Neighborhood guide (around) the Willemspark
Willemspark: living between city and park
The Willemspark neighborhood, sandwiched between Vondelpark and Koninginneweg, is one of those classic Amsterdam neighborhoods where the city spills over into leafy residential areas. Wide avenues, stately houses, an almost village-like tranquility—and all just a stone's throw from Museumplein and the city center. The neighborhood was built in the early 20th century as a villa park. Its origins go back even further: in 1881, city engineer J.G. van Niftrik had already drawn up an ambitious plan to create a luxury residential area here, around ponds that extended into the Vondelpark. The neighborhood finally took shape in 1902 and was named after King Willem III. Emmaplein forms the monumental center, with its characteristic sightlines and generous layout.
Behind Willemspark was a remarkable collective of Amsterdam entrepreneurs and administrators. Well-known names such as former mayor Den Tex and banker Van Eeghen wanted to prevent wealthy Amsterdammers from Rooms en masse to Haarlem or the Gooi. Their solution: a high-quality residential area on the southern edge of the city, with plenty of space, greenery, and grandeur.
At that time, there was a great need for a more spacious living environment. The city center was struggling with congestion, dense development, and unhealthy canals. Thanks to the arrival of the train, horse-drawn tram (and later tram line 2), Willemspark became perfectly accessible, without the hustle and bustle of the city. Access to the Vondelpark—at that time only for local residents—was literally around the corner.
Even the railway got its own station here: Willemspark Station, on Amstelveenseweg, opened in 1915 and grew into the Haarlemmermeer Station we know today. Today, Willemspark remains a popular neighborhood. Authentic buildings, beautiful sightlines, and proximity to Vondelpark and the city make it one of the most sought-after residential areas in Amsterdam.
Anyone walking through Willemspark will immediately notice: there is space here, there is peace here. But the charm of this neighborhood lies not only in its stately avenues and the Vondelpark around the corner. It is precisely the combination with everything Amsterdam-Zuid has to offer that makes living here so attractive. From Emmaplein, the streets fan out towards Museumplein, Concertgebouw, Cornelis Schuytstraat, and the chic neighborhoods of Oud-Zuid. On the west side, the transition begins to the Schinkelkwartier, Hoofddorpplein, and Schinkelbuurt—lively areas with good restaurants and fine specialty shops. And to the south, Willemspark connects almost seamlessly to the Olympisch Kwartier and Stadionbuurt: wide streets, lots of light, nice terraces, and hidden favorites.
1075 BG Amsterdam
Juliette
In Amsterdam Zuid, you can enjoy breakfast and lunch in the sun at Juliette. The menu is based on fresh ingredients from local suppliers and is compiled daily based on what Available at the market. Think of dishes such as the Porco Rosso: mortadella, stracciatella cheese, Spanish guindilla peppers, and red pesto. For dinner or drinks, visit neighboring Bar Jules. The focus is on Southern European dishes such as pizzettas, pata negra, and roasted octopus.
1075 PD Amsterdam
LOT61 Coffee Roasters
Born in Sydney, raised in Brooklyn, and now firmly rooted in Amsterdam: LOT61 is anything but an average coffee shop. As an independent coffee roaster, the brand combines international flair with local craftsmanship. Slow coffee brewed with precision and care. The aesthetics are raw yet refined, the atmosphere informal and creative – a place where neighborhood and barista come together. With their B Corp certification, LOT61 also demonstrates that taste and Sustainability can go hand in hand.
1075 EL Amsterdam
Simply Fish
Simply Fish is located in Oud-Zuid on Koninginneweg. As the name suggests, the restaurant specializes in preparing fish. Jan and Francis Rijk previously owned a similar restaurant in Zeeland, a province well known for its delicious fish and seafood. The menu includes fruit de mer, shrimp croquettes, oysters, and their famous lobster bisque.
1075 BP Amsterdam
Ron Gastrobar (*)
At Ron Blaauw's first gastrobar in Amsterdam, a low-threshold atmosphere goes hand in hand with a Michelin star. Style and conviviality come together for a tasty experience. From details to amuse-bouches, cocktails, sandwiches on the table, new dishes, delicious wines and attentive service. Everything revolves around the credo: "going out to dinner should be a party". For BBQ lovers there is even a separate section on the menu. Of course, the classics, such as the spareribs "The Original," are not missing; a dish that will always remain.
1075 VW Amsterdam
Sotto Pizza
Sotto Pizza is one of the top 10 Italian restaurants in Amsterdam. The restaurant opened its doors in 2021, but has since become a household name among pizza lovers. The diverse selection reflects the skill of the chefs, but their classic Margherita is unbeatable. The interior resembles a modern Spanish tapas bar, with a pleasant atmosphere. At Sotto, you can enjoy a leisurely meal or quickly grab a pizza at the bar. The staff is helpful and friendly.
1075 XN Amsterdam
Blauw Restaurant
The Indonesian restaurant Blauw is located on the Amstelveenseweg. Contrary to what the name suggests, the entire interior is red. The rijsttafels at restaurant Blauw are identical at both locations (Amsterdam and Utrecht), but the rest of the menu is unique to each location. The chefs create their own ultimate authentic Indonesian experiences based on their own inspiration and influences.
1075 XT Amsterdam
Bonnie
Bonnie, a charming bistro located in Amsterdam-Zuid. At Bonnie, it's all about enjoyment; from tasty meals to carefully selected wines that are a perfect match. Bonnie's double cheeseburger is especially recommended. The ambiance ensures that you quickly feel at ease. A lunch here can easily turn into a cozy drink, making you feel like you don't want to leave at all.
1075 CZ Amsterdam
Tozi
TOZI means "a group of friends" in Venetian dialect, and you feel that Immediately you walk in. It's like stepping into one big family. The menu features a selection of small Venetian-inspired dishes to share, known as cicchetti. There is also an Italian wine list and a cocktail bar serving Italian gins and negronis.
1075 GD Amsterdam
Castell Zuid
Castell Zuid is the stylish new location of the iconic Amsterdam grill restaurant Castell, located on Valeriusstraat in Oud-Zuid. Where the original in the center is known for its no-nonsense steaks and late dinners, this location brings the same flavors in a refined setting. "Same taste, same vibe, different look" is the motto – and that's right: recognizable and yet completely new.
1071 HX Amsterdam
Visque Restaurant
Restaurant Visque is located on the beautiful corner of Amsterdam South, where fish plays the leading role. Our menu is flexible and depends on the daily choice for the freshest and most flavorful products. Chef Menno gives his own twist to simple French dishes, such as scallops, Dutch shrimp, slip sole and our famous Tuna Wellington.
1075 GH Amsterdam
Barolo
Bar Barolo brings the atmosphere of northern Italy to Valeriusstraat, in the heart of elegant Amsterdam-Zuid. The wine list is extensive and carefully curated, with Barolo as the obvious centerpiece. On the menu: homemade pasta, classic antipasti, and unpretentious seasonal dishes. The interior is warm and understated, as is the hospitality—everything here is done with care.
1054 LN Amsterdam
Adam
All dishes look beautiful, without excessive fuss. The flavors also make themselves felt: honest, exciting and balanced. We quickly come across a winner on our menu: perfectly cooked brill with a fresh, salty oyster vinaigrette, cucumber ribbons, almond cream, a bite of fried fish skin and a nori sauce. Equally tantalizing: a perfect piece of lamb from the Big Green Egg, prepared with chorizo and served with two delicious sauces.’
1071 MG Amsterdam
Carter
Carter is a modern brasserie in Amsterdam-Zuid where international classics are served with flair and finesse. Located on Valeriusstraat, this place feels like an elegant neighborhood café – informal, refined, and always welcoming. The menu features timeless dishes such as steak tartare, burrata, and lobster pasta, accompanied by a solid wine selection.
1054 KG Amsterdam
Focacceria
The Italian Valeria Lucente finds the Italian restaurants in Amsterdam surprisingly good, but she does miss the flavors of home. Especially the focaccia from her region. This delicate flatbread, about two centimeters thick, is airy, greasy and as soft as a cloud. Unlike focaccia from other Italian regions, the Genovese version does not have a crispy, but a soft top. This is because the dough is brushed with olive oil, water and salt before baking. Especially in Genoa, focaccia is enjoyed at every meal and that is now possible in Amsterdam.
1071 GZ Amsterdam
Batoni Khinkali
In the Netherlands, Georgian cuisine is unfortunately underrepresented, despite its rich and fascinating culinary heritage. Fortunately, Batoni Khinkali offers an introduction to this flavorful cuisine. This restaurant, founded by Georgian clarinetist Levan Tskhadadze, combines his love of music with his passion for cooking. Here, guests can enjoy Georgian classics such as khinkali, katschapuri and lobio, as well as a vegan and meat menu, all served with the characteristic Georgian hospitality.
1058 PD Amsterdam
Buno Coffee
1071 JH Amsterdam
Brasserie van Dam
Brasserie van Dam is known for its simple but effective formula: a concise menu with high-quality products, reasonable prices, good coffee, a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff.
1059 CV Amsterdam
Café Maurits
Café Maurits, located on Hoofddorpplein in Amsterdam-Zuid, offers a versatile experience as a bar, café, and restaurant. Contemporary dishes are served here, both à la carte and in a chef's menu, without frills such as foams or gels, but with the ambiance of a modern café. The corner building has a pleasant terrace and a bright, inviting atmosphere. The interior is tastefully decorated with many wood accents and mirrors that enlarge and illuminate the space. The refined menu, compiled by chef Boy van Rijn, offers diners an excellent culinary experience, complete with matching wines.
1071 GZ Amsterdam
Brasserie de Joffers
With a large terrace in the summer and winter, brasserie Joffers has been a well-known hotspot for 15 years, just a stone's throw from the Vondelpark and the Museum Quarter. If the sun is not shining, there is plenty of space inside - a space decorated with art and mirrored walls, which creates a homely atmosphere. The meeting place for the neighborhood is ideal for breakfast, lunch and dinner or simply for a nice cup of coffee.
1054 TL Amsterdam
Language Coffee
Taal Coffee is a coffee shop in Amsterdam-West, founded by Aleksandra Fedorova, who, after years of experience in the coffee world, wanted to create her own place centered around meeting people and paying attention. The name refers to the way taste and conversation connect people, and that idea is at the heart of the business. Here, it's all about carefully prepared espressos and filter coffee, with beans from small roasters and seasonal drinks. In addition to coffee, artisanal sweets are served in a space where locals like to stay and work or catch up.
1077 BG Amsterdam
Roberto's Restaurant Amsterdam
Roberto's should not be missing from the top ten Italian restaurants in Amsterdam. The restaurant is located in the Hilton hotel, where the iconic Italian cuisine has been filling the plates for 25 years. The restaurant revolves around pure and simple flavors with dishes such as thinly sliced eggplant, green farfalle pasta with lobster sauce and Lava cake.
1054 VL Amsterdam
Gorgo Lunchroom
Gorgo was founded by Rifat Ergor and Berkutay Gunel, who left Istanbul together nine years ago and realized their dream of owning their own business in Amsterdam. Ergor is an architect, Gunel a creative director, and that creative vision is evident in everything: from the lighting in the space to the approach to the cuisine. Their lunchroom is inspired by Anatolia and they describe it as 'neither East nor West', a place where Turkish, Arabic, Persian, Armenian, and Greek influences come together. The menu features unique dishes such as toasted sandwiches with kavurma, tahini, and honey, sesame cookies filled with different sesame varieties, and drinks such as sumac lemonade and hoşaf kombucha.
1058 KZ Amsterdam
Caffènation
Antwerp's most famous coffee roastery has now also opened its doors in the Schinkelbuurt of Amsterdam. The characteristic Belgian style of Caffenation is clearly recognizable in the design of the coffee bar, which consists of two floors and offers ample seating. Striking decorative pieces can be found everywhere, but the absolute eye-catcher upon entering is the impressive espresso machine from Kees van der Westen. The coffee, prepared with the Synesso MVP Hydra espresso machine, is of good quality and the atmosphere is relaxed. In addition, Caffenation offers two different types of fresh beans every week.
1054 TT Amsterdam
De Figurantenbar
A neighborhood pub as it should be; great service, nice people, good wines and lots of fun. Watching football with the local residents, participating in a pop quiz or listening to live music. The offer is diverse and cozy.
1059 CW Amsterdam
Nana coffee house
Nana Coffee House is located at Hoofddorpplein. The doors open whenever you fancy something tasty: an all-day breakfast, sandwiches, flatbreads or homemade sweets. The name refers to Nana, the owner's grandmother, for whom hospitality was always central. You feel it immediately: a place with character, where you come for quality and simple comfort. Open on weekdays from 08:00 to 16:00 (except Tuesday), and from 09:00 on weekends. A spot where the neighborhood finds each other in peace, taste and style.
1075 CV Amsterdam
Amsterdam Winery
Although they have been professionally tasting and selecting wine at Wijnhuis Amsterdam for more than 25 years, the wine house in Amsterdam is a fairly recent addition to their story. After numerous tasting sessions, they were so enthusiastic about the German wines that they were only too happy to give the wines a platform within the Netherlands. In May 2018, they opened Wijnhuis.Amsterdam, initially with only three of their own imports from Germany. They now represent an impressive range of twenty German winemakers, three from Austria and one from Luxembourg. When selecting the wines, elegance, drinkability, low alcohol percentages and minimal intervention in the production process are important.
1075 CE Amsterdam
Patisserie Linnick
Patisserie Linnick is run by the Amstelveen couple Linda and Nick. They met at Patisserie Holtkamp and fell in love. In 2014, their dream came true: their own patisserie where they can show their works of art to the public. With passion and craftsmanship, they work every day on the beautiful pastries and chocolate that they then display in the showcases. Patisserie Linnick works with high-quality ingredients such as Valrhona chocolate from Tain-l'Hermitage in Hermitage. You will not soon forget the delicious sweet treats from Patisserie Linnick.
1076 TB Amsterdam
Zikking & Son Butcher Shop
Butcher shop Zikking & Zoon is located on Marathonweg and is a household name in Amsterdam. Owner Robert Zikking was born and raised in Amsterdam and, together with his wife, started his own business in 1995 with passion and confidence. As he himself says: "It's not a fairy tale, but a delicious reality with a history." The filet americain is made using a recipe from an old Jordanian dam, and the nostalgic Amsterdam beef sausage is a must-try.
1054 JW Amsterdam
Chabrol
Chabrol has been a well-established wine store in Amsterdam and the surrounding area for more than thirty years. Chabrol has grown from a small neighborhood wine store into an importer of unique, organic wines. The wines are selected with a passion for wine and the story behind the wine. You can read about this in the newsletter, for example, where they write a story about each wine so that the real wine lover can find out everything. At Chabrol you can find a very wide variety of wines, both for a weekday wine and a wine for special moments.
1059 CT Amsterdam
Cow Project
With the motto "consciously indulgent," Cow Project butcher shop distinguishes Project from other butcher shops. It's all about enjoying delicious food in a conscious way. The origin of the meat is known, and the butcher takes great care to ensure the animals have a good life. For example, the lambs are from Texel, the chicken is from De Blije Ilper, and the pigs are Porc au Grain pigs. In addition to being a butcher shop, it is also a delicatessen with all kinds of delicious items such as tapas.
1066 VH Amsterdam
De Schuyt Butcher Shop
Butcher shop De Schuyt, named after its location on Cornelis Schuytstraat, has the parakeet as its symbol. Just like the parakeet, this distinctive butcher shop has its origins in the 1970s, and both have carved out a place for themselves in Amsterdam. Inspired by the parakeet, owner Evert Blauwendraat started his butcher shop with the idea of giving it a distinctive, personal, and special emblem that everyone could recognize. This family business with a rich history is the place to go for meat and delicacies.
1071 NL Amsterdam
Greengrocer Tom Ensink
Greengrocer Tom Ensink ensures that customers can choose from an exclusive range of honest products. In addition to vegetables, cheeses, fruits, nuts, oils, wines and meals are Sold - carefully selected for the true gourmets in the South. Specific wishes can be fulfilled when ordering products, but also for the fresh meals.
1059 CW Amsterdam
Nuts & Delights
& Cheese should actually be in the title because that's what they have here. Not only are the freshly roasted nuts amazing, but the huge selection of cheeses is also delicious, and they have a cheese for every occasion. Another nice touch: they deliver via bicycle courier Peddler, which is very sustainable!
1075 NC Amsterdam
Perfume Lounge
At the 'Perfume lounge', they focus on creating and advising on fragrances for companies and organizations and what scent can add to a brand or organization. In addition, they have a store with an assortment of the most special perfumes in the world, where they also give personal fragrance advice. Advice for on the skin or in the house. According to the experts, scent adds something that is not visible and tangible. You can use scent in different ways in a space. It starts, of course, with the fact that it should not smell negative. There are quite a few spaces where you smell the sewer or sanitary facilities, where there has been a lot of smoking or where the extraction is not good and it smells like food. The most simple way of scent in the house is that it smells clean. Many people associate cleaning or detergent with a clean, tidy and well-kept house. In addition, you can turn on the ambiance. Just like with light and music, you can soften or strengthen the atmosphere. You can make it smell very homely or very modern. Rural or artistic. Or very minimalist or intimate.
1075 CW Amsterdam
Teunis Veenema
Teunis Veenema is a gem in the heart of Amsterdam-Zuid. Since 2009, you can visit Koninginneweg for the most beautiful bouquets and plants. Teunis Veenema is not your average flower shop, but a shop that works with you to achieve the best results, whether for private or business purposes. Their website also offers the option of ordering fully personalized bouquets for yourself or others.
1075 XH Amsterdam
DIS Studio
DIS Studio is a design agency, interior store, and showroom all in one. DIS Studio was founded by Daniela Germone and Dis Abhelakh. They both worked for the Italian interior brand Boffi and have been co-owners of their own studio in Amsterdam since 2004. You can visit DIS Studio for interior design for your entire house; from kitchens to chairs to table lamps. Although Daniele and Dis like to work with sleek Italian designs and natural stone, small imperfections are not avoided. According to them, these small imperfections create a warm and homely atmosphere. The DIS Studio showroom exclusively displays products from Italian brands. It is also the only place in the Netherlands that sells products from the Boffi brand.
1054 MC Amsterdam
Eginstill
Eginstill is a unique collective specializing in interior design. The large team of members, from craftsmen to creative director Frans Pahlplatz, enthusiastically provides enthusiasts with workshops where all interior design wishes can be realized. These processes are made as sustainable as possible by using recyclable materials such as steel and wood from a family business in Finland. Eginstill aims to make all projects as unique as their customers, and they do this with passion. You can also come here for a delicious cup of coffee, and there is plenty to look at while you enjoy it!
1054 TS Amsterdam
Studio 3000
Studio 3000 is a multifunctional creative space. The studio was founded in 2020 by Nurcan Tuzkapan and is located along the Derde Kostverlorenkade. The studio displays, Sold rents designer furniture. In addition to vintage designer furniture, you will also find a photography studio here. Nurcan keeps her followers up to date on her latest finds and planned events on her Instagram channel. If you are interested in creative projects and design, we definitely recommend keeping an eye on Nurcan's platform.
1071 JC Amsterdam
Menno Kroon
Menno Kroon's exuberant and atmospheric display window showcases such enchanting and special flowers that you simply have to take a look inside. Budding love, delight, the inevitable farewell. Each bouquet from Menno Kroon gives meaning to a special moment. Nothing is too crazy for them at Menno Kroon, and you can go there for the most special and diverse bouquets.
1058 AD Amsterdam
Cocoon house Amsterdam
Cocoon house Amsterdam is the place where you discover 20th-century antiques, design pieces, and art. The focus is on unique and well-designed pieces that can be used to create stylish and individual interiors. The collector, Sander van Eyck, is an interior and product designer. He has his own collection of furniture and lighting under the name: 'Made by Sander'.