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?