12 X Best classic Italian restaurants in Amsterdam >> (2024)

Looking for the best classic Italian restaurants in Amsterdam? Say no more! After extensive testing, tasting, and enjoying, we present the ultimate list for an evening of Italian indulgence.

Best Classic Italian Restaurants in Amsterdam

Not all Italian restaurants are the same, so where should you go if you’re looking for the best classic Italian restaurants in Amsterdam? You can visit Spaghetteria (with multiple locations in Amsterdam) for a quick, uncomplicated bite. However, head to Pepenero, Toscanini, Domenica, and Koevoet for higher-level classic Italian dining. Because little beats a traditional Bolognese, risotto, or tiramisu, here’s an overview of the best Italian restaurants in Amsterdam.

Pepenero

Pepenero is run by the former host of d’Antica and Bice. His years of experience, passion, and love for the craft are evident in even minor details. In the kitchen, authentic Italian dishes are prepared according to original family recipes. The spaghetti al Parmigiano, flambéed at the table, is a genuine taste sensation.
Eerste Oosterparkstraat 3-5, Amsterdam, restaurantpepenero.nl

Toscanini

Since its opening in 1985, Toscanini has been a household name in Amsterdam and its surroundings, making reservations an absolute must. The menu is based on seasonal vegetables and changes regularly, but classics like bruschetta pomodoro, ravioli with ricotta and spinach, and melanzane are often featured. Their dishes excel in simplicity and refinement with a modern twist.
Lindengracht 75, Amsterdam, restauranttoscanini.nl

Eetcafé Koevoet

You’ll find Eetcafé Koevoet near Toscanini, which has been impressing diners since 2007. In a unique historical setting, you can enjoy handmade fresh pasta, bread, and lovingly prepared fish and meat dishes. Once you’ve secured a table, the risotto ai funghi porcini is a must-try.
Lindenstraat 17, Amsterdam, restaurantkoevoet.com

Even More of the Best Classic Italian Restaurants in Amsterdam

Fa. Pekelhaaring

Like the aforementioned establishments, Fa. Pekelhaaring has been around for many years. Its arancini are now famous, as are its delicious oysters, buffalo mozzarella, and linguine with lobster. For a chic yet relaxed evening out, Pekelhaaring is the place to be.
Van Woustraat 127, Amsterdam, pekelhaaring.nl

Bussia

Whether you’re stopping by for coffee, picking up their sweet treats, brunch, lunch, drinks, or dinner, Bussia in the Negen Straatjes always has a cozy atmosphere, and the Italian dishes are waiting for you.
Reestraat 28-32, Amsterdam, bussia.nl

Incanto

Incanto is a beloved spot for private dining, but it’s also perfect for any other occasion or a casual date night. Their risotto and spaghetti cacio e pepe are a massive success.
Amstel 2, Amsterdam, restaurant-incanto.nl

Even More of the Best Classic Italian Restaurants in Amsterdam

Bar Barolo

In Amsterdam Old South, you’ll find Bar Barolo, a trendy spot that brings all the goodness of Italian life to our capital. In addition to traditional Italian recipes (like the grilled sea bass!), they offer matching wines and co*cktails.
Valeriusstraat 90, Amsterdam, barbarolo.nl

Domenica

You must be quick to secure a spot at Domenica on the Noordermarkt. Booking needs to be done weeks in advance. That’s understandable because the flavors of this classic Italian restaurant are almost unmatched. Their menu changes regularly, but it’s a must-try if the pappardelle with ragout is on the menu.
Noordermarkt 7, Amsterdam, restaurantdomenica.com

Fiaschetteria Pistoia

Fiaschetteria Pistoia is a great spot for classic Italian dishes. It has two locations in the city. Everything is made in-house, and you can taste the difference.
Utrechtsedwarsstraat 85a and Lindengracht 95, Amsterdam, fiaschetteriapistoia.com

More of the Best Classic Italian Restaurants in Amsterdam

Segugio

Not far from Fiaschetteria Pistoia, you’ll find Segugio, where the modern kitchen combines centuries-old Italian tradition. Their melanzane and tiramisu have been favorites for years. If you need a kick after eating all those carbs, their delicious affogato is just what you need.
Utrechtsestraat 96, Amsterdam, segugio.nl

Nonna

Although Nonna only recently opened its doors, it’s been a success since then. And no wonder, with an owner responsible for places like Pazzi, Pepito, Gertrude, Linguini, and La Parole. Like its siblings, Nonna is a cozy place where there’s always something happening.
Jan Pieter Heijestraat 110, Amsterdam, nonnaamsterdam.nl

Cecconi’s

Classic, right in the city’s heart, and always reliable, Cecconi’s Amsterdam remains a favorite. The restaurant, part of Soho House, offers weekend brunch and is open for lunch and dinner during the week. Think crispy stone-ovenpizzas, melanzane, and flavorful pasta.
Spuistraat 210, Amsterdam, cecconisamsterdam.com

more Amsterdam tips

Amsterdam Bucketlist & Things to Do
(DIGITAL) ART EXPERIENCES IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Fabrique des Lumières
⋙ NXT Museum
⋙ STRAAT street art museum
⋙ MOCO Museum for street and modern art
⋙ Amaze, an audiovisual labyrint
FOOD EXPERIENCES IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Food Tasting Tour of Jordaan area
⋙ Albert Cuyp Market Food Tour
⋙ Sightseeing Boat Cruise with unlimited drinks
⋙ Pancake Cruise
⋙ Micro Brewery Beer Tasting Tour
BEST BIKE TOURS IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Fatbike e-bike tour (also to Amsterdam North)
⋙ Rent a bike by yourself and explore like a local
⋙
⋙
FIRST TIME VISIT TO AMSTERDAM – MUST SEE & DO’S:
⋙ Private Canal Boat Tour
⋙ Rijksmuseum with the Dutch masters
⋙ Van Gogh Museum, a staple in Amsterdam
⋙ Stedelijk Museum for modern art lovers
⋙ Canal Cruise in the evening
INSTAGRAM MUSEUMS IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Discover the Instagrammable experience WONDR
⋙ Youseum
⋙ The Upside Down
DAY TRIPS FROM AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Get out of town and into the Dutch country side of Giethoorn
⋙ Drive-it-Yourself Tulip Fields GPS Audio Tour
⋙ Catch a direct train from Amsterdam to Antwerp, Brussels, London or Paris, starting at € 20,-!
AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS:
⋙ Visit Artis Royal Zoo
⋙ Go an a bike tour with the kids
⋙ NEMO Science Museum
SPIRNG / SUMMER IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Paddle board tour on the canals
⋙ Go for a kayak-tour in Amsterdam
FALL / WINTER IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour
⋙ Amsterdam Light Festival bike tour

| TIP: Buy an I amsterdam City Card. Save money on entrance fees to museums and attractions, public transport and profit from discounts on everything from restaurants to concerts. You can also skip some lines to make the most of your time in Amsterdam! You can buy a card for 24 hours up to 120 hours. Check the prices here >>

Our favourite hotels in Amsterdam:
TOP LUXURY // €€€
☾ Pillows Maurits at the Park: this newly opened hotel is all about luxury.
☾ Pulitzer Amsterdam: on the canals at the border of the Nine Streets and the Jordaan.
☾ L’Europe: recently renovated, this hotel has the best spa with a view in Amsterdam.
☾ Conservatorium Hotel: located in one of the most beautiful buildings in town.
☾ Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: if you have something to celebrate this is the one.
☾ W Amsterdam: with lively restaurants and a posh rooftop bar with swimming pool.
VERY VERY NICE // €€
☾ The Hoxton: favourite lifestyle hotel right on the canals with great all day bar.
☾ Hotel Jakarta: the most sustainable hotel ánd great value for money with a spa.
☾ Hotel V: with two locations and a great restaurant, in the city center and East.
☾ Sir Adam: with the coolest view over Amsterdam from the North side.
☾ Sweets: a unique stay in former bridge houses.
☾ Hotel Dwars: small scale and around the corner of the trendy Utrechtsestraat.
☾ Hotel Mercier: pretty new hotel in the cosy and historic Jordaan district.
☾ INK Hotel: lifestyle hotel in the heart of the city by MGallery.
☾ boutique hotel with restaurant in Amsterdam West.
☾ Conscious Hotel Westerpark: in a beautiful building at the industrial Westergas area.
☾ Ruby Emma: eco design hotel with a great skybar near Amstel station.
AFFORDABLE (FOR AMSTERDAM PRICES) // €
☾ Generator Hostel: the best poshtel of the city located in a park.
☾ The Social Hub budget proof in trendy East district close tho the subway.
☾ Het Volkshotel: affordable and with a cool rooftop bar.
☾ CitizenM: all you need is that XL bed (location near Amstel is great).
☾ Motel One: budget design hotel with several locations in Amsterdam.

Let’s get social

I really hope you enjoy your time in Amsterdam! On my Instagram account @yourlbb and @yourlbb.amsterdam you can find more recommendations and new hotspots in town.