Hidden Gem Restaurant in Amsterdam
Tucked inside the Amsterdam City Archives, Cafe Restaurant De Bazel is a stunning Art Deco restaurant that most tourists walk right past. Discover a world of mosaic floors, stained glass, and exceptional cuisine — just steps from the Flower Market and Rembrandtplein.
A Secret Worth Discovering
Most visitors to Amsterdam never discover Cafe Restaurant De Bazel. Hidden inside the monumental Stadsarchief (City Archives) building at Vijzelstraat 30, this is where locals come for a quiet breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or an elegant dinner — far from the tourist crowds of the Kalverstraat and Dam Square.
Step through the doors of the City Archives and find yourself in a breathtaking Art Deco interior designed by K.P.C. de Bazel in 1926. Originally the headquarters of the Nederlandsche Handel-Maatschappij (Netherlands Trading Society), this National Monument now houses one of Amsterdam's most beautiful restaurants. Quiet, elegant, and never a tourist trap.
Opening Hours
Tue-Sun 09:00-22:00, Mon 09:00-17:00
Cuisine
Breakfast from 9.50, lunch from 14.50, dinner from 22.50
Address
Vijzelstraat 30, 1017 HL Amsterdam
Walking Distances
- Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt): 3 minutes
- Muntplein: 2 minutes
- Rembrandtplein: 5 minutes
- Koningsplein: 4 minutes
- Leidseplein: 10 minutes
- Dam Square: 12 minutes
Why Locals Love This Hidden Gem
Hidden Location
Tucked inside the City Archives building, invisible from the street. A true discovery moment when you walk in.
No Tourist Crowds
Enjoy a peaceful meal in a quiet, elegant setting favored by locals and savvy travelers.
Stunning Interior
A National Monument with original 1926 Art Deco details: mosaic floors, stained glass, and marble columns.
Walk-ins Welcome
No need to book weeks ahead. Drop in for coffee, lunch, or dinner. Grand Cafe seats up to 100 guests.
Frequently Asked Questions — Hidden Gem Restaurant Amsterdam
What makes De Bazel a hidden gem?
De Bazel is tucked inside the Amsterdam City Archives (Stadsarchief) building at Vijzelstraat 30. Most tourists walk right past it without realizing there is a stunning Art Deco restaurant inside this monumental government building. The interior features original 1926 architecture by K.P.C. de Bazel, making it one of Amsterdam's best-kept dining secrets.
Is De Bazel crowded with tourists?
No, De Bazel remains a favorite among locals and in-the-know visitors. Unlike restaurants on the main tourist routes, our location inside the City Archives building means we attract guests who appreciate great food and remarkable architecture without the typical tourist crowds. Walk-ins are welcome.
How do I find De Bazel?
De Bazel is located at Vijzelstraat 30, 1017 HL Amsterdam, inside the Stadsarchief (City Archives) building. From the Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt), walk 3 minutes via Muntplein. From Rembrandtplein, it is a 5-minute walk. Enter through the main entrance of the City Archives and you will find the restaurant on the ground floor.
Is it good for a quiet lunch?
Absolutely. De Bazel offers a peaceful, elegant atmosphere perfect for a quiet lunch. The high ceilings, original Art Deco details, and spacious Grand Cafe seating up to 100 guests means you always have plenty of room. Lunch is served from 12:00 with dishes starting from 14.50 euros.
What's special about the interior?
The interior is a National Monument (Rijksmonument) designed by architect K.P.C. de Bazel in 1926 in the Amsterdamse School and Art Deco style. You will find mosaic floors, stained glass windows, original wood paneling, marble columns, and wrought iron details. It was originally the headquarters of the Nederlandsche Handel-Maatschappij (Netherlands Trading Society).
Discover Amsterdam's Hidden Gem
Walk-ins welcome or reserve your table for a guaranteed spot. Step inside the City Archives and be amazed.