Most steakhouses in Amsterdam city center open their doors between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM for dinner, with some also serving lunch from 12:00 PM. During weekdays, they typically close around 10:00-11:00 PM, while many establishments stay open until midnight on weekends. Exact opening hours vary by restaurant, with modern steakhouses often maintaining more flexible hours than traditional establishments.
When Are Steakhouses in Amsterdam City Center Open?
Steakhouses in bustling downtown Amsterdam maintain different opening hours that cater to the diverse needs of their guests. Most premium steakhouses open their doors around 5:00 PM for dinner on weekdays, while you can often visit from 4:00 PM on weekends. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy an extensive meal.
The difference between weekday and weekend hours is especially noticeable in closing times. While you can typically dine until 10:30 or 11:00 PM on weekdays, many steakhouses stay open until midnight or even 1:00 AM on Friday and Saturday. This accommodates the nightlife crowd who want to enjoy a good steak after an evening at the theater or late drinks.
Traditional steakhouses often stick to fixed opening hours, for example daily from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Modern concepts offer more flexibility with extended happy hours, late night dining, and sometimes even continuous kitchen service. This development responds to the changing dining habits of Amsterdammers and tourists who want to dine at different times of the day.
What Is the Best Time to Visit a Steakhouse Without a Reservation?
If you want to visit an Amsterdam steakhouse without a reservation, the early dinner hours between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM are your best chance. At these times, most tables are still available and you can often be seated immediately. This especially applies to weeknight evenings when business dinners haven’t started yet and tourists are often still en route.
You have significantly better chances of getting a table without a reservation on weekdays than on weekends. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are traditionally the quietest evenings in hospitality. Friday and Saturday evenings, however, are popular for dates and group dinners, so walk-ins after 7:00 PM are often disappointed.
Seasons and tourist periods greatly influence how busy it gets. During the summer months from June to August, around the Christmas period, and during major events like King’s Day or the Amsterdam Dance Event, it’s practically impossible to secure a good table without a reservation. During these periods, we recommend reserving at least a week in advance, even for weeknight dinners.
Are Steakhouses in Amsterdam City Center Also Open for Lunch?
About half of the steakhouses in Amsterdam city center do indeed serve lunch, usually between 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM. These lunch hours are especially popular with business guests seeking a quality meal during their workday. However, the offerings differ significantly from the dinner menu.
Business lunches on weekdays are characterized by faster service and more compact menus. You often find business lunch arrangements with two or three courses for a fixed price, with emphasis on efficient service without compromising quality. Weekend brunches, on the other hand, are more extensive, with special brunch dishes like steak and eggs or beef Benedict alongside classic steaks.
The price differences between lunch and dinner are considerable. While you easily pay 35-50 euros for a main course in the evening, lunch prices often range between 15-25 euros. Many steakhouses offer special lunch menus with smaller portions or different cuts of meat that better suit a midday meal. This makes a visit to a premium steakhouse accessible during the day as well.
How Late Can You Still Get a Late Dinner at a Steakhouse?
For a late dinner, you need to consider the last order time for the kitchen, which at most steakhouses falls between 9:30 PM and 10:30 PM. This means you can still place your order until this time, but the doors often stay open another hour so you can finish your meal in peace.
There are clear differences between weekdays and weekends regarding late dining possibilities. On weekdays, many kitchens close at 9:30 PM, while on weekends you can often still order until 10:30 PM or even 11:00 PM. Some modern steakhouses in the nightlife areas around Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein maintain even more generous hours.
For theatergoers and late diners, there are fortunately more and more options. Some steakhouses offer special theater menus where you can dine quickly before the show, or come for a late bite after it ends. Popular theaters like Carré and the Stadsschouwburg are within walking distance of various steakhouses that cater to this with extended opening hours and adapted menus for quick service.
Why Choose Vlees & Co in Amsterdam-Noord?
If you’re looking for a premium steakhouse experience just outside the busy city center, Vlees & Co in Amsterdam-Noord offers an excellent alternative. Our Amsterdam location is easily accessible by free ferry from Central Station in just 5 minutes, or by car via the A10 with ample free parking directly in front of the door.
We maintain generous opening hours to accommodate different preferences. From Tuesday through Sunday, we welcome you from 5:00 PM for dinner, with our kitchen taking orders until 10:00 PM on weekdays and until 10:30 PM on weekends. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy our international meat selection, including USA Prime, Scottish Angus, and Japanese Wagyu.
At our restaurant, the complete meat experience is central. Our meat sommeliers are happy to tell you everything about the origin and preparation of each cut of meat on our menu. The combination of top-quality meat, artisanal charcoal preparation, and personal service makes a visit to Vlees & Co a special experience. Reservations can be made easily online or by phone, and we always do our best to accommodate walk-ins when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I also eat vegetarian or vegan at a steakhouse in Amsterdam city center?
Yes, most modern steakhouses now offer vegetarian and often vegan options as well. Think of grilled portobellos, cauliflower steaks, or plant-based alternatives. It's wise to check this in advance on the website or mention it when making your reservation, so the kitchen can take this into account.
How much time should I allow for a complete steakhouse experience?
Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a relaxed dinner with appetizer, main course, and dessert. For just a main course, you can manage with 45-60 minutes. At premium steakhouses where meat is prepared à la minute and you receive extensive advice from a meat sommelier, a complete experience can even take 2.5 to 3 hours.
What is the price difference between steakhouses in the center and outside?
Steakhouses in Amsterdam city center charge on average 20-30% higher prices than comparable restaurants outside the center. A 300-gram ribeye in the center often costs €35-45, while you pay €25-35 outside for the same quality. This price difference comes from higher rent prices, tourist tax, and the central location.
Do I need to follow a dress code at Amsterdam steakhouses?
Most steakhouses in Amsterdam maintain a smart casual dress code, which means you need to look well-groomed but not formal. Sportswear, flip-flops, and caps are usually discouraged. For business dinners or special occasions, you can choose business casual. When in doubt, always check with the restaurant itself.
Are steakhouses suitable for large groups and corporate dinners?
Absolutely! Most steakhouses have separate rooms or large tables for groups of 8-20 people. For larger parties, you can often rent part of the restaurant or a private room. Many steakhouses offer special group arrangements with fixed menus and shared dining concepts, which simplifies organization and billing.
What happens if I'm late for my reservation?
Most steakhouses hold your table 15-20 minutes past your reserved time. If you're later, always call to let them know. At popular restaurants, your table may be given away to walk-ins after 30 minutes. Some restaurants charge no-show fees if you don't show up without canceling, especially for large groups or on busy evenings.