The Netherlands, AmsterdamOctober 21, 2025, by Carlijn Veltman

Former owner of Michelin-star restaurant Coulisse now opens Café-Bar Vita Lente

Eat & Drink, Restaurant
The Netherlands, Amsterdam, October 21, 2025, by Carlijn Veltman

Former owner of Michelin-star restaurant Coulisse now opens Café-Bar Vita Lente

A new hotspot has been born in Amsterdam West (on the always lively Jan Pieter Heijestraat): Simon Witmaar, you know, the former owner of the Michelin-starred restaurant Coulisse, has exchanged the linen napkin and the course menus for something much nicer (at least, that's what he thinks). and we must agree): Café-Bar Vita LenteThat means slow living, but in a Southern European style. With a glass of wine in hand and something delicious on the table that you absolutely want to share (or not).

Café-Bar Vita Lente Amsterdam: From Michelin star to long live the drink

Café-Bar Vita Lente Amsterdam: From Michelin star to long live the drink

After almost twenty years maintenance dining Simon thought: things could all use a more relaxed, cozy, and spontaneous atmosphere. No bookings weeks in advance, no strict seven-course menu, just walk in and enjoy the delicious food (and drinks!).

At Café-Bar Vita Lente Amsterdam no haute FoodBut plenty of Southern European snacks to share, larger grilled dishes, and everything geared towards… well, the drinks. Because the bar is the real star here. Glass of wine? Absolutely. Sherry? Always. Vermouth? Loads of it. And for the non-alcoholic enthusiasts: homemade iced tea, kombucha, and sparkling tea—also delicious.

The building

The building

Inside space for about 35 food & wine lovers, including a dining bar and a semi-open kitchen where chef Bas Holthuizen (also formerly of Coulisse) is at the helm of the gas stove. In the spring, you can relax on the terrace (15 seats!).

They are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, but the rest of the days they are open all day long.

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