A cozy, distinctive cheese-fondue restaurant with excellent cheese and welcoming service, but small portions, tight seating, time limits, and occasional operational lapses make reservations and budget expectations important.
Restaurant Smelt delivers solid food quality anchored by well-executed fondues, particularly its Swiss, truffle, and specialty cheese offerings, but inconsistent heating and accompaniment preparation prevent a stronger showing. Service knowledge shines when staff guide diners through the fondue experience, yet attentiveness wavers during busy periods. The intimate Nine Streets location and charming decor create genuine appeal, though variable execution across core dimensions keeps it from approaching grade A territory.
Restaurant Smelt is a small, candlelit cheese specialist in Amsterdam’s atmospheric Nine Streets, with a convivial, intimate feel that suits a chilly evening or a date. Diners often describe it as cozy and welcoming, while the best visits feature staff who patiently explain the fondue choices and recommend wine. The catch is that the compact room, busy booking calendar, and occasional time-slot pressure can make the experience feel less leisurely than the fondue concept suggests. The cooking is focused rather than broad: this is primarily about regional cheese fondues, from Dutch and Swiss to Italian, French, truffle, and habanero versions. The cheeses are widely praised for richness and balance, and the menu also offers credible alternatives such as ravioli, a cheese burger, duck, salads, and several vegetarian starters. Expect a premium specialty meal rather than a bargain; the current fondue prices sit around €27-29.50 before starters, desserts, sides, drinks, and possible supplements. Families are welcome, and one review specifically reports that young children were accommodated with a pasta dish; the menu also has a burger, ravioli, bread, potatoes, and approachable desserts. Still, the fondue-centered format and compact seating may not work for very picky eaters, so confirm alternatives when booking. Gluten-free diners have reported positive experiences, but gluten-free bread may cost extra and its quality received mixed feedback.
Area vibe: Picturesque canal-side shopping and dining district popular with tourists and locals.
Safety: Generally safe with good evening foot traffic though pickpocketing can occur in busy spots.
What's nearby: In the heart of the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) between the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht and Herengracht canals near major shops, museums and tram connections.