*Updated in 2021

DISCOVER THE BEST OF AMSTERDAM EAST

Welcome to Amsterdam Oost—Venture over the Amstel River to explore a diverse neighborhood, evident in both its residents and its architectural styles. From grand 19th-century designs in the Oud-Oost (Old East) to modern high-rise flats along the Eastern Docklands and lots of student housing in between.

Want more? Browse all my Amsterdam City Guides or check out my seasonal ‘City Guide’ for iAmsterdam Magazine. Scroll to the bottom of this page for a link to my Amsterdam Oost City Guide Map and explore on your own!

CULTURE IN AMSTERDAM OOST

Studio K A student-run, non-profit cultural center offering a little bit of everything—two cinemas, a restaurant, bar and hostel, in the heart of Oost’s Indische Buurt. Surrounded by a large terrace, the century-old brick building (a formal school) hosts festivals, seminars, club nights, plus jazz nights every last Wednesday of the month.

Tropenmuseum is housed in an impressive building. It highlights stories of shared human experiences and displays anthropological treasures from cultures around the globe.

Oosterpark leafy green neighborhood park is an English-style garden that’s home to a variety of multicultural festivals each summer.

Artis Zoo Founded in 1838, this historic city park is home to various species of animals, plants, and trees. Highlights include a planetarium, aquarium, tropical butterfly pavilion, and Micropia, the world's only microbe museum.

Hortus Botanicus Founded in 1638, this is of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. A city oasis with a large greenhouse and plenty of unique flora and fauna.

EXPLORE OFF THE BEATEN PATH IN AMSTERDAM OOST

Curious about unexpected locations? Browse bespoke art and illustrations at De Werkwinkel or enjoy a vegan dinner and live music at Plantage Dokhuis. Near the Eastern Docklands? Tuck into the Museum Perron Oost, the smallest museum in the world.

WHERE TO DRINK IN AMSTERDAM OOST

Bar Basquiat Inspired by its namesake, this bar-restaurant boasts a bold New York City-style interior along with a sunny corner terrace, perfect for the summer season. Open from early till late, their menu dishes out Indonesian fusion fare like French toast with bananas and shredded coconut, and street food like fried nasi and spicy satay.

Distillery 't Nieuwe Diep At the far eastern side of the Indische Buurt the busy Javastraat ends just as the Flevopark begins. A stroll walk inside, you’ll spot a quaint cottage nestled in the park. Dating back to the 1880s, this former pumping station turned tasting room offers more than 100 jenevers and liqueurs with a lakeside view.

Rum Barrel This Caribbean-themed tiki bar shakes up tropical cocktails, with more than 200 types of rum on offer (no surprise there). The dimly lit interior emits an old pirate's tavern vibe, and after a bountiful rum tasting you might starting feeling like a drunken sailor too. Luckily, there’s lots to plunder from the menu—tasty, tapas like spicy voodoo shrimp and pineapple quesadillas.

WHERE TO EAT IN AMSTERDAM OOST

Roootin Middle Eastern-inspired brunch and lunch fare including dishes like avocado toast topped with pomegranate seeds, and sweet orange-blossom pancakes, are served in a tropically decorated interior, which seems fitting given its proximity to Oosterpark.

IJs Van Oost Cool off with creamy, dreamy scoops of ice cream at this neighborhood favorite along the Javastraat.

Pure Markt Arrive at Park Frankendael with an appetite on the last Sunday of the month, when dozens of vendors set up shop to offer tasty treats, from local honey and cupcakes to BBQ, oysters and much more. Sip and savor, browse handmade goods and accessories while live bands perform. This family-friendly event takes place weekly, rotating through various locations including Amsterdamse Bos and Amstelpark.

Dappermarkt Running through the multicultural heart of Oost, this open-air market has been a neighborhood staple since it was designated a market street in 1910. As one of the busiest markets in the city, hundreds of vendors sell everything from exotic ingredients to everyday groceries, textiles and, of course, tulips when they’re in season.

Dignita Brunch at the easter location of this socially conscious eatery nestled in a garden oasis near the Hermitage Museum. Check out their other spot by Vondelpark in Amsterdam Zuid.

De Kas Inside Park Frankendel, this chic and sustainable restaurant serves locally sourced fare mixed with fresh produce grown onsite, served inside a greenhouse.

The Lobby Fizeaustraat Since 2016, this upscale restaurant in the lobby of Hotel V is well known for offering 'food, drinks and gezelligheid.’ Their menu rotates seasonally, serving three meals plus brunch and Sunday roast.

Reggae Rita Amsterdam’s best Jamaican-owned restaurant serves island favorites like jerk chicken, akee and salt fish, and patties for dine-in or takeaway. They also have Ting and Ital options too (IKYKY)!

WHERE TO SHOP IN AMSTERDAM OOST

Hello Pansy This bright and cheerful creative space is a ceramics studio and concept shop selling handmade wares, illustrations, and other “cute things for nice people” along the lively Czaar Peterstraat.

&Klevering Oost Vibrant pops of color fill the interior at this funky, design-focused boutique. With multiple locations throughout the city, this local favorite sells charming accessories, gifts, and homeware crafted by Dutch and international brands.

Het Faire Oosten Conscious shoppers can pick up artisanal crafts, worldly gifts, and eco-friendly decor at this concept shop on the far-east side of Amsterdam. Browse an extensive collection of fair fashion and brands with sustainable craftsmanship and social initiatives.

My Amsterdam Guides are always evolving alongside the city itself.
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