French Restaurants
On Amsterdam Now, you will find a directory of French restaurants in Amsterdam - from classic bistros and brasseries to fine dining and casual wine bars with a French-oriented menu.
The French restaurant scene in Amsterdam has grown considerably in recent years, in part because Amsterdammers are increasingly choosing oysters and natural wine as their evening routines. French cuisine thus has a solid position in the Amsterdam restaurant landscape. For a complete overview, see the amsterdam restaurants guide on Amsterdam Now.
Bistros and brasseries
The bistro is the most common format for French restaurants in Amsterdam. Small spaces, shared tables, a menu of classics like steak tartare, moules marinières, escargots and crème brûlée - and a wine list that supports the dishes. Bistros are neither the stiffest restaurants nor the noisiest pubs - they are right in the middle, a small restaurant with a cozy atmosphere. The selection of bistros in Amsterdam has grown significantly in recent years, with new openings scattered throughout the city. Check out our overview of franse restaurants Amsterdam for specific addresses.
Fine dining
In addition to casual bistros, Amsterdam has a number of serious French fine dining restaurants, some of which have been awarded a Michelin star. The emphasis here is on seasonal menus, expert service and an extensive wine list. Reservations are almost always required at this category, often weeks in advance. For more options in this segment, see the amsterdam restaurants guide on Amsterdam Now.
Wine bars with French menu
A growing portion of the French restaurant offerings in Amsterdam are in the border area between wine bar and restaurant. Natural wines, a compact menu with French influences - cheese, charcuterie, small dishes - and an informal atmosphere define the character. This type of establishment can be found in De Pijp, the Jordaan and around Utrechtsestraat. See also our overview of Amsterdam bars for more options in this segment.
Boulangeries and lunch stores
French lunch culture has found its own place in Amsterdam. Boulangeries serving artisan croissants, eclairs and sourdough bread are scattered throughout the city, with a concentration in Amsterdam-Zuid and Oud-West. They serve as both morning destinations and lunch spots, complementing the French restaurant offerings outside the evening hours.
Neighborhoods
French restaurants in Amsterdam are concentrated in De Pijp, the Jordaan, Oud-West and Oud-Zuid. Around the Bosboom Toussaintstraat in the Helmers neighborhood in Oud-West, a striking concentration of French bistros and restaurants inspired by Parisian bistro culture has emerged. The complete list of French restaurants in Amsterdam, including reviews and practical info, can be found via the amsterdam restaurants guide on Amsterdam Now.