Duende Dos, the best tapas in Amsterdam

It’s a gut feeling, like falling in love, or knowing when something just works. That’s how I felt the first time I walked into Duende Dos, the Spanish restaurant that—bold as it may sound—might just serve the best tapas in Amsterdam. Let’s get into it.

A Fine Line

If you’re at the right restaurant, the owners will always try to incorporate something of their culture into it to make you feel like you’re experiencing a fragment of their life. The decor, the music, souvenirs hanging from the walls—you name it. There’s a fine line between overdoing it and hitting it just right, and like my gut feeling, you’ll know it when you see it. The first time I went to Duende Dos, I was with a few of my Spanish friends; they had been there before and recommended it. How could I say no? I remember it like yesterday.

Sanctuary

A hot summer day, a light breeze in the air, and the sun reflecting in the canal. We walked in, and it felt like I was transported to another world. Colorful walls surrounded the large wooden tables. Spanish music was in the background while the laughter of customers filled the room, buzzing like a late-night family gathering. This place was a breakaway from daily life, where you didn’t have to think about work or rent, a place where you could relax and eat amazing food. If you’ve been in Amsterdam and know the chaos that comes with it, you’ll know that places like this are vital for our survival.

I did what any good friend does and let my friends order for the table. Words were said, nods exchanged, and before I knew it, there were beers. Nothing could’ve prepared me for what was about to bless our table. More than fifteen small white plates began to crowd the table, one by one, until there was no room left. Patatas Bravas, croquettas, chorizo cooked in cider, squid from the grill, Manchego cheese, just to name a few. Every plate was another deep dive into Spanish cuisine, and I was here for it.

First Impressions

At first glance, you wouldn’t think much of the dishes set before you, but once you start pricking your fork into them and tasting the flavors, you’ll quickly come to realize that what you’re eating was made with care, a passion to represent a home far away. The chorizo was soft and rich, packed with paprika and spices, oozing amber-colored oils with the press of a fork. The croquettas—filled with ham, cheese, or chorizo—were soft and creamy inside, with a perfectly crisp, golden shell. There was squid too, tender and juicy, glistening in olive oil and garlic, with just enough smoke to make it one of the best plates of the night. It was the kind of meal that makes you forget to check your phone—or even speak.

The Final Bite

As I said before, Duende Dos has become a sanctuary for me and my friends whenever we have the chance to get together and enjoy a meal. We can sit there for hours, ordering plate after plate until we can’t continue any longer, drinking as many beers as our livers allow. This is what happiness is to us, to me. Take someone, or someones, pick as many plates from the menu as you can fit on the table, and just let the experience take over. It’s loud, it’s messy, it’s perfect. I promise you won’t regret it.

Staring at Jacob, the best way to start your day.

If there’s one thing that connects us all, it’s food. Amsterdam’s bursting with global flavors — from South America to the Middle East — and for someone like me, who keeps vampire hours, brunch is salvation. The combination of breakfast and lunch, at an hour that’s still considered morning? Perfection. Amsterdam has plenty of options for when you wake up a bit later than you’d hoped but still want to convince yourself that you can make it to breakfast, and staring at Jacob is an absolute must for your list. Let’s get into it.

Best spot in town

Staring at Jacob is a brunch restaurant straying away from the chaos of the city center, while still feeling connected. Settled by the water, this place feels quaint, cozy, and the copious amounts of sunlight coming through the windows make it feel like it’s summer every day. Whether you’re alone and craving a quiet moment with a book or catching up with friends after a long week, this place is perfect for any occasion. It’s a popular spot for good reason, so booking ahead is smart — unless you don’t mind waiting a bit.

Now, the important part: the food. Originally, Staring at Jacob was known for its chicken and waffles. Thick, fluffy, and golden brown waffles are made in-house. A generous serving of succulent chicken thighs, breaded just enough to make it crispy without being heavy. And then, of course, the maple syrup cascading over the dish like sunlight—warm, sweet, and impossible to resist.

Switching It Up

While their chicken and waffles are iconic for good reason, it was a different dish that won my heart: their Eggs Benedict. I am a sucker for a good Eggs Bennie, and this one hits the spot every time. Sourdough toasted to perfection, with just a light crunch. Smoked salmon that freshens up the whole dish (trust me, you’ll need it with what’s to come), and smoked bacon for that perfect level of saltiness to complement the fish. The most important part: the poached egg. Thick, glossy, and creamy on the inside, oozing with a cut of your knife, cascading over the salmon like nobody’s watching. There isn’t anything like a good poached egg. To finish, a slathering of creamy hollandaise to coat that delicious sandwich you have in front of you.

A Parting Gift

We’re not done yet. I have one last thing to get you excited. I don’t mind my coffee sweet, and when I tell you they have a maple syrup iced latté, it is a thing made of dreams. The toasted notes of the coffee are balanced out by the silky sweetness of the syrup, brought together by the milk. It’s truly a beautiful thing.

If I haven’t convinced you that Staring at Jacob should be your next stop, which I doubt, then perhaps it’s just an excuse for you to go and see for yourself. I have only touched on two items on their menu, but there is so much more that even I should go back for. For example, their Monkey Business, banana bread French toast, sounds like heaven on a rustic plate.

The Final Bite

I don’t often discuss breakfast or brunch spots in Amsterdam, simply because I’m not awake yet by that time to fully enjoy them. This is where you can learn from my mistakes and fully indulge in the world of Amsterdam’s early-day experience. Start your day properly, sit down a bit longer than you’d used to. Order that second coffee, bring a book, enjoy yourself, no need to rush.

Ranchi, old-school meets Amsterdam

We all know Japan gave us ramen, mochi, and fluffy pancakes—but did you know they’ve also mastered the art of the sandwich? I didn’t either, until I stumbled upon Ranchi in Amsterdam. Let’s talk about it.

A Little Red Ribbon

You'll find Ranchi, a Japanese sandwich shop, tucked away in the middle of the Albert Cuyp Street. I wasn’t sure what to imagine when it came to sandwiches from Japan, but when I ordered the two most tempting items on the menu, it became clear pretty quickly that I was in for a treat. One sandwich, sliced into three, neatly packed in a box, and wrapped with a red ribbon. It was deceivingly simple, but it made for a wonderful surprise. Open the box, and it’s heaven: Thick, juicy slices of Katsu pork glistening in their juices. Fresh and crunchy slaw to balance out the fat, and the soft bread that feels like a pillow when you bite into it. It was exactly what I needed on a cold winter’s day here in Amsterdam. The first time, I stuck with pork. The second time, I gave in to curiosity. A Japanese egg salad sandwich didn’t exactly scream excitement, but it blew me away. It was herbaceous, silky, light... and unforgettable. I could’ve eaten ten.

Breaking the Mold

De Pijp is home to some of the best food in Amsterdam, so it’s no surprise that prices can be steep. Most of my ‘must-try’ tags on Google Maps are clustered here—there’s something for every craving. But Ranchi breaks the mold, offering some of the best bites for under ten euros. It was so good, I went back in less than three hours with my friends just to eat there again.

The Final Bite

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful bite you’ll crave again and again, Ranchi is your next must-try. Friendly staff, cozy vibes, and a view of the bustling market—what more could you want?

Bagelboy, the best bagel in town?

I know the title might spark some controversy, but let’s be honest—when done right, a bagel is a borderline spiritual experience. It should be perfectly crispy on the outside, topped with seeds, herbs, or even cheese. Then, once you open that bad boy, you get the most fluffy interior, steaming after the escape from the oven. If you’ve found the right spot (and I think I have), it is truly an experience that’ll change your life forever. Bagelboy might’ve cracked the code on this one. Let’s get into it.

New and Improved

Bagels these days are no longer just about the bread. We’ve moved away from the simple cream cheese bagel, and we’ve jumped into the era where bagels are treated like proper sandwiches—toppings galore. While new spots try to impress the masses by creating eccentric and crazy bagels that’ll make you unhinge your jaw due to their size, some have tried to keep the classics alive while adding minor twists that make them feel new. Bagelboy is one of these underdogs. They’ve kept the iconic deli style, but their bagels are a fresh take, elevating the classics we know and love. The space itself is small and laid-back, with the kind of hustle that tells you they know what they’re doing. Looking for a classic B.E.C. (Bacon, Egg, and Cheese), but with a bit of avocado and crispy chili oil? Maybe the next-level bagel with lox and cream cheese—served on a brioche, curled into a bagel and baked to perfection (yes, you heard that right)—is more your style? They have it all.

The Early Bird Catches the Worm

My advice? Go early. I’ve gone to Bagelboy twice on the Albert Cuypstraat around 1 or 2 in the afternoon, and both times they were already running out of most of the bagel varieties. If you want to have access to everything they have to offer, you’ll have to be prepared to stand outside as soon as those doors open, or slightly after. We all know that the best time to visit a bakery is early in the morning when the bread is just out of the oven. Bagelboy is no exception. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

The Final Bite

Simply put, this Bagelboy is a must-try for your next lunch or pick-me-up. There’s nothing quite like a fresh and warm bagel, stacked high with delicious toppings, and this bagel shop delivers on every level. Skip breakfast, go early, and thank me later.

Ramen kingdom, a touch of Japan

When you think of ramen, your first thought is probably tonkatsu. A bowl that celebrates pork in all its glory, whether it’s in the soup or the braised pork stacked on top. It’ll stick to your ribs, make you all warm inside, and fill you up for the rest of the day. Ramen Kingdom has successfully taken the ramen experience from Japan and put it into a small shop close to the central station. Let’s get into it.

Need for speed

In Europe, we’ve gotten used to a different kind of ramen culture than the one that started in Japan a long time ago. Here in the West, we take our time eating ramen, talking to our friends, watching our shows, or reading our books. Ramen has a high price tag sometimes, and we want to savor every sip. However, in Japan, it’s not the same deal. Ramen, like fries or Haring are for us in Amsterdam, is a quick meal in between a busy schedule. You walk in, sit down, order, eat, pay, and leave, all within fifteen minutes. You really can’t beat that level of efficiency while maintaining that level of quality. Ramen kingdom is a nudge to that culture. Sure, on a good day, you’ll stand in line for up to thirty minutes. But once you’re in, you’ll be back out within half the time you spent waiting, and it’ll be the best fifteen minutes of your life.

Like a hug

The ramen you’ll eat here is a classic tonkatsu pork ramen. A thick and creamy pork broth, the result of hours and hours of boiling and stewing. Thick noodles with a slight chew to absorb all that delicious flavor. And finally, the braised pork. My god the pork. It is meaty and soft, and the grill just adds a hint of fire to all of that goodness. Once it hits your tastebuds, it’ll just melt away. Combined, it is an unforgettable bowl of ramen, and you’ll never want it any other way.

The final bite

Ramen is one of those dishes that comes in so many different styles and types. The broth, the noodles, the toppings, everyone does it differently. I could write an entire blog just about the differences in ramen and which ones are my favorite, but I’d neglect all the other amazing food in this city. For me, Ramen Kingdom simply blew me away with the level of quality and the experience they bring to the table. I was transported back to my short trip in Tokyo, eating ramen with the locals and discovering what a classic bowl of ramen is like.

Like most things in Amsterdam, sometimes the best meals come with a higher price tag. Ramen Kingdom is one of them. But, as you’ll find with some of my other articles, this one is worth the money, a hundred times over. Ramen Kingdom is the real deal. You get a fantastic bowl of ramen with quality ingredients, a hearty broth that’ll fill you with joy, and the porkiest pork you’ll ever taste in your life.

Salmuera, the pride of Argentina?

‘‘The pride of Argentina’’, that’s a hefty title. Not only is an entire country standing on your shoulders expecting you to represent them and their cuisine, but you also have to convince every person walking through your doors that it’s true. Juicy steaks, fresh ingredients, and flavors that’ll blow your socks straight off, that’s what I think of when I think of Argentinian cuisine. I had the pleasure of eating at Salmuera recently, and based on first impressions, here’s my review.

Taste with your eyes

From the get-go, this spot only got good reviews from my friends. Good atmosphere, friendly staff, and the food was incredible. It’s safe to say that I had high hopes for this dinner. Their Instagram feed definitely contributed to the excitement. Their photographer needs a significant raise. But, let’s get back to the food.

As soon as we walked in, we saw the grill master lining up steaks of all kinds and sizes, one juicier than the next. The smells coming from that grill, divine. Rib-eyes glistening in their own juices, crossed with those iconic grill marks and ready to be devoured. I was salivating, and I hadn’t even taken two steps into the restaurant yet.

A bit of everything

The menu was impressive. It wasn’t overflowing with options, but enough to make you rethink your choices a couple of times to make sure you picked the right dish. Ceviches, tostadas, steaks, fish, sides, they had it all. There even was a separate menu for their dry-aged steaks. We took full advantage. Spiced slow-cooked lamb tostadas with mint chimichuri, a seabass ceviche to start, with a Paper Plane to sip on.

Right out of the gate, these two alone we’re killer. The slow-cooked lamb was juicy and succulent, bursting with flavor. The crunch of the tostada adding some texture and the chimichurri balancing out the flavors. It could’ve been a main course and we would’ve been happy.

Next up, the ceviche. I’ll admit, my experience with ceviches and dishes like these has been limited. This was my first ceviche and I didn’t know what to expect. It was wonderful. The seabass was deliciously meaty, with the amarillo giving it a zing and some spice, bringing out the flavor of the fish. A pretty good start i’d say.

The piece the resistance

Not long after we got through our starters, our small plates were replaced with bigger ones, and more food for us to dive into. five hour roasted suckling pig, pimientos with creme fraiche, and their ‘‘pride of Argentina’’ rib-eye steak. Just like the cartoons, our eyes grew in size and we simply weren’t sure where to start. Divide and conquer seemed like the best way forward.

Now, here is where my opinion might change slightly. I’ve been giving the food high praises so far, well-deserved. Our main courses were also quite amazing. The suckling pig was exactly that, shredded pork with crackling on top, and that was all it had to be. It was the porkiest pork i’ve ever had in my life. Juicy, meaty, and that salty crackling was the perfect compliment to every bite. The pimientos were sweet and juicy, dressed in a chili oil, with that tangy creme fraiche dotted on top, delicious.

Now, for the steak. We weren’t too impressed. We’ve both had a good amount of steaks in our lives, and for a steak that was bequeathed the title of ‘‘the pride of Argentina’’, we were expecting something spectacular. Granted it was cooked to perfection, it didn’t wow us as much the other dishes did. We were left wanting… more. But hey, it made us want to come back and try the other dishes, so perhaps it was a blessing in disguise.

The final bite

Final conclusion? Salmuera is an amazing Argentinian steakhouse that’s worth adding to your list, but maybe not for the reasons they intended. We came for steaks, and left enjoying everything else instead. Even though the restaurant is quite big, it still felt cozy and warm. Salmuera is best enjoyed with friends, picking as many dishes as you desire and sharing until you and your belly are happy.

Caldi E Freddi, the best sandwich for under a tenner.

If you’ve ever walked around the beautiful streets of Amsterdam, you’ve probably already noticed the copious amounts of Italian spots scattered across the city: pizzas, pasta, and everything in between. Don’t get me wrong, some of these places are amazing and I’d highly recommend trying a couple. But, the real underdog here, the unsung heroes of the Italian food scene of Amsterdam, are the Italian delis.

painting a picture

Stick with me here. Imagine a ciabatta, warm and fresh out of the oven—the crust crackling under the pressure of your fingers. A soft pillowy interior opens up with the slice of a knife, ready to become the foundation of an epic sandwich. Now for the toppings, the infrastructure of greatness. Italian cold cuts, fresh vegetables, creamy cheeses, and sauces that’ll make you giddy after the first bite. Have I piqued your curiosity? Are you intrigued? Good, let’s get into it!

If you’re a foodie or simply looking for a good lunch, this is the spot for you. Finding that perfect sandwich shop is like finding the perfect song; once you’ve found it, it’ll stick with you forever. You look forward to that sandwich you always order, you get on a first-name basis with the staff, and it becomes part of your routine. If you dive deeper into this guide, you’ll find a few more Italian delis in Amsterdam that are worth visiting, but this one is perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Italian delis are the heart and soul of authentic Italian bites in Amsterdam. But even among these, Caldi E Freddi, just minutes away from the central station, stands out for its incredible and affordable menu.

Under a tenner

Caldi E Freddi is a little spot serving sandwiches, calzones, takeaway meals, and desserts, all under ten euros. You should be able to find the deli simply by seeing the long line outside waiting for their turn to order. You’ll hear the Italians in the back, yelling orders and fucking around. As soon you walk in, you’re met with a display of all the cold cuts and cheeses lying in wait, ready-made dishes and desserts neatly packed on the other side. Trolleys of fresh bread that you can’t help but stare at, and the sandwiches being made across. You’ll fall in love with the place before you’ve even tried the food.

The best part? It’s affordable. You can get away with getting a sandwich for less than six euros, which is rare in Amsterdam. And this isn’t just a plain sandwich. No, a sandwich from Caldi E Freddi is filled to the brim, bursting with flavor, and will fill you up for the rest of the afternoon. It’s all fresh, made to order, and it’s made with that Italian love that’s simply unparalleled.

The Final bite

Visit the shop, pick a sandwich, be adventurous, get an espresso, and order a tiramisu to finish. Treat yourself! I can guarantee that once you do, you’ll go back again and again.

Foodhallen, Amsterdam’s food Mecca

Foodhallen might just be Amsterdam’s food Mecca—and after nearly ten years of visits, i’ll die on that hill. More than fifteen different types of food ranging from burgers to falafel, fish to pastries, good vibes, and music. What more could you ask for? That was exactly what I thought when I first came here, and after almost a decade, it’s still one of my favorite places in the city, if not on Earth. I will give you some guidance on this abandoned tram station turned food spot and my recommendations that’ll guarantee an amazing experience. Let’s get into it.

The run-down

First things first, let me tell you what Foodhallen actually is. Besides what you can guess from the name of the place, it is somewhat of a hall full of food. More specifically, Foodhallen used to be an old tram station that decommissioned a long time ago. Since then it’s been picked up and renovated into a permanent communal space for creatives and food trucks. Besides Foodhallen, you’ll also find a cinema, café, bookstore, and bike rental. Creativity flows through every crevice of this place, and it’s awesome. But I digress. Let’s get back to the food, the best part. More than fifteen food trucks will be nestled inside a huge indoor quart yard, with a bar in the middle, a beer garden, and a wine bar to quench your thirst. You can find almost anything here; pulled pork, pastries, oysters, dim sum, it’s all there. All you have to do is pick your poison and go for it.

You might get overwhelmed by all the choices, and that’s fair enough, everything looks incredible. You’ll probably spend the first ten minutes walking around debating with yourself on what to eat first. Here are some of my go-to options that I can’t get enough of every time, and I know you will love them.

The Butcher

First up, The Butcher. You might think ‘‘what? burgers? why would I go for a burger here??’’. I get it, it’s the obvious option, but hear me out. This isn’t your everyday ordinary burger. Juicy and thick beef patties, a fresh bun that just gives in to the weight of your fingers, and toppings that’ll have you salivating from the moment they hit your tastebuds. The best part? Just like all the spots in the Hallen, it’s an open kitchen. You’ll see the burgers sizzling on the grill, fries crisping up in the hot oil, and the careful construction of your next meal. If the smells don’t convince you, the view will.

The Rough Kitchen

Sticking with the carnivore theme, the rough kitchen is an absolute must when visiting Foodhallen. Pulled pork that just melts in your mouth, pork belly that’ll blow your mind, and chicken that falls off the bone. My first memory of coming to Foodhallen was with my mom. I was only ten when I came here for the first time. After walking around for a couple of minutes, I knew that a pulled pork sandwich was all I wanted. A crisp ciabatta bun, pulled pork piled high, and to top it all off, a refreshing coleslaw propped on top. It was a bite of heaven. To this day, a bite from that sandwich brings me back to that memory, and I can’t leave without having one.

Taqueria Lima

If you’ve read my blog before, you know how much I love a good taco. It’s a little pocket of goodness, and this taqueria delivers in every way. I’d love to recommend a specific item from their menu, but really, it’s their sharing platter you should be aiming for. Home-made tortillas, sauces and marinades made in-house, and meats that just absorb the flavors like nothing I’ve ever seen.

Mer Du Nord

Last but not least, we divvy away from the meats and move over to fish. Mer Du Nord does a lot, but what you should be looking for is their little slider-sized sandwiches. These things are to die for. They use bao buns, which means that the bread has been steamed instead of baked, causing it to become fluffy and light. Their best version is the codfish. A nugget of battered codfish on a bed of seaweed, glazed with soy and put between that beautiful bread. The fish is crispy and flaky. The seaweed adds a hit of salty freshness, with the soy adding an umami bomb to finish. You really can’t go wrong here.

The Final Bite

These are just a few of the many you’ll find at Foodhallen. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a die-hard carnivore, there is something for everyone. Having praised this food spot in the last 500 words, I want to remind you that this place is quite pricey. Most food here is above the average price you’d pay for a meal, so be prepared to spend some cash. But, while Foodhallen leans toward the pricier side, the quality, creativity, and variety make it all worthwhile. Because of this, I’d highly recommend coming here with a group of friends. Divide and conquer, meet at a table, and try as many different stalls as you can. Just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it’s not worth a try, right?

Zero Zero, Italian at its best.

If you’ve been in Amsterdam for a while or are taking your first stroll, you’ll notice that this place is crawling with restaurants from every corner of the world. From Chinese to Irish, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. As a foodie, this is like heaven to me. But throughout most of 2024, I found myself indulging in Italian deli sandwiches. I get it, Italian is the cliché food option in any city across the world. Pizzas, pastas, wine. But hear me out. The Italian Deli is a different beast entirely, and even though there are a few around, I believe that this might be the best one. Let’s get into it.

Glorious Simplicity

Italian is known for one thing; simplicity. The best Italian dishes are usually created from only a handful of ingredients, and it is delicious. These sandwiches are no different. Focaccia made in-house that cracks and crunches under the weight of your fingers with the scent of rosemary and olive oil hovering around. Fresh burrata that oozes over your sandwich and makes it go from amazing to legendary. Layers upon layers of cold cuts provide an essential meatiness you simply can’t do without. And finally, to brighten it all up, veggies, fresh and pickled, adding all the essential sour and salty awesomeness. But simplicity and quality come at a price, and that’s where some people might pause

Size matters, sometimes

Some might feel that the price doesn’t match the value—and that’s a fair concern. Amsterdam is an expensive city, and it’s easy to overspend on food that doesn’t deliver. But in my experience, Zero Zero is worth every euro. This Italian deli on the Nieuwe Spiegelstraat has been taking the city by storm with its play on the Italian style mixed with a fresh minimalistic aesthetic, and I’m here for it. Not only does everything taste as amazing as it looks, but the sandwiches are huge, and one will be enough to fill you up for the afternoon.

Having said that, for me, Zero Zero is not a spot I’d frequent for a quick lunch. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to make it my usual spot, but as a waiter paying more than half my salary in rent, I simply can’t afford a sixteen-euro sandwich every day or a couple of times a week. If I’m going to spend that kind of money on one sandwich, it better be good, and it better make me feel all the things I want a sandwich to make me feel.

The Final Bite

Do I think Zero Zero has the chops to be one of, if not the best sandwiches in Amsterdam? Absolutely. Flavor and quality are their priority, and they show in every part of their process. From the baking of the bread to the carefully placing of the grilled peppers. There is something for everyone and you’ll most likely want to come back for more. Is it the cheapest option? No. If budget is an obstacle, there are tons of budget-friendly options on this list that’ll satisfy your craving for a good sandwich. But, having said that, paying for quality is something we should all be doing once in a while, right?