Nice romantic restaurants where we dine (throughout the Netherlands)
Valentine's Day is coming. Romantic dinner for two... And whether that's with your partner or with a friend, we all feel like it sometimes. So we have to roll up our sleeves And voilà: a whole laundry list of delicious restaurants where we can settle down for that romantic atmosphere. We'll kick it off with some of our favorites in Amsterdam and then add "the rest of the Netherlands." Oh! Keep an eye on this list, because we'll keep adding to it. All the way until 2030.
These four dates are guaranteed to be a success:
Latte (He)art Workshop at Vascobelo Amsterdam & Utrecht
Always wanted to pour your love into a cappuccino? During the Latte (He)art Workshop, you and your date will learn to make the perfect latte heart in 1,5 hours. Includes lunch, unlimited coffee, and beans or cups to take home.
February 14 | Amsterdam & Utrecht | €65
Fitz's Love Flight, Amsterdam
At Fitz's Bar, you can try three mini cocktails all Valentine's weekend, specially crafted with Diplomático Rum. Perfect for sipping together without going home completely knocked out. And what's more: Cupid Punch remains on the menu throughout February.
February 13–15 | €29
The Japanese Valentine's Day Menu, Amsterdam
The roses are red, the plates Delftware. The Japanese restaurant serves a Valentine's Day menu to fall in love with: nine dishes filled with favorites like hamachi sashimi, nasu dengaku, and oysters with yuzu sake.
February 14 | €57,50 per person
Cocktail flight at Sumventure Flightbar, Utrecht
Sumventure pairs three cocktails with perfectly matched chocolate from Hop & Stork. With rose, cherry, cocoa, and rum, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
February 13–15 | €45
Valentine's Day or not, February is the perfect month for a culinary outing (cold outside, a good excuse to sit at the table for a long time) and Hotel De Plesman want to put on your list. Around Valentine's Day they pack up en casa Restaurant Suus is going the extra mile with a specially curated 4-course menu (€65 per person) featuring a perfectly cooked rump steak as a main course or a surprising smoked beetroot for those who prefer vegetarian options. The menu can be combined with a wine pairing – a real treat.
Also ideal as a gift idea, just saying. And if you want to make it a mini break, you can simply book an overnight stay at the hotel.
Image: Chantal Arnts
An eternal mega favorite: the French Parlotte on the Westerstraat, in the heart of the Jordaan. A spot at the bar, shells, a delicious bottle of wine, and then just gazing deeply into each other's eyes is—long story short—the perfect evening.
Although we must say that the new (Feb 2026) Room, also on Westerstraat, is just as impressive as the French restaurant! And what's more, it's cozy, incredibly welcoming, and the ultimate dessert restaurant. Sweet, yes, for most people, the edible love language eminently.
Also nice in French is Pastis, the romantic restaurant on the Eerste Constantijn Huygensstraat: Pastis
On the Zeedijk with a prospect of 4,5, 6 or 2 courses. Sometimes they even serve an extra course or XNUMX, how lucky is that. Long dining is always a good idea, because good conversations come with time. And on date night (with your lover, sister, girlfriend, family, choose who you want to bring) it is nice to take some time for each other.
In the bar (downstairs) you can chat for a while (if you haven't done enough after those 6 courses) with a delicious cocktail or a good glass of wine. On to Trees!
(and yes, big sister Gertrude is and remains a good idea)
In the Spaarndammerbuurt you will find Moss, the kind of (food) café where you secretly want to linger. Start with a drink at the bar, move on to a delicious dinner and before you know it you're drinking until closing time. The menu? Fine dishes that perfectly complement the atmosphere of the neighborhood - casual, but always tasty. The setting feels like you're entering a cozy living room, complete with friends and nice music. The red lighting and candlelight give it a romantic touch, but not too much. Moos is perfect for those who want to keep it nice and relaxed, but still want good food and a good time.
Regional products from Amsterdam, but what should you consider? well, just anything that's tasty and that comes from Amsterdam. Such as (natural) wines from Pieksman in Oost, fresh bread from sourdough bakery Mater, cheese from Zuivelhoeve. The men of Bar Babar know how to find these specialties.
An evening full of wine and cheese sounds like a wonderful evening to dream away. With a nice date on the other side of the table, if possible. This is possible at Bar Babar. A living room feeling with French influences. Double Yes due.
For romantic atmospheres you are in the right place. Because for an intimate bistro with that real 'o la la' feeling you have to go to AMI. This all-day hotspot in De Pijp is somewhat reminiscent of city of love paris, but with a modern Amsterdam twist. The interior, designed by Studio Modijefsky, is warm and playful with lots of red accents and vintage details - romance guaranteed. Here you eat as if you are sitting on the Seine, but then just in Amsterdam. Très chic, but still nice and casual.
You ask: romantic restaurant? We say: Restaurant de Juwelier. This handsome business on Utrechtsestraat is a mix between bistro and chic. The menu is small but nice and never (really never) disappoints. A real gem in Amsterdam. Your date will leave with a smile from ear to ear. Promise.
Restaurant Jansz in the Pulitzer Hotel. In the heart of Amsterdam and ideal for a bit of romance: girl-girls (because pink curtains), men-men (because big and light and fool-proof), foodies (because tasty), what-the-farmer-not -know-that-don't-eat-ers (because there is plenty of Dutch food on the menu), insecure couples (the staff chats, if you like, for three) and go-away couples are all at home here.
Not the place for your tompouces and white buns. For large sourdough loaves and crispy poolish (type of baguette) to take home. It is also the place to have lunch, drinks and good food. The decor is sleek and modern, lots of light shades of wood, white walls and an open, dark blue painted ceiling (where you can still see the pipes hanging). As with all fine places that know what good food is, the menu is small and filled with only tasty things. There is plenty of 'modern' on the menu (burrata, butterfly chicken, Burnt Basque cheesecake), but also a surprising selection of – almost old-fashioned – classics. For lunch you have the option to order a twelve-hour meal (a favorite) that changes daily. Tearing bread together, how romantic.
Auberge (formerly Auberge Jean & Marie) in De Pijp is the perfect place to have a romantic evening with your partner (or mother, father, boyfriend, girlfriend, you care). The level of the French menu is always high and the friendly service is always top notch.
This is the right place for a romantic dinner. Really, really delicious French food in De Pijp. Run by the sons of top chef Alain Caron (with help from fathers), it is fantastic because of its classic looks and good cuisine. A restaurant where lovebirds can have a great time.
Located on the cozy Ten Katemarkt Bar Central. The perfect date night spot if you ask us. Oh, and they're open seven days a week. At Bar Centraal the atmosphere is intimate, cozy and at the same time great fun. You drink (natural) wines here (because hello, this place is the sister of GlouGlou). Here you eat small dishes, so you can enjoy eating them together from one plate. In addition, Bar Centraal is also a nice one in this list in terms of price. You can make it as expensive as you want here.
You might be looking at this list in winter, but it's also possible the weather is nice. Then definitely take a look at this list: the tastiest, most beautiful and nicest outdoor (seasonal) restaurants in the country! Bart's Booklet Outdoor Restaurants
The Belhamel, a piece of Paris chic romance in the Jordan. The kitchen? French European. The location? At the intersection of the Herengracht and the beautiful Brouwersgracht, with a terrace on the water. Anyway, that terrace is often a little too cold in the winter months. But we can say it is a favorite. In short: a fantastic place for a bit of romance (and actually always). Promise.
Located on Nesplein (that nice hidden square behind Rokin). Hotel V. And it is located inside Hotel V The Lobby Amsterdam. The appearance is vintage-chic and the changing menu is always surprising and pleasant. Whether you stay there until late or hop on to another nice place after dinner (there are plenty of them of course), The Lobby is always a good idea. And if you really want to pamper yourself and your partner: stay overnight at Hotel V. A romantic evening is a romantic evening, just the whole picture. right?
Is it the first date? And are you still a little nervous? Read our great guide for a comfortable date here!
Is there anything more "romantic date" than a bottle of good wine? Perhaps, but it's definitely in our "top 10 essentials" for such a date. We're fans of the Brabant-based Wolf Winery and the many evenings they host with guest chefs/guest restaurants, such as the people from Brabant Fatherland (read moreKeep an eye on both Wolf and Vaderland's schedules when you're out and about in Brabant's long nights!
How about a date by the water? That's a winner anyway. Nice for dining, but also ideal on a lovely summer day. Restaurant Bakbord has a beautiful spacious terrace where you can sit on lounge sofas in the sun, while watching the boats sail by on the Gooimeer. Add a bottle of bubbles. Let's go! Move inside when the sun sets for a fine dining experience with delicious (forgotten) products from the area, such as Zeeland oysters and fish from the North Sea. Go for the Chefs Experience Menu with a choice of 3 to 8 courses for the full experience. Yes please!
Oh, oh, The Hague. We love you and love you too Café Bistro Jules. This fine restaurant has a menu full of French cuisine with a modern twist and a touch of Swiss. The dishes are made with as many local ingredients as possible. Choice stress? Then you simply choose the chef's surprise menu. Would you rather decide for yourself? A la carte is also an option. The atmosphere is informal and approachable, but perfect for a bit romance
The delicious salmon house in Rotterdam has fresh sushi that is just a little bit different, delicious tacos and an option for high wine. You want everything, because Zalmhuis is one where you can dine with a view over the IJssel and Maas, it starts with the r and ends with omantisch.
Yes, if you are in Rotterdam for dinner we are a little jealous. That means that you The Sailor and the Girl can join in. And yes, we say 'can', but we mean 'you want this!'. At this cozy restaurant you can eat 'guest table', a fancy term for 'whatever you buy' and you will be well pampered. From good wines to the little surprise with coffee.
Fancy a little casual romantic? The Open Kitchen in Beverwijk has a living room atmosphere where cool-romantic is more appropriate than 'sweet'. The interior is warm, cozy and sturdy with lots of wood. The menu is extensive with tapas, vegetarian options, Dutch shrimps, you name it.
Near Eindhoven is Gemert, and there, at Kasteellaan 1, you'll find Restaurant GEM. Speaking of romantic restaurants, GEM is definitely one of them. Set in a castle amidst lush greenery, it boasts Michelin-star dining. Surinamese-Hindustani spices, French precision, and seasonal Dutch produce all come together on a single plate. Familiar yet surprising. So, Restaurant GEM has two Michelin stars, so we know it's going to be a Valentine's Day treat.
Located in Haarlem Samabe: a Bali meets Haarlem café where you can eat Indonesian food. And let's be honest, there's nothing better than a nasi rendang with a beer. And all this with your lover. Doing!
They know what to do with Valentine's Day in Haarlem. At Bistro ML you can reserve a romantic four-course dinner, or choose the exclusive seven-course Valentine's menu in the starred restaurant.
Why is that so nice? Well, in the heart of Haarlem, somewhat hidden in a renovated national monument from the 17th century, there is suddenly Restaurant ML. ML of Mark and Liane, hence the name, has a star and we like stars. Especially when it concerns a star restaurant that is located in a beautiful old building and has a beautiful courtyard. In the winter it is beautiful to look out on it. The amuses and the wine are delicious. Stand out in themselves. And of course change with the season. The rest of the menu? We liked that too.
If you really want to do well, there is no other option than to race towards Hartjesberg (no joke). What's in a name. There is a dream villa in Park Sonsbeek on top of the Hartjesberg. Here you can enjoy a fantastic view of the park and the city of Arnhem. You and your puppy eat together City villa Sonsbeek and then top it off with a grand dessert, sounds good right? If you want to end with a romantic overnight stay; be sure to check out the apartments Walburgis Residences even.
Aesthetically and structurally, as little as possible has changed in the beautiful monumental building Mr. Sammi in house, which creates a truly authentic and historic atmosphere. High ceilings, roughly finished brick walls, steel windows and even the original graffiti drawings have been preserved. Great for those who are not so sweet and haters of pink, but where the romantic atmosphere cannot be missed.
We don't have to tell you that Peruvian cuisine is completely hot and happening. If you bring your first date, then... Callao Cevicheria a good place. The view is more than great, you look out over the harbor of Scheveningen. There is a huge choice of cocktails and there are also various dishes to share. And hey, at least this way you get to know each other well.
077 refers to the postal code of this area, the rest of the name speaks for itself: an amazing, breathtaking 360-degree view awaits you here. With a menu full of delicious dishes, you're in the right place here. Oh yes, you can sit at the bar here very nicely, Romantic, immense?
Aaah Maastricht, romance at its finest. In this tiny restaurant - in one of the nicest streets in Maastricht - you will find Le Fernand. Sound through the speakers songs, delicious French wines on the menu and of course dishes such as escargots, camembert and oysters. We are not exaggerating when we say that everything on the menu here is delicious. An oh-so-nice place to be with your favorite person(s).
In a vaulted cellar on Rechtstraat in Maastricht, you can explore the dark, romantic corners. Sounds dark, but it's actually just a good plan. A cocktail bar with class with jazz music in the background. So we would Mr. Smith describe. To enter, press the tiny golden bell outside and wait patiently for a handsome one bartender or woman opens the door and voilà: the wandering can begin. There's nothing like a little bit of fun tipsy get through that date. Favorite cocktail here? The old fashioned; the balance between American whiskey, bitter and yet sweet is delicious.
If there is something 'two hands on one stomach', it is castles & romance. You will swoon there. Ecykholt Castle is a pearl. Dating from the 18th century, but renovated with an eye for the old charm. Nice! Fine dining? Count us in. For all lovers (or others you love, of course that's also possible) out there, book your table here.
A brasserie, for everybody. In other words: a classic brasserie, but with a vintage twist. So we would Aunt Tilly describe. And if we say so ourselves: perfect for dinner. You are surrounded by a warm and colorful interior; You don't have to choose because the shared dining menu consists of all kinds of different dishes. Walking into Aunt Tilly's house is a joy.
French songs in the background, bistro chairs and lavender-colored shutters: although it is 'normal' the Netherlands - although we wonder whether Limburg is really the Netherlands, right? - we imagine ourselves here in France. And god, that's so nice. A pearl of a restaurant, in a characteristic farmhouse from 1895. For example, choose the 3- or 4-course dinner with, of course, a suitable wine pairing. Psst: this hotel has seven guest rooms. So a tip for a really long romantic weekend: add a night after that delicious dinner. Never a punishment.
They have the credo 'love goes through the stomach' At the Neighbors well understood. Bij de Buren is located in the nicest street in Venlo - the Keizerstraat - and is known for its delicious shared dining dishes they serve. From a fish tartare to vongole with mussels or Japanese pork steak: something for everyone.
Eindhoven has a new favorite spot. Bar Pietro on the corner of Grote Berg and Bergstraat is small, cozy and exudes that unmistakable Italian ease.
Bar Pietro is Pieter's labor of love (aka Pietro, born and raised in Eindhoven with a passion for food, hospitality, and the good life. The moment you step inside, you'll notice the heart and soul put into this place. The menu features schiacciata sandwiches you won't easily find in Eindhoven (and the surrounding area). We hear you thinking, a schia-what?! A schiacciata is an Italian bread, golden brown and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. The perfect base for a generous sandwich packed with flavor.
A knife to our throat for the best restaurant in 's-Hertogenbosch? Faran! A young team, unique dishes, and a small and cozy restaurant. End is such a fine dining restaurant that we hope never leaves Den Bosch. They serve a culinary dinner from the Nikkei kitchen? Out of the wattus? Nikkei cuisine originated when Japanese emigrated to South America. They brought Japanese techniques, cooking methods and product knowledge with them, creating new dishes. For Faran, it mainly means that mixing cultures produces something special. They stand out in the city and that's why you want to be there
There are several seats by the open kitchen, so you can see where and how your food is being prepared while you eat. And the price-quality ratio is excellent. A four-course menu costs between forty and fifty euros, a five-course menu is a bit more, and the wine pairing will set you back between 30 and 40 euros. You're guaranteed a truly memorable night out here, thanks to the enthusiastic team. Good news: a bistro is also on the way!
