5. Toscanini

One of, if not THE best
This is truly one of the best dining experiences in all of Amsterdam and is a nice break from French and Indonesian restaurants which seem to overwhelm Amsterdam.. The menu which changes regularly uses the freshest ingredients and is the pinnacle of great Mediterranean fare. The service is friendly, inviting and attentive, which is a rarity in the Amsterdam restaurant scene. The daily antipasto is a must, as are reservations.

We spend Christmases in Amsterdam and two years ago we came across this restaurant on the Web when our favorite was booked up on Christmas night. What a find! The experience was so wonderful that we went back last year. Unfortunately, this year they are not open on Christmas Day but we have booked for Christmas Eve. On our visits, the staff were friendly, great fun and very cheerfully attentive. The food was exquisite, especially the wonderful Italian desserts! All in all, a very good restaurant.