The Bottom Line
What can Dutch cuisine be beside stamppot ("pot mash"), split pea soup and other classic but decidedly old-fashioned favorites? Koetjes & Kalfjes doesn't bill itself as a Dutch restaurant -- it isn't really -- but as a "modern bistro"; so I was all the more surprised to discover a menu of innovative continental dishes laced with Dutch staples like zuurkool (sauerkraut) and even some haute-cuisine takes on the old stamppot.
Pros
- Exquisite dishes that blend continental, Japanese and Dutch influences
- Small but well-curated wine menu
- Uniquely attractive decor
- Convenient location just steps from Amsterdam Zuid station
Cons
- Portions are small for some
- Little to no vegetarian selection; vegans, look elsewhere
- Closed on weekends
Description
- Address: Gustav Mahlerplein 14, Amsterdam
Phone: +31 (0)20 644 0811 - Hours: Mon. - Fri., 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Closed weekends.
- Location: New South, just 200m south of Station Zuid.
- Directions: Take metro 50 or 51 or tram 5 to Station Zuid; then walk south on Zuidplein, which will turn into Gustav Mahlerplein.
- Attire: Casual.
- Décor: Fashionably eclectic; classy but not stuffy.
- Payment: Accepts major credit cards.
Guide Review - Koetjes & Kalfjes - Amsterdam Restaurant Review
I first noticed Koetjes en Kalfjes from the life-sized and rather realistic cow statues posted in front of several of their South Holland locations; their quirky sense of decor doesn't stop there. We were struck immediately by the sheer variety of patterns and textiles that adorn the interior, from hide chairs to deeply rustic woods.
We munched on thick, rustic breads with sides of Spanish aioli and olive tapenade (€ 3.50) as we perused their decadent menu. Kalfjes en Koetjes focuses their attention on a small selection of expertly prepared dishes, so as a party of four we were able to sample almost half of all their entrees. Tender drumsticks of hen were served over velvety mashed potatoes swirled with sauerkraut (€ 18.50), while the roasted duck breast was paired with a rich honey-rosemary sauce (€ 19.50). The cod filet was marinated in a sauce of dry French vermouth, Noilly Prat, with subtle Provençal undertones (€ 18.50); the dorade filet looked exquisite on a bed of new-fashioned stamppot, mashed potatoes dotted with North Sea shrimp and laced with ribbons of spinach (€ 19.50). Without sides like baked potatoes (€ 1.75) and French fries (€ 2.75), however, our party wouldn't have been satiated; next time, we'll be sure to order the set menus, which include appetizers (€29.50-35.00).
The crème brûlée looked and tasted just as wonderful as the other attractively-plated dishes; with a delicately caramelized surface and a side of vanilla ice cream, it was one of the most memorable desserts I've had here in the Netherlands. Specialty drinks like the Irish coffee, spiked with Famous Grouse whisky, made for bold accompaniments to the final course.
After this first excellent impression, I can't wait to try out Koetjes en Kalfjes' lunch menu (Mon. - Fri. from 11:30 a.m.), a tad on the pricey side for lunch but perfect for special occasions.
One caveat for diners who don't eat meat: check the web site to see if the current menu features any meatless meals, or call ahead to see if the pasta or dish of the day meets your dietary requirements.
