Little Collins De Pijp — Restaurant in Amsterdam

A Gastronomic Odyssey at Little Collins De Pijp

Nestled in the vibrant heart of De Pijp, Little Collins delivers an experience that transcends the ordinary, seamlessly blending bold flavors with meticulous execution. Even on a frigid December 31st, when only outdoor seating was available, the warmth of the food—and the hospitality—made it an unforgettable visit.

The 18-hour slow-cooked brisket was the undisputed star of the table. Each forkful melted effortlessly, the depth of flavor a testament to the patience and precision of the cooking process. The black bean purée added an earthy silkiness, its velvety texture balancing the rich umami of the meat. A quesadilla, crisp and golden, provided a delightful contrast, while the green chili sauce injected a sharp, piquant brightness that cut through the richness. A finishing touch of coriander brought a layer of herbal freshness, tying the dish together harmoniously.

Equally compelling was the Cumin-Spiced Beef & Lamb platter, a dish that felt like a symphony of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. The cumin lent a smoky, almost citrusy warmth to the perfectly seared meats, while the hummus provided a luscious, nutty backdrop. The jalapeño mint feta was a revelation—its fiery kick tempered by the cooling whisper of mint, creating an addictive interplay of flavors. Pickled onions delivered acidity and crunch, elevating each bite with a burst of brightness. And then there was the pita—pillowy, slightly charred, the perfect vessel to scoop up every last morsel.

What made this experience even more special was the personal touch: being served by the owner herself, a woman whose presence and dedication were palpable. She moved with the confidence of someone who understands hospitality at its core—not just serving food but curating an experience.

In every sense, Little Collins De Pijp embodies what modern dining should be: thoughtful, bold, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re here for a quick brunch or a lingering meal, expect to embark on a journey where every bite is...

Heard good things but was disappointed. You can tell they put a lot of effort into creating unique and nicely plated dishes, and the space is bustling and bright, if a bit cramped. We waited for only a moment for being seated inside.

I tried to order the halloumi with poached eggs, but they were sold out (we came 1.5 hours before closing, so definitely understandable. Need to arrive early for the good stuff!). Got the French toast with a side of bacon instead.

While the flavors were very good, the portion size of the French toast was laughably small, specifically the bread/toast. I'm not sure if they were running out of food at that time, but it was a little strip about the length and width of two index fingers, like 1/3 of a slice of bread. The amount of fruit and creme fraiche topping it was, in comparison, quite large and really threw off the balance of the dish. It looked like a plate of melted ice cream by the end. Really felt as if they didn't have enough French toast to fill the remaining orders, so they split it up what was left and sent it out.

The side of bacon didn't arrive with the food, so I just assumed they forgot it, but it did come about 5 minutes later. Again, flavor was good, rich and meaty, but the bacon was SO undercooked I could only take a few bites. The slices were all stuck together and had a wet, chewy and unappetizing texture. Just another 2 minutes on the grill would have made a huge difference, so I wonder if the bacon was rushed out because they forgot to fire it initially.

After paying I left, still hungry. Based on the flavors and seeing other dishes I didn't try, I would come back, but earlier in the day. And maybe stick to something...

Nestled in Amsterdam’s vibrant De Pijp neighbourhood, Little Collins offers a brunch experience that stands out in this lively district. De Pijp, often referred to as Amsterdam’s Latin Quarter, is renowned for its eclectic mix of cuisines, bustling cafés, and the famous Albert Cuypmarkt street market. This area has been a popular haunt for creatives, students, and bohemian spirits since the 1960s, making it a cultural hotspot in the city. 

Service: The service at Little Collins is exceptional. The staff are attentive, friendly, and contribute significantly to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the café.

Food: Little Collins is a culinary delight, with a menu that truly shines. The French toast with poached pear is a standout, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The 18-hour slow-cooked rib is another highlight, showcasing the kitchen’s dedication to flavour and tenderness. The combination of soft salmon and crispy rösti elevates both texture and taste to the next level. Lastly, the poached eggs with Aleppo butter and garlic labneh are simply amazing, blending rich flavours with a hint of spice.

Note: Be sure to sign up for their virtual queue upon arrival, as Little Collins operates on a walk-in-only policy. The wait is typically around 20-30 minutes, but don’t worry—the nearby Albert Cuypmarkt offers plenty to explore while you wait. 

In summary, Little Collins in De Pijp is a must-visit for brunch enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining experience in one of Amsterdam’s most dynamic...