Seemor
Cafe De KlosBWorth Trying
Kerkstraat 41, 1017 GB Amsterdam, Netherlands
· Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (4480 reviews)
Outdoor seating
Iconic Amsterdam ribs spot with smoky meats, lively pub energy, long waits, and polarizing service; go for ribs and beer, not pampering.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Cafe De Klos delivers solid neighborhood dining anchored by excellent smoked ribs and authentic canal-belt charm, but inconsistent execution across the menu and variable service tone—particularly at the door—prevent a higher grade. This is a classic Amsterdam institution worth experiencing for its signature ribs and lively pub energy, though expect tight quarters, waits, and occasional brusqueness alongside genuine warmth once seated.
Restaurant Summary
Inside this narrow canal-belt grill, the air smells of smoke and sizzling fat, the room feels warm and bustling, and servers move at a clip. One diner summed it up: "Put your name down, grab a beer across the street, and get ready for ribs." Expect lively pub energy and the occasional brusque welcome alongside genuine friendliness at the table. The cooking is old-school and fire-forward—no tricks, just meat over flame. Smoked and classic ribs lead the charge, with steaks, lamb, and a few throwback starters like escargot and onion soup. It suits those who crave hearty grill flavors and big portions more than seekers of refinement; order ribs for the surest win and pair with a local beer. Families can do well here thanks to familiar dishes like ribs, baked potatoes, and chicken, though the space is tight and waits can be long. There is no kids menu, but simple sides and straightforward meats help; consider early hours for a calmer, kid-friendly window.
At a Glance
- Smoky, tender ribs are the signature and crowd favorite
- Cozy grillhouse vibe with lively bar energy
- No reservations and long waits; staging in pub across the street
- Service tone at the door can be brusque or confrontational
- Best results when ordering ribs over premium steaks
What Sets It Apart
- signature_smoked_ribs
- grillside_seating_views
- companion_pub_waitlist_flow
What People Love
- The deep smoke and char on the ribs
- Generous portions that feel celebratory
- Watching the grill from close seats
- Pairing hearty meats with local beers
Points of Concern
- Door host interactions can feel rude or sarcastic for some guests; table service usually friendlier
- Long waits and no reservations; expect to wait in the pub across the street
- Quality variance reported on non-rib steaks and occasional dry rib batches
- Pricing is premium for the area, especially steaks
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€45-62 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Focus on ribs for best value-performance, add baked potato (€5.65), and choose a local beer; consider onion soup to start.
Perfect For
- Meat-centric nights with friends
- Casual date over ribs and beer
- Solo bite at the bar after sightseeing
- Travelers seeking an Amsterdam grill classic
Location Insights
Area: Central canal belt street with bars, boutiques, and steady tourist-local mix; lively evenings.
Safety: Generally safe, busy pedestrian area; typical city nuisances possible but well-patrolled.
Nearby: Near Leidseplein nightlife and museums; companion bar across the street used for waitlist staging.
JordaanThe Jordaan is a trendy and picturesque neighborhood known for its narrow streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. It has a relaxed yet lively dining scene with a mix of traditional Dutch eateries and contemporary restaurants, attracting both locals and visitors seeking authentic and intimate dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–23:00
Tuesday16:00–23:00
Wednesday16:00–23:00
Thursday16:00–23:00
Friday14:00–23:00
Saturday14:00–23:00
Sunday14:00–23:00
Available: Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →