Balthazar's Keuken

"Gezellig, So Gezellig On a rainy summer night (thunder! lightening!), we had very low expectations of getting a table at Balthazar's Keuken—mostly because something I read said that it was hard to get in. But there was a table, right in the back by the open kitchen, waiting for us. (The photo is of our view of the kitchen.) They serve a fixed menu. First course was a platter of appetizers, including paprika-y sobressada on bread with fried sage, beautifully anchovy-laden fried artichokes, shrimp in sage butter, and smoked mussels. For the second course we had a choice of fish (they called it red bass, not sure what that is but it was great) or meat (veal in a hearty sauce). And dessert was fresh strawberries with mascarpone laced with ginger. By AFAR Traveler , AFAR Contributor"

"People have been returning from Amsterdam with tales of life-changing meals at this teeny Jordaan spot since it opened back in 1995—and the three-course menus, which are set and tweaked weekly according to what’s in season by chefs Karin Gaasterland and Alain Parry really do live up to the hype: expect farm-fresh crudité, from-scratch risotto, and really incredible desserts. The open-kitchen, hand-written menus, and snug seating arrangement (in the summer months the staff sets up charming street-side tables) makes for a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Definitely call ahead for reservations. "

"While open kitchens are commonplace these days, this one has very little separation from the dining room. It truly feels as if you're dining in someone's home, which is the goal of chefs Karin Gaasterland and Alain Parry. The three-course menus tend towards the rustic and seasonal, with dishes like Red mullet with saffron and candied lemon risotto and guinea fowl with roasted potato, onion, and Brussels sprouts." - Meredith Bethune

"A cozy, quirky meal in the Jordaan The vibe Homey The crowd Laid-back The drinks Opt for wine pairings The food Rustic and market-driven" - Meredith Bethune