restaurantsamrat
New member
Hey everyone,
I've been on a bit of a mission lately to find the best Indian restaurant in Amsterdam — not just the trendy ones with best interiors, but a place that actually serves food you’d go back for. Authentic flavors, decent service, and a setting where you can have a relaxed meal — that’s my criteria.
I know there are a number of Indian restaurants scattered around the city, especially in areas like De Pijp and Centrum, but I recently came across Samrat Indian Restaurant near Dam Square. I’d walked by it several times but finally decided to try it after reading that it's been around for over two decades. Not exactly hidden, but it’s one of those places that doesn't scream for attention, which can be a good thing.
What stood out most, though, was the food. We ordered a mix: chicken tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, aloo gobi, garlic naan, and some dal makhani. I wouldn’t call it mind-blowing, but it was genuinely satisfying. Flavors felt balanced, and the spice levels were actually adjustable — we were asked how spicy we’d like our dishes, which is rare and appreciated.
If you're after something that resembles the kind of Indian food you’d actually get in India (or maybe in someone’s home), this place might surprise you. It’s located right at Damstraat 46, so it’s central, easy to find, and good if you're already around the city center.
Phone: (+31) 020-624-6033
Website: https://samratrestaurant.nl/
They’ve got their menu online, and it looks like you can make reservations through the site as well.
Also open to other suggestions — whether it's lesser-known family spots or new places doing something unique with Indian cuisine. Vegetarian-friendly spots are a bonus too.
I've been on a bit of a mission lately to find the best Indian restaurant in Amsterdam — not just the trendy ones with best interiors, but a place that actually serves food you’d go back for. Authentic flavors, decent service, and a setting where you can have a relaxed meal — that’s my criteria.
I know there are a number of Indian restaurants scattered around the city, especially in areas like De Pijp and Centrum, but I recently came across Samrat Indian Restaurant near Dam Square. I’d walked by it several times but finally decided to try it after reading that it's been around for over two decades. Not exactly hidden, but it’s one of those places that doesn't scream for attention, which can be a good thing.
First Impressions
The restaurant itself has a quiet, old-school vibe. It’s not trying to be overly modern or flashy, which made it feel more grounded. The decor is pretty classic and understated — it actually reminded me of the kind of sit-down Indian places you'd find in Delhi or Mumbai from back in the day.What stood out most, though, was the food. We ordered a mix: chicken tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, aloo gobi, garlic naan, and some dal makhani. I wouldn’t call it mind-blowing, but it was genuinely satisfying. Flavors felt balanced, and the spice levels were actually adjustable — we were asked how spicy we’d like our dishes, which is rare and appreciated.
Is It the Best Indian Restaurant in Amsterdam?
That’s a big claim, and honestly, it’s subjective. But based on what I’ve tried so far, Samrat deserves to be in the conversation. It’s not modern fusion, it’s not street food — it’s traditional North Indian food, served in a low-key setting without any gimmicks. For some people, that’s exactly what they’re looking for.If you're after something that resembles the kind of Indian food you’d actually get in India (or maybe in someone’s home), this place might surprise you. It’s located right at Damstraat 46, so it’s central, easy to find, and good if you're already around the city center.
Useful Info
In case anyone wants to check it out:Phone: (+31) 020-624-6033
Website: https://samratrestaurant.nl/
They’ve got their menu online, and it looks like you can make reservations through the site as well.
Curious to Hear Other Opinions
I’m curious — has anyone else here eaten at Samrat? Would you include it in your list of contenders for the best Indian restaurant in Amsterdam?Also open to other suggestions — whether it's lesser-known family spots or new places doing something unique with Indian cuisine. Vegetarian-friendly spots are a bonus too.
