Taste
The best terraces in the Netherlands: where to sit this season
Spring officially starts tomorrow, and that means one thing: terrace season. Ideally with a good glass and something delicious.
Spring officially kicks off tomorrow, and that means only one thing: terrace time. Preferably with a good glass and something refined on the table. But where should you really be? Culinary & Hospitality Expert Carsten Klint selects the terraces where you want to be seen this season.
Brasserie Marie | Amsterdam
On the Amstel, in De L'Europe, Brasserie Marie brings the atmosphere of a classic Parisian brasserie to the heart of Amsterdam, but just a little lighter and more modern. Inside, it feels warm and elegant, while outside, it's all about the terrace: right on the water, with a view of the boats slowly gliding by and enough peace and quiet to really linger for a while. Especially on sunny days, this is one of those places where lunch effortlessly turns into a long afternoon.
According to Carsten, it is precisely that balance that makes the difference: “Everything just fits together here. The view, the tranquility by the Amstel, and a kitchen that feels classic without being heavy — this is the kind of terrace where you sit down and won't be getting up anytime soon.”
Central Park | Voorburg
“This is one of those places where you really get away from it all,” says Carsten. “You are surrounded by greenery, and everything automatically slows down a notch here.” Central Park has a Michelin star for a reason: the whole picture is right. The stately building, the terrace overlooking the park, and the tranquil setting create a place where you effortlessly linger longer.
You see that same line reflected in the kitchen. Classic dishes form the basis, but are presented in a refined and contemporary way, with clear flavors and well-structured sauces. No excess, but precision, and that is exactly what that star stands for.
Restaurant Aan de Poel | Amstelveen
Two Michelin stars and a view over De Poel. Known for the refined cuisine of Stefan van Sprang, with subtle Asian influences. The terrace is open and spacious.
Restaurant Inter Scaldes | Kruiningen
Two Michelin stars and a fixture in Dutch top gastronomy for years. Located in Zeeland, with a focus on local products and an understated setting.
Restaurant De Kas | Amsterdam
“Here, you are actually right in the middle of the product,” says Carsten. “What you see growing is on your plate a moment later — it doesn’t get any fresher.” De Kas has a Michelin star and a Green Michelin star, and you can feel that in everything. The restaurant is situated in a large glass greenhouse, with a terrace that borders directly on the garden. That terrace, in particular, is one to remember: open, green, and remarkably quiet for Amsterdam.
The kitchen follows the rhythm of the harvest. Vegetables take center stage, with occasional fish or meat as an addition. Flavors are fresh, light, and well-balanced, without becoming complicated. Everything here revolves around what is growing at that moment, and that makes every visit just a little different.
The Treeswijkhoeve | Waalre
Two Michelin stars, classic in concept. Situated in a wooded area with a sheltered terrace. Known for technical precision and balanced dishes.
Amstel Hotel Terrace | Amsterdam
Terrace on the Amstel with a view of the water and passing boats. Part of the Amstel Hotel, with a formal yet accessible atmosphere.
Café De Jaren | Amsterdam
“This is the kind of place where you can always pull up a chair,” says Carsten. “No fuss, just a good terrace by the water.” And that sums up Café de Jaren quite well. Right in the city center, but thanks to its location on the Amstel, it feels surprisingly spacious and open. The terrace at the back is large, with plenty of sun and a view of the water, and even a jetty for those arriving by boat.
Inside, it is light and spacious, while outside it is mainly lively. You can come here just as easily for coffee as for a long lunch, and reservations are not necessary. It is precisely this accessibility that makes it a place you keep coming back to.
W Lounge | Amsterdam
The W Lounge sits atop the W Hotel, in the former KPN communications center. It is a rooftop terrace with views of the city, where the focus is primarily on cocktails and atmosphere. Details from the building's past—such as the copper pipes and lines in the glass—are subtly incorporated into the design.
The terrace itself is compact but lively, especially towards the afternoon and evening. Music, events, and a mix of hotel guests and Amsterdammers create an energetic setting, with the skyline as a constant backdrop.
Soho House | Amsterdam (members only)
On the canal, but just outside the usual hustle and bustle. The terrace at Soho House is accessible only to members, making it feel much quieter and more secluded than most places in the city.George Marina | Amsterdam
“If Amsterdam doesn’t need to feel like Amsterdam for a moment, you sit here,” says Carsten. George Marina is situated on the Amstel in the Amstelkwartier and has a spacious terrace overlooking the marina, with plenty of light and activity around you. Boats mooring, glasses being filled — it feels natural.
The atmosphere is relaxed, with a slight nod to the Côte d'Azur. On the menu, you will find many dishes to share, with Asian influences that make it just a little more exciting.
Pulitzer Garden | Amsterdam
Tucked away behind the canal houses lies the garden of the Pulitzer Hotel. A place you don't stumble upon just like that, and which is precisely why it is so pleasant. As soon as you walk in, the hustle and bustle of the city actually fades away immediately.
The terrace is situated amidst greenery, sheltered and quiet, with tables scattered throughout the garden. Ideal if you want to sit for a while without rushing traffic or crowded terraces around you — while still being right in the heart of Amsterdam.
Oriole | Amsterdam
In the courtyard of The Grand, Oriole feels a bit like a hidden city garden. Lots of greenery, an open setting, and a terrace that immediately feels quieter than you would expect in this place.
The atmosphere leans towards the Mediterranean, and this is reflected on the table. Light dishes, plenty of fresh ingredients, and a setting that lends itself just as well to a long lunch as to an aperitivo at the end of the day.
Restaurant De Mark | Durgerdam
“You would make a detour without hesitation for this view,” says Carsten. And that is true. De Mark is located in quiet Durgerdam, right on the water, with a terrace overlooking the IJmeer. Open, light, and with few distractions — here, it is mainly about sitting and watching.
Indoor and outdoor spaces flow effortlessly into one another. That same calm pace is reflected on the plate: a few main ingredients, prepared over fire, with attention to taste and texture.
