Where to Find Great Italian Food in Amsterdam

Known for its colourful assortment of Italian gelato and sorbets, this charming spot in Amsterdam’s ever-popular de Jordaan neighbourhood has been in the ice cream game for well over 50 years, placing it among the longest-running establishments of its kind in the Netherlands. Over the years, the team behind Monte Pelmo have perfected many different styles and flavours of the frozen dessert, creating a delightful menu dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of authentic Italian ice cream. There are always dozens of different sorts of gelato and sorbet available by the scoop, ranging from classic flavours like pistachio or yoghurt to more adventurous recipes based on Dutch desserts, such as stroopwafel or apple pie.

At this unique Italian restaurant in central Amsterdam, waiters serenade guests while they dine with songs drawn from classical opera or popular music. These performances begin at 7pm every evening and continue until late at night, allowing visitors to take in a dinner show more or less whenever the mood takes them. The restaurant is also well-known for its excellent menu, which centres around classic Italian pasta dishes, ranging from penne with bolognese sauce to linguine with snow crab, lime and cherry tomatoes. There’s also an enviable number of first-rate wines on offer inside, which are available by the glass or bottle.

Thanks to their reliance on carefully selected Italian ingredients, and use of wood-burning ovens, this popular chain of pizzerias makes some of the finest thin crust pizzas in the entire city. There are currently five de Pizzabakkers located in Amsterdam, which are mostly found in quieter neighbourhoods around the city like Plantage or de Pijp. All five spots share the same menu, which features a refined selection of pizza topped with fresh cheese, meats and veggies, plus other classic dishes from Italian cuisine like bruschetta and tiramisu. Each de Pizzabakkers also serves an impressive range of Italian drinks, with a special emphasis on prosecco (and prosecco-based cocktails).

Staffed by a friendly team of experienced cooks, this welcoming Italian takeout joint ranks among the best spots in central Amsterdam for affordable, tasty and filling lunchtime meals. Situated near Dam Square, the restaurant offers everything from freshly baked calzone to portions of homemade tiramisu. Its menu also features a wide array of Italian sandwiches, stuffed with generous helpings of gorgonzola, cured meats and other Italian delicacies. These tasty dishes are good value and usually cost between €3 to €5. Plus, there’s fresh espresso to go.

This all-in-one Italian hotspot offers much more than food and calls itself a concept store rather than a restaurant. Customers may browse through a selection of goods imported from Italy, including fashion accessories, packaged food and gift items. Aside from providing space for the aforementioned products, Il Sogno also serves Italian dishes throughout the day. Breakfast and lunch are available inside the store, with items ranging from small morning pastries with coffee to larger dishes like freshly baked pizza or lasagna. Il Sogno also functions as a travel agency and organises unique camping trips in Sardinia several times a year.

Tucked away behind Dam Square, this classy restaurant serves modest dishes inspired by classic Italian cookery that are prepared, cooked and presented with the utmost care and attention. Although it is located within eyeshot of the busiest parts of Amsterdam’s historic centre, the restaurant seems far removed from the surrounding hubbub and its peaceful, dimly lit ambience matches perfectly with its sophisticated yet simple menu. There are many well-crafted dishes available on Mappa’s menu, including several Italian classics, such as linguine aglio e olio or goat’s cheese ravioli, plus other lighter dishes like salads or platters of antipasto meant for sharing.

Located just outside the hustle and bustle of inner Amsterdam, on a long and peaceful street called Utrechtsestraat that trails southward from Rembrandtplein, this charming gastropub offers a selection of Italian delicacies, which are available alongside an equally appealing assortment of wine, beer and soft drinks. The dishes at Bar Moustache are simple yet sophisticated, drawing from classic Mediterranean cookery that prizes full, well-balanced flavours over complexity. The restaurant serves pizza and antipasti as snacks from lunch until late at night, making it a perfect spot for drinks and nibbles with friends. It also offers a small dinner menu, which centres around premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood and pasta dishes.

Dying for some authentic Italian pizza cooked to perfection? Then stop by this charming spot on De Clercqstraat, which is famed for its delicious, crispy pizza cooked the traditional way inside a wood-burning oven. Thanks to its cosy yet spacious layout, there’s enough room for several groups of three or four guests to sit comfortably inside the restaurant’s dining area, plus even more seating available outside on Pazzi’s terrace. Aside from pizza topped with ingredients ranging from tuna to smoked cheeses, Pazzi also serves antipasti and desserts, along with plenty of drinks imported from Italy.