Restaurant Laya (Amsterdam RAI) — Restaurant in Amsterdam

Very weird dining experience overall.

Had to get the server’s attention when I arrived to get seated, despite the server not doing much at the time.

Couple of empty tables, but neither of them was cleared. I don’t mind sitting while waiting for the table to be cleared, but the fact the server could’ve cleared it earlier irks me. While waiting and after finishing, we noticed more tables not promptly cleared after guests had left, assuming it’s because it was late and approaching closing time.

Ordered a steak, but the server didn’t ask for doneness. It was great in the end, but pre-cut before serving? Not what I’m used to.

Table next to us had some issues with their dish, which contained sauce not stated on the menu. The chef came out to deal with it and was quite defensive, and perhaps due to a lack in proficiency in english, sounded borderline rude.

The same guests attempted to give the staff some constructive advice while paying, which wasn’t exactly gracefully accepted.

After the “problematic” guests had left, we were (one of) the last tables remaining, and I overheard the staff talking loudly about how annoying the previous guests were. I am not caucasian so it’s likely they assumed I wouldn’t understand their conversation in dutch. I did. Very unprofessional.

Chef, not server, served our food when it was ready, forgot to give us cutlery. Either the server should’ve set the table after cleaning, or the chef had little experience serving and forgot. He disappeared into the back pretty quickly, server was nowhere to be seen either so I got the cutlery from the cutlery station myself, this can’t...

Located just steps from the Rai, Restaurant Laya proves that true culinary brilliance often hides behind unassuming facades—a hidden gem where flavors whisper secrets of passion and precision.

The ambiance is modestly cozy, evoking a neighborhood bistro rather than a grand dining hall, yet it allows the food to take center stage without distraction. Service shines with genuine warmth; the owner extends a level of kindness and accommodation that feels personal, transforming a meal into a welcoming conversation.

But it’s the cuisine that elevates Laya to must-visit status. The appetizers burst with vibrant, layered flavors—each bite a symphony of freshness that left me yearning for just one more, their creativity rivaling some of my favorite restaurants. The salmon filet arrived impeccably cooked, its flaky tenderness enhanced by exquisite seasoning that balanced subtlety and depth. Paired over pearled couscous that was nothing short of transcendent—fluffy, aromatic, and infused with spices that lingered like a warm embrace—it created a dish I’d happily revisit.

Value here is exceptional for such quality, offering refined dining without the pretension or price tag of Amsterdam’s tourist traps. The decor, with its understated elegance and thoughtful touches, enhances the welcoming vibe, making every visit feel effortlessly charming.

In all, a solid 5-star experience grounded in innovation,...

I found this place to be neat and friendly. It looks like being run by 1-2 people only and it's not pretentious but manages to feel modern, welcoming with a hint of upscale. The mood music was well chosen the evening I went there.

I had a simple appetizer with garlic bread and a few sauces which were very flavorful. As main course I took the sea bass with cous cous: it was cooked well, flaking just the right amount. The sauces it came with were very different flavors so, if eaten slowly and alternating the sauces, this sea bass felt like 3 types of sea bass fillet 😅. Each of them really good.

The chocolate cake for dessert was light and chocolatey.

A very...