Turkish food in Amsterdam: Exploring flavours and finding hidden gems

Amsterdam is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, prominently reflected in its culinary landscape. Among the many international cuisines the city offers, Turkish food holds a special place. From beloved kebab spots to refined dining experiences, Amsterdam’s Turkish culinary scene caters to every palate.
Curious about our experience, jump directly to it.

A taste of Turkey in the Dutch capital

Turkish cuisine is synonymous with hospitality, communal dining, and bold, delightful flavours. In Amsterdam, you’ll encounter a range of Turkish eateries, from casual takeaways to elegant restaurants, each sharing a dedication to grilled meats, aromatic herbs, rich mezes, and welcoming atmospheres.

Turkish cultural experiences in Amsterdam

Beyond food, immerse yourself in Turkish culture through various authentic experiences:

• Dappermarkt (Turkish Market): Each week, Amsterdam’s Dappermarkt in East Amsterdam hosts Turkish stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, olives, cheeses, and traditional baked goods perfect for exploring authentic tastes.
• Turkish Music Nights: Cultural venues like Mezrab and Tropentheater host occasional Turkish folk and classical music nights, bringing the rich musical traditions of Turkey to life.
• Authentic Turkish Shops and Bakeries: Visit Amsterdam Oost and De Baarsjes to discover authentic bakeries serving simit (Turkish bagels) and freshly made baklava, or pick up imported ingredients to create Turkish dishes at home.

Popular Turkish restaurants in Amsterdam

• Leeman Döner: A local favourite in West Amsterdam, perfect for quick, satisfying döner kebabs.
• Ali Ocakbaşı: Offering beautiful canal views and a refined dining experience, Ali Ocakbaşı combines traditional Turkish grilling with modern culinary techniques.

But if you’re after something contemporary with refined Mediterranean flair, there’s one place that truly stands out.

Our experience at Maydanoz

We visited Maydanoz a Turkish restaurant in Amsterdam in June 2025, located near De Pijp in Amsterdam Zuid. It offers a fresh and elegant Mediterranean dining experience deeply rooted in Turkish culinary tradition.

First Impressions:
The atmosphere immediately set a welcoming tone, elegantly designed yet warm and inviting, perfect for romantic evenings or group celebrations.

The Menu:
Maydanoz’s menu centres around sharing dishes inspired by Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Our meal began with flavourful mezes like roasted red pepper with walnuts, creamy hummus, and grilled halloumi with pomegranate molasses.
For mains, we delighted in expertly grilled sea bass and beautifully seasoned lamb köfte, served alongside fluffy bread and olive oil. The dessert was a semolina cake with orange blossom, which was a delightful finale.

Service and Experience:
The attentive yet unobtrusive staff offered insightful menu recommendations and excellent wine pairings. The meal pacing allowed us to savour each course fully.

Is Maydanoz Worth It?:
Absolutely. While it’s slightly pricier than casual eateries, Maydanoz delivers exceptional value through quality ingredients and a memorable dining experience.  We’d certainly revisit, especially for special occasions or to show friends this hidden gem. Since it is:

• Ideal For: Couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a sophisticated dining experience.
• Not Ideal For: Those looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable, though the atmosphere is more adult-oriented.
• Touristy or Local? A delightful blend of both, appealing equally to locals and visitors seeking refined cuisine.