Amsterdam’s Chinatown, the oldest “Chinatown” in continental Europe, is actually a multicultural pastiche of East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Europe. And from its earliest days, it has been a place for authentic meals from all of its representative countries. But where to start? Here are our tried and true picks for the best restaurants in Zeedijk, Chinatown’s restaurant row.
01
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Nam Kee
Direction
Zeedijk 111-113, 1012 AV Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 624 3470
Web
Visit the website
The 2002 film adaptation of the Dutch bestseller Oysters in Nam Kee’s catapulted this Chinese restaurant’s most famous dish to modest international stardom. But it’s not just the steamed oysters in black bean sauce that wows diners – an overall excellent menu has earned Nam Kee the title of best Chinese restaurant in Amsterdam.
Seawall 111-113 (snack bar)
Geldersekade 117 (restaurant)
02
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Thai bird
Direction
Zeedijk 72-74, 1012 BA Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 620 1442
Web
Visit the website
Coconut milk curries with bold spices are the house specialty at Thai Bird, which is always named one of the best Thai joints in Amsterdam. Bird’s snack bar serves up quick but heartwarming meals for diners on the go, while their sit-down restaurant across the street offers a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere amidst its Thai decor.
Seawall 72-74 (restaurant)
Zeedijk 77 (snack bar)
03
of 05
Late
Direction
Zeedijk 143, 1012 AW Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 625 7485
Web
Visit the website
The cozy retro-themed cafe Latei deserves an honorable mention for the Indian curries that it serves at rock-bottom prices Thursday through Saturday; Top it off with a slice of their heavenly appeltaart (apple pie) for dessert.
Seawall 143
04
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welcome
Direction
Geldersekade 56, 1012 BK Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Seafood specialist Welcome, one of the few lovely Vietnamese restaurants in the Netherlands, lives up to Vietnam’s reputation for vibrant citrus flavors. Acclaimed for its extensive menu, attentive service, and excellent pho , the noodle soup that is the national dish of Vietnam. Welcome has established itself as a reliable favorite in Zeedijk.
Seawall 56
05
of 05
Courtyard of Wisdom
Direction
Zeedijk 43, 1012 AR Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 624 0436
Web
Visit the website
Hofje van Wijs turned its popular fortnightly dinners into a full-service restaurant in 2010 and returns to its roots with a menu of exclusively Dutch food such as the classic hachee , a traditional stew with cloves and bay leaves. In the mood for coffee or tea? “Wijs” also doubles as a world-class cafe.
Seawall 43
