Posted on: September 30, 2025

Majestic Amsterdam Review: A Brutally Honest Look at This Dam Square Restaurant

Majestic Amsterdam on Dam Square is central and popular. But is this place any good? Curious what to expect? Discover reviews, menu highlights, prices, and best visit times to plan a smooth, satisfying stop.

Snapshot & vibe: what Majestic Amsterdam is, its atmosphere, and why it stands out

Majestic Amsterdam is a lively restaurant and bar right by Dam Square. It blends grand café style with an easygoing, modern feel. Big windows, warm lights, and a spacious terrace make it great for people-watching.

The vibe is friendly and unpretentious. You can come dressed casual after sightseeing or a bit sharper before a night out. Staff are welcoming and used to helping first-time visitors to Amsterdam.

It works for quick drinks, relaxed meals, and longer hangouts. The menu covers crowd-pleasers, so mixed groups are comfortable. Music stays background-level, which makes conversation easy.

Quick takeaways

• Large indoor space + heated terrace

• Crowd: travelers, locals, pre-party groups

• Atmosphere: upbeat but relaxed

• Great for first meal in Amsterdam

Location on Dam Square & getting there: tram/metro stops, walking directions, terrace/street-view ambience

Majestic sits on Dam Square, the city’s central plaza. You’re steps from the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk. The terrace faces the square, so there’s always something to watch.

Getting there is simple. The Rokin metro stop (Noord/Zuidlijn) is a short walk. Multiple tram lines stop around Dam and Rokin. From Amsterdam Central Station, you can walk in about 10 minutes.

The area is flat and well-lit at night. Streets are busy but safe, with clear signs. Bike lanes are everywhere—watch for cyclists when crossing.

How to reach Majestic

• Metro: Rokin (M52) → 5–7 min walk

• Tram: Lines that stop at Dam or Rokin → 2–4 min walk

• On foot: 10 min from Amsterdam Centraal

• By bike: Lock at public racks on or near the square

Menu highlights: must-try Dutch classics and signature mains; veggie/vegan/gluten-free options

The menu focuses on accessible Dutch and European dishes. Expect steaks, burgers, pastas, and seasonal specials. Portions are generous, and plating is simple and neat.

For local flavor, look for Dutch cheese platters, bitterballen, pea soup in colder months, and apple pie. International mains like grilled salmon or a classic schnitzel keep everyone happy. Kids’ options are usually available.

Veggie eaters get solid choices like roasted veggie pasta, salads, and soups. Ask for vegan swaps where possible. If you’re gluten-free, tell your server; they’ll guide you to safer picks.

Popular picks at Majestic

• Bitterballen with mustard

• Dutch cheese board with chutney

• Schnitzel oder steak frites

• Grilled salmon with lemon butter

• Apple pie with whipped cream

Drinks & specials: local beers, Dutch genever, cocktails, wines, and zero-alcohol picks

Drinks are a strong suit here. You’ll find Dutch and Belgian draft beers, easy-drinking lagers, and a few craft picks. A glass of genever (the ancestor of gin) offers a classic Amsterdam taste.

Cocktails cover the hits: G&Ts, spritzes, sours, and seasonal twists. The wine list leans approachable, with by-the-glass options for red, white, and rosé. Zero-alcohol beers, mocktails, and soft drinks keep non-drinkers included.

Happy-hour style promos appear at times, especially on quieter afternoons. Ask about daily specials when you’re seated. Staff will offer a pairing suggestion if you share what you’re eating.

Drink ideas to try:

• Local lager on draft

• Genever neat or in a cocktail

• Aperol spritz before dinner

• Zero-alcohol beer or a house mocktail

Price range & booking: average spend per person, reservation tips, walk-in chances, peak hours

Prices are mid-range for Dam Square. Expect a main + drink to land in the moderate bracket. Shared starters or desserts add a bit, but portions make it fair value for the location.

Reservations help for dinner and weekends. Walk-ins are common at lunch and late afternoon. If you’re a group of six or more, book ahead to guarantee a table together.

Peak hours run from 6:00–9:00 pm, especially Friday–Sunday. The terrace fills when the sun is out. If you’re flexible, aim for an early dinner or a later seating.

Typical spend (per person)

• Lunch (main + soft drink): mid-range

• Dinner (starter or dessert + main + drink): mid to upper-mid

• Cocktails: standard city pricing

Best times to go: breakfast/lunch/dinner/late-night energy; terrace and seasonal considerations

Breakfast is calm and ideal for planning your day. Lunch brings steady buzz and quick service. Mid-afternoon is great for coffee, pie, and a prime terrace seat.

Dinner is the social peak, with a lively crowd and fuller menu. Late evening leans drinks-forward, especially on weekends. Service stays friendly even when it’s busy.

Weather shapes the experience. On sunny days, the terrace is the star. In colder months, indoor seating is warm and cozy, with clear views of Dam Square through the windows.

Timing tips

• Breakfast: quiet + easy seating

• Lunch: steady pace, good for families

• Golden hour: best terrace light

• Late night (Fri–Sat): energetic drinks scene

Nearby entertainment combos: pairing with the Red Light District, Dam Square sights, museums, and nightlife

Majestic’s location makes planning easy. Start with lunch here, then walk to the Red Light District for canal views, coffeeshops, red light window brothels, Sexshows and history. Return later for dessert or nightcaps.

Dam Square offers street performers and quick photo ops. The Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk often host exhibits. For shopping, Kalverstraat and De Bijenkorf are close.

Nightlife fans can head toward Warmoesstraat and Nieuwmarkt for bars. If you prefer culture, catch a concert at the nearby venues or take the metro to Museumplein for evening exhibits.

Easy one-two plans

• Lunch at Majestic → Red Light District stroll

• Drinks at Majestic → Dam Square photos at sunset

• Dinner at Majestic → Nieuwmarkt bars

Practical info: opening hours, payment methods, accessibility, group-friendly seating, and dress code

Hours typically cover breakfast through late evening, with longer weekends. Card payments are widely accepted; contactless works fast. Tipping is optional but appreciated for good service.

The entrance and indoor area are spacious, with staff who can help with seating. If you have accessibility needs, mention them on arrival so they can set up a suitable table. Restroom access is on-site.

Groups fit well thanks to flexible table layouts. For very large parties, call ahead and ask about set menus or staged ordering. Dress is casual—smart casual if you’re going out after.

Gut zu wissen

• Opening hours: generally all-day; longer on weekends

• Payments: cards + contactless widely accepted

• Dress code: casual to smart casual

• Families: high chairs usually available