De Waag - Image 1
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De Waag Amsterdam

4.2
·5k reviews·Leiden, Netherlands

Dine in a 15th-century Amsterdam city gate, illuminated by hundreds of candles for a magical, historic experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Romantic candlelight ambiance

CrowdHigh
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De Waag - Image 1

De Waag Amsterdam

Best Time

Evenings

Romantic candlelight ambiance

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dine in a 15th-century Amsterdam city gate, illuminated by hundreds of candles for a magical, historic experience.

4.2
(5k reviews)

"Dinner by 300 candles inside a 15th-century gate, truly magical!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Your Table

Reservations are essential, especially for dinner, to guarantee a spot in this popular historic restaurant.

🕯️ Romantic Setting

Experience the unique ambiance with hundreds of candles creating a magical dining atmosphere.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Ambiance

Historic Ambiance

Inside the building

Dine within a 15th-century former city gate, illuminated by hundreds of candles for a truly magical experience.

Instagram+1
Nieuwmarkt Location

Nieuwmarkt Location

Nieuwmarkt Square

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Nieuwmarkt square, with the option to sit outside by the canal.

InstagramReddit
Sharing Plates

Sharing Plates

Restaurant Menu

Savor delicious sharing plates and traditional meals, perfect for a communal dining experience.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Prime Time

De Waag is a popular spot, especially for dinner. Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly for evenings and weekends, to secure your table in this historic setting. Instagram

Embrace the Ambiance

This 15th-century building offers a unique dining experience. Expect a romantic atmosphere, often enhanced by candlelight, making it ideal for special occasions. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Romantic candlelight ambiance
Crowd
High
When
Weekends
Why
Lively square atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays (lunch)
Why
More relaxed dining
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“Master of puppets” #marchingband #music #show #leiden #pop #masterofpuppets #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #master #vlaardingen
@kunstengenoegen
406K likes • 4.3M views

🎯 Book Your Table

Reservations are essential, especially for dinner, to guarantee a spot in this popular historic restaurant. Instagram

🕯️ Romantic Setting

Experience the unique ambiance with hundreds of candles creating a magical dining atmosphere. Instagram+1

💥 K&G Leiden 🇳🇱 Marching Band from Netherlands 🤘🏽 Rocking a crispy #Metallica 🎸 cover of Master of the Puppets 🔥 Rock and bands! 🥁 🎥: Max Karreman #marchingband #drumandbuglecorps #marchingtrend #metallicacover #music #rockandroll #instagram #drumcorps #netherlands #europe #love #art #instagood #band #international #worldwide #parade #streetparade #follow #viral_video #trendingvideo #reelsinstagra...
@marchingtrend
20.3K likes • 592.4K views
A perfect way to end a day wondering the streets of Amsterdam is at In de Waag ✨🥰 #IndeWaag#Amsterdam#Dinner#Lunch#VisitAmsterdam#Restaurant #Food#Historic #FoodLover #Dinner #Delicious #Yummy#Breakfast#Brunch#Dinner#Amsterdam #Beer#Wine#Cocktails #DateNight
indewaag
105 likes • 6.1K views

🌳 Outdoor Seating

Enjoy canal-side dining on the terrace during warmer months for a lovely al fresco experience. Reddit

🍽️ Dietary Needs

Inform staff about allergies or dietary restrictions; while they try to accommodate, options may be limited. Reddit

🏰 De Waag used to be surrounded by water and was a former city gate of Amsterdam. Nowadays, this building that looks like a castle sits in the middle of the famous Nieuwmarkt and hosts a lovely restaurant. 💜 Follow @badasstours for more stories from Amsterdam! Badass Tours is a walking tours company in Amsterdam who tells the city's hidden stories, with a focus on BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Jewish and wome...
badasstours
45 likes • 856 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Your Table

Reservations are essential, especially for dinner, to guarantee a spot in this popular historic restaurant. Instagram

🕯️ Romantic Setting

Experience the unique ambiance with hundreds of candles creating a magical dining atmosphere. Instagram+1

🌳 Outdoor Seating

Enjoy canal-side dining on the terrace during warmer months for a lovely al fresco experience. Reddit

🍽️ Dietary Needs

Inform staff about allergies or dietary restrictions; while they try to accommodate, options may be limited. Reddit

🚶 Explore Nieuwmarkt

The restaurant is located in the vibrant Nieuwmarkt square, perfect for exploring before or after your meal. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

De Waag offers a truly unique dining experience within a historic 15th-century building, praised for its romantic candlelight ambiance and canal-side seating. While the food is generally considered delicious, with standout sharing plates, some diners have noted slow service and limited accommodation for specific dietary needs. InstagramReddit

"I was here for a post thesis dinner with my classmates, supervisors, and alumni. We had a 5 course walking dinner where we stand/sit and mingle while the waitresses bring the food to us or put them in the table so we can just grab and talk.
It was a brilliant concept.

The interior of the restaurant was interesting, the staff were friendly and helpful. They warned me about the gelatine in the dessert so I don’t eat it (I can’t eat pork). For change I asked them for other dishes and they offered me an ice cream"

Ayu Pravindias

"We tried waag lemonade I really enjoyed it(a bit sweet)
We also had the nachos, which were tasty too.
We sat outside by the canal, and the atmosphere was lovely.
Then we went inside and I was honestly amazed — the place is so big, I almost got lost!
I’m definitely coming back here for dinner sometime, I’m really curious to see what it’s like in the evening."

Hümeyra Karslı

"Lovely restaurant with nice ambiance. Food was good but too much wait time for food service. Staff were busy and less attentive."

Santosh Patra

What People Like

Historic ambiance
Candlelight dining
Canal-side terrace

What People Dislike

Slow service
Limited dietary options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

De Waag is centrally located in Amsterdam on Nieuwmarkt square. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and metro lines that stop near Nieuwmarkt station. Walking from Centraal Station is also a pleasant option, taking about 15-20 minutes. Instagram

Driving in central Amsterdam can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi. If you do drive, look for parking garages near Nieuwmarkt. Reddit

The Nieuwmarkt area is well-served by public transport. Tram lines 4, 14, and 24 stop nearby, and the Metro lines 51, 53, and 54 have a station at Nieuwmarkt. Instagram

Yes, cycling is a popular way to get around Amsterdam. There are bike racks available in the vicinity of Nieuwmarkt, but be aware that they can get busy. Reddit

De Waag is situated in the heart of Amsterdam, close to attractions like the Red Light District, the Jewish Cultural Quarter, and various museums. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

De Waag is a restaurant and cafe, so no tickets are required for entry. However, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to secure a table. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours. Instagram

As it's a functioning restaurant and cafe, there is no separate entrance fee to enter De Waag. You pay for your food and drinks. Instagram

While primarily a dining establishment, you might be able to pop in for a drink at the bar, but it's advisable to check with the staff, especially during busy periods. Instagram

For dinner, especially on weekends or during peak season, booking several days or even weeks in advance is advisable to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

De Waag offers traditional Dutch meals, sharing plates, and desserts. They are known for their flavorful dishes and generous portions. InstagramReddit

While specific menus can change, they typically offer a range of dishes. It's best to inquire directly about vegetarian or vegan options when booking or upon arrival. Reddit

Reviewers often praise dishes like the salad, steak tartare, and their signature 'Waag lemonade'. Sharing plates are also a popular choice. Reddit

Absolutely! The historic interior, often lit by hundreds of candles, creates a very romantic and intimate atmosphere, making it a popular choice for date nights. Instagram+2

De Waag is considered mid-range to slightly upscale, reflecting its historic location and quality of food. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for a main course. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, De Waag is incredibly photogenic, both inside and out. The historic architecture, candlelight, and canal views offer numerous photo opportunities. Instagram+1

For atmospheric shots, evenings when the candles are lit are spectacular. During the day, the exterior and the surrounding Nieuwmarkt square are great for capturing the historic setting. Instagram

Yes, guests are generally welcome to take photos, especially to capture the unique ambiance. However, be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

The front of the building with its distinctive architecture, the canal views from the terrace, and the candlelit interior are all prime photo locations. Instagram+1

Low-light photography, romantic portraits, and architectural shots work exceptionally well here due to the unique lighting and historic setting. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

De Waag can be a unique experience for families, offering a taste of history alongside a meal. The spacious interior might be interesting for children to explore, and the outdoor seating by the canal provides a pleasant spot. Reddit While the romantic candlelight ambiance is geared towards adults, the sharing plates can be a fun way for families to try different dishes together. Reddit

It's worth noting that the dining experience, especially in the evening, is quite formal and focused on ambiance. For younger children, consider visiting during lunch hours when it might be more relaxed. Be sure to inquire about kid-friendly menu options or if they can adapt dishes for children's preferences. Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

De Waag is an exceptional choice for couples seeking a romantic dining experience in Amsterdam. The 15th-century building, illuminated by hundreds of candles, creates an incredibly intimate and magical atmosphere. Instagram+2 The historic setting combined with delicious food and the option for canal-side seating makes it perfect for date nights or special anniversaries. InstagramReddit

Booking a table in advance is crucial to secure the best spots, especially for an evening meal. Enjoying a leisurely dinner here, surrounded by history and soft candlelight, is sure to create lasting memories. Instagram+1

💰 Budget Travelers

While De Waag offers a unique historic dining experience, it leans towards the mid-range to upscale price point. Main courses typically range from €20-€30, and sharing plates can add up. Reddit For budget-conscious travelers, consider visiting for lunch, which might offer slightly more affordable options or a less formal dining experience. Instagram Alternatively, you could enjoy a drink at the bar and soak in the atmosphere without committing to a full meal. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

De Waag, meaning 'the weigh house,' is one of Amsterdam's oldest non-religious buildings, dating back to the 15th century. Originally serving as a city gate and a weighing house for goods, it has witnessed centuries of Amsterdam's vibrant history. Instagram+1 It was part of the city's defensive walls and played a crucial role in trade and commerce. The building's distinctive architecture, with its imposing towers, reflects its historical significance as a fortified structure. Instagram

Over the centuries, De Waag has served various purposes, including housing a fire watch, a museum, and even a laboratory. Its transformation into a restaurant and cafe has preserved its historical charm while making it accessible to the public. The building's enduring presence in the heart of Nieuwmarkt square makes it a constant reminder of Amsterdam's rich past. Instagram+1

Interestingly, the famous painter Rembrandt van Rijn is said to have created his groundbreaking painting, 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp,' at the age of 26, which was a significant step in his career. Instagram This connection further solidifies De Waag's place in Amsterdam's cultural heritage. Visiting De Waag is not just about dining; it's an immersive experience into the city's historical narrative.

The Ambiance: Candlelight and Romance

The dining experience at De Waag is renowned for its incredibly romantic and atmospheric setting. The restaurant is famously lit by hundreds of candles, creating a warm, intimate glow that transports diners back in time. Instagram+2 This unique lighting is a signature feature, making it a popular choice for couples and special occasions. The historic interior of the 15th-century building, with its exposed brickwork and architectural details, further enhances the enchanting ambiance. Instagram

Whether you're seated inside the grand hall or on the terrace overlooking the canal, the candlelight creates a magical backdrop for your meal. InstagramReddit The atmosphere is often described as cozy, charming, and unforgettable. It’s this distinctive blend of history and romantic lighting that sets De Waag apart from other dining establishments in Amsterdam. Instagram+1

Many visitors highlight the candlelight dinner as a highlight of their Amsterdam trip, noting how it elevates the entire dining experience. It’s an ideal spot if you're looking for a memorable evening meal that combines delicious food with an extraordinary setting. Instagram+1

Navigating Dietary Needs

When dining at De Waag, it's important to communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies clearly to the staff. While the restaurant aims to be accommodating, some guests have reported limitations. Reddit For instance, one reviewer mentioned that the restaurant couldn't offer many alternatives for lactose intolerance beyond serving sauces separately. Reddit

It's advisable to discuss your specific needs when making a reservation or as soon as you are seated. The staff are generally friendly and helpful, and they will do their best to guide you through the menu or suggest suitable options. Reddit Some dishes, like the nachos and lemonade, have been positively reviewed, and the staff's willingness to warn about ingredients like gelatin shows attentiveness. Reddit

For those with strict dietary requirements, it might be beneficial to review the menu online beforehand or call ahead to confirm available options. This proactive approach can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable dining experience at this historic Amsterdam gem. Reddit

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