6 Best Restaurants in Leidseplein, Amsterdam

Famous for their full English breakfast, cocktails with a twist, and homemade Irish soda bread, Greenwoods Keizersgracht dishes out hearty brunch specials daily with plenty of vegetarian options, too. Their fun, seasonal menu includes American-style pancakes, stacked sandwiches, and decadent hot chocolate flavors. Dine inside or snag a seat on their sun-drenched terrace for a canal view. Still hungry? Their original location is still located at Single 103.

Although thousands of buildings in Amsterdam are designated historic monuments, few have interiors as stunning as the facade. This classic grand café is an Art Deco extravaganza with stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and stylish leaded-glass lamps with a warm glow. While the brasserie-style food can't match the exalted surroundings, it earns good marks for a scenic high tea or afternoon bite. 

Amsterdam isn't generally a city where food comes quickly, but FEBO is an exception. This Dutch chain of restaurants functions like an old-school automat, with walls of prepared dishes displayed behind glass. Simply press a button and insert your money, vending machine–style, and you'll get your meal, be it french fries, burgers, or Indonesian croquettes. The food is far from gourmet, but it's a Dutch experience to be sampled at least once—and one of a few options if hunger strikes past midnight.

Inspired by a memorable trip to Guadalajara, Mexico, the owners of this family-run restaurant have created an authentic and welcoming atmosphere complete with imported colorful tiles, hand-painted ceramics, and an outdoor terrace for warmer days. All the usual favorites are here, such as crispy tortilla chips with fresh guacamole and homemade salsa, hefty burritos, and flavorful bowls filled with veggies, rice and your choice of protein (halal and vegan options, too). And, of course, there's a range of tacos to choose from, including chicken, fish, shrimp, steak, and weekly specials. Located close to Leidseplein, expect the energy to get lively and last late into the evenings, especially since they offer dozens of mezcal and tequilas. Next door, their sister location De Margarita Bar has DJs on Friday and Saturday night.

This international chain of modern Japanese noodle shops got its start more than 20 years ago in London. Pop in for a fresh, fast, and fairly inexpensive meal, hearty bowls of noodles and broth, supplemented with your choice of meats, fish, and/or vegetables. Further sustenance comes in the form of fruit and vegetable shakes. There are other Amsterdam locations near Rembrantplein, in Central Station, and in the World Trade Center.