Felix Café in Felix Meritis: a new living room on the Keizersgracht

Felix Café in Felix Meritis: a new living room on the Keizersgracht

Felix Meritis on the Keizersgracht in Amsterdam is no stranger to the city. For centuries, a home for ideas, culture, and entrepreneurship, and recently also for what connects people best: food. Enter Felix CaféThis beautiful canal house from 1788 forms the backdrop, and it is immediately one in the category: not the least impressive.

The building makes an impression from the very first moment, both inside and out. Inside, you are served by staff who are sweet and engaged, and who know a remarkable amount about the property. Less traditional service, more of a cultural experience. vibeNo standard platitudes here, but genuine stories. So if you're up for a chat and they have a moment, you might even learn something here.

The concept is clear: a place for Amsterdammers to eat and drink well. You sit in a beautiful, open space with high ceilings and authentic details. The window seats are a favorite, allowing you to watch the canal life a bit while you sit.

The food is a surprise. Not a predictable menu, but dishes that are just a little bit different. We started with asparagus with wild garlic, Opperdoezer potato and egg, and wontons with lobster in bisque – our intention was to share, but that didn't quite work out. Next, risotto with broad beans and wild spinach, and Secreto Iberico with romesco and Cévennes onion. We finished with strained yogurt with blood orange and a millefeuille with chocolate cream and pecans. Absolutely delicious.

The café is also perfectly suited for dinner with a larger group, and secretly, we can totally see ourselves using it as a lunch spot too. For now, they are not open for lunch yet, but who knows, maybe we are giving a little nudge in the right direction with this.

With the opening of Felix Café, a large part of the ground floor is being given a new purpose. No room in the café? Then there is always the lounge. Just as nice a spot to drop down, write, toast, share, or simply hang out. The interior is anything but standard: many pieces of furniture already have a life behind them or come with a story of their own.

Another nice feature: there is always something to see. Rotating art on the walls and the occasional small performance provide that extra dimension. The event is kicked off by artist Milan Sipistoo, who draws inspiration from various cultures, music, and social themes, and this is reflected in his expressive work.

Felix Café