any guest. An À La Carte menu is also offered on Wednesday and Thursdays, which consists of langoustine, cod, and roe deer. For dessert, both sweet options and selections of cheeses are offered. Many of The White Room’s organic wines tell guests a story as the sommelier personally advises wine and food pairing arrangements.

Restaurant Adam 

Located in Overtoom, Restaurant Adam is owned and operated by head chef, Arne Russia. With warm tones and exposed brick walls, the dining space is comfortable, yet sophisticated. The restaurant is open for dinner Wednesday-Saturday and offers a monthly changing menu with four, five, or six course options. Arne Russian prides Restaurant Adam on their surprise menu which is carefully curated to fit the current season. Although the menu is purposefully crafted to be a surprise, guests can be assured that their dishes consist of fresh ingredients, including wild caught fish and ingredients from small producers. Along with the ever changing surprise menu, cheese platters and wine tasting are another way for guests to experience all that Restaurant Adam has to offer.

Yamazato 

For a traditional Japanese dining experience, Yamazato presents authentic Japanese fine dining cuisine. Yamazato was the first traditional Japanese restaurant in Europe to earn a Michelin Star. Over 50 specialities from the Kaiseki royal kitchen are served within a relaxing, refreshing atmosphere. Masanori Tomikawa is the head chef, who creates a menu focused on seasonal and traditional Japanese ingredients. One stand out feature of this restaurant are the balanced dishes. From taste, to texture, to overall appearance, each meal is plated and formed into a minimalistic style. Classic creations include yakimono (grilled sea bass and turnip), shiizakana (chargrilled Japanese Wagyu steak) and various vegetarian options. The minimalist style and adjacent Japanese garden create a relaxing and peaceful ambiance.

Aan de Poel Restaurant 

Aan de Poel Restaurant opened its doors in 2008, with chef Stefan van Sprang currently operating the restaurant. The changing menu inspired by classic French cuisine is what the restaurant is most noted for. Aan de Poel specials include stir-fried lobster and oven roasted beef stew among many other options.  The extensive wine selection boasting over 600 options enhances the overall dining experience at Aan de Poel. Private dining events are also available for parties with up to 14 guests. This exclusive dining space is located in the restaurant’s wine room.  Complete with large windows that open up to the sprawling views of the De Poel lake, Aan de Poel presents a chic and welcoming environment.

No matter one’s dining preferences, Amsterdam boasts a wide array of luxury, five-star dining selections. Whether guests opt for French, Japanese or locally inspired dishes, these restaurants provide a fine dining experience like no other. From the first course to the final satisfying bite, luxury fills your tastebuds.