Dining out as a couple is a wonderful experience, but the cost can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant, the location, and the choices you make. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking to enjoy a special evening out, it helps to have a clear idea of what to expect beforehand. In Amsterdam, where fine dining is taken seriously, prices range from a simple bistro dinner to an elaborate gastronomic experience.
In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about the cost of a dinner out for two, so you can sit down at the table fully prepared.
What is the average price of dining out for two?
The average cost of dining out for two in the Netherlands is roughly between €60 and €150, depending on the level of the restaurant. At a casual pub restaurant or bistro, you can easily spend €30 to €50 per person, including drinks. At a quality restaurant in a city like Amsterdam, that figure quickly rises to between €70 and €120 per person for a full evening with wine.
When estimating your budget, it helps to think in three categories. A casual restaurant typically charges €25 to €45 per person for a two- or three-course menu. A mid-range restaurant with a broader offering will often come to €50 to €80 per person. And for a fine dining experience in Amsterdam, expect to pay €90 or more per person, excluding wine. Keep in mind that drinks, water, and any side dishes can add significantly to the bill.
What costs are included in a restaurant bill?
A restaurant bill involves more than just the food. In addition to the dishes, you also pay for drinks such as wine, water, and coffee, and sometimes for bread or amuse-bouches served with the meal. At some restaurants, certain side dishes or sauces are priced separately.
When estimating the total cost, consider the following items:
- Starters, main courses, and desserts
- Wine, beer, soft drinks, or water (still or sparkling water is often not complimentary)
- Coffee or tea after dinner
- A wine pairing with a multi-course menu, if chosen
- A tip, which is not mandatory in the Netherlands but is customary for good service
A wine pairing with a multi-course menu can add €30 to €60 per person to the bill. It is therefore wise to factor this into your budget in advance if you are considering it.
What is the difference between à la carte and a set multi-course menu?
With à la carte dining, you choose each course individually from the menu and pay per dish. With a set multi-course menu, you opt for a fixed selection of two, three, or more courses at one all-inclusive price. A set menu generally offers more structure and gives you a clearer picture of the total cost upfront.
Dining à la carte gives you more freedom: you choose exactly what you want and can skip courses if you prefer. This can work out cheaper if you skip dessert, for example, but it can also become more expensive if you combine multiple courses with side dishes. A set multi-course menu is often a smart choice when you want to enjoy the full culinary experience that a chef has put together. Many restaurants also offer a chef’s menu, where the kitchen team creates a seasonal selection that showcases the kitchen at its best.
How much does a fish restaurant cost compared to other restaurants?
A fish restaurant is generally somewhat more expensive than the average restaurant, because fresh fish and seafood carry higher purchasing costs than meat or vegetarian dishes. Daily fresh fish, oysters, and lobster are seasonal products that are carefully sourced, which justifies the price. Expect to pay an average of €60 to €100 per person for a full dinner at a quality fish restaurant.
By comparison, an Italian or French bistro typically charges €40 to €70 per person, while a steakhouse or meat-focused restaurant is priced similarly to a good fish restaurant. The key difference lies in the freshness and seasonal nature of what is on offer. At a good fish restaurant, the menu changes regularly in line with the season, ensuring a unique experience with every visit.
When is dining out for two truly worth it?
Dining out for two is truly worth it when you consciously choose quality, experience, and good company over convenience or cost savings. A special dinner is more than just a meal — it is an experience you share together. Think of a birthday, an anniversary, a romantic evening, or simply a moment to step away from the daily routine.
The added value of a good restaurant lies in the combination of factors:
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients that are difficult to replicate at home
- An atmospheric setting that enhances the overall experience
- Professional service that makes the evening relaxed and memorable
- A culinary surprise through seasonal dishes or a chef’s menu
If you are deliberately investing in an evening that will stay with you for a long time, a good restaurant in Amsterdam is an excellent choice. The price per person then covers not just the food, but the complete experience.
How do you book smart for a dinner for two?
Booking smart starts with planning ahead, especially at popular restaurants in Amsterdam. Ideally, reserve at least a week in advance, and for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day or public holidays, even a few weeks earlier. When booking, check whether a set menu or special packages are available so you can estimate the costs accurately.
A few practical tips for a smart reservation:
- Mention any dietary requirements or allergies when booking, so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.
- Ask about terrace availability if you would like to sit outside.
- Browse the menu in advance to get an idea of the prices and what is on offer.
- Confirm your reservation the day before if you have the option to do so.
At many restaurants, you can book online, which is quick and easy. Keep in mind that popular restaurants sometimes have a no-show policy, meaning you must cancel within a specified timeframe if your plans change.
How Vis aan de Schelde makes your dinner for two unforgettable
If you are looking for a complete fine dining experience in Amsterdam for two, we offer exactly that. At Vis aan de Schelde, we combine daily fresh fish, seasonal produce, and a warm atmosphere into an evening that will stay with you long after. Here is what you can expect from us:
- A rotating seasonal menu featuring daily fresh fish, oysters, and lobster
- A choice between à la carte dining or a multi-course menu with an optional wine pairing
- A monthly chef’s menu, curated by our kitchen team
- Dishes for fish lovers, vegetarians, and meat lovers alike
- A welcoming brasserie in the Rivierenbuurt with a terrace, opposite the RAI Convention Centre
Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a birthday, or simply want to enjoy the best Amsterdam has to offer in fish and seafood: we are here for you. View our menu and reserve your table today, because an evening at Vis aan de Schelde fills up fast.
Veelgestelde vragen
How much tip is customary at a fine dining restaurant in Amsterdam?
Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands, but at a fine dining restaurant it is customary to leave 10 to 15 percent of the bill for good service. For a dinner of €150 for two, that works out to an extra €15 to €22. You can leave the tip in cash or add it when paying by card. It is a nice way to show your appreciation for the effort of both the service and kitchen team.
Is a wine pairing always worth it with a multi-course menu?
A wine pairing is definitely worth it if you want to deepen the culinary experience and prefer not to choose a bottle yourself. The sommelier selects a wine for each course that enhances the flavors of the dish, elevating the overall experience to a higher level. Keep in mind that a wine pairing can add €30 to €60 per person to the bill, so discuss this with your dining companion in advance and factor it into your budget.
What is a good way to save money without compromising the restaurant experience?
A smart way to save is by opting for a lunch service or an early-bird deal, which many restaurants offer at a lower price than the evening menu. You can also consciously choose the house wine instead of a selected bottle, or skip the wine pairing and stick to one good glass per person. By browsing the menu online beforehand, you will know exactly what to expect and avoid any surprises on the bill.
How do I know whether a restaurant is right for a romantic evening for two?
When choosing a restaurant, pay attention to factors such as lighting, table spacing, and noise level: a romantic atmosphere calls for soft lighting, enough space between tables, and a calm ambiance. Read reviews on Google or platforms such as IENS to see whether other couples have found the atmosphere intimate and special. When making your reservation, feel free to ask whether a preferred table is available, such as a quiet corner or a table by the window.
What should I do if one of us has an allergy or dietary requirement?
Always mention allergies and dietary requirements at the time of booking, so the kitchen has enough time to prepare and offer alternatives. Confirm this again upon arrival at the restaurant, so the service staff can inform the kitchen team. Most quality restaurants in Amsterdam, including fish restaurants, are well equipped to handle common allergies and also offer options for vegetarians or guests with a gluten intolerance.
What is the difference between a brasserie and a fine dining restaurant?
A brasserie typically has a more relaxed atmosphere, an extensive menu, and flexible dining hours, while a fine dining restaurant places greater emphasis on a multi-course menu, attentive service, and a polished ambiance. At a brasserie, you can often come in for just a single course, whereas fine dining is more of a complete evening experience. Some restaurants combine both: a brasserie setting with fine dining quality on the plate, offering you the best of both worlds.
How far in advance should I reserve at a popular fish restaurant in Amsterdam?
For a weekday evening, a reservation one week in advance is usually sufficient, but for weekends it is better to book two to three weeks ahead. Around holidays such as Valentine's Day, Christmas, or New Year's Eve, popular restaurants in Amsterdam can be fully booked weeks or even months in advance. So reserve as early as possible if you have a specific date in mind, and confirm your reservation the day before to avoid any misunderstandings.
