I stumbled upon Sama Seba, a hidden gem in Amsterdam's Museum District, and I'm so glad I didn't read reviews beforehand - it was a delightful surprise! I was informed that this Indonesian restaurant has been a cultural hub for years, earning the nickname "the living room of Amsterdam" due to its cozy ambiance and special connection with its guests. As I walked in, I felt right at home, surrounded by the warm and inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome. Kinda like the "Cheers" pub in the United States.
The chicken satay with peanut sauce is an absolute must-try - it's a game-changer! Our waiter was fantastic, ordering for us and making recommendations that didn't disappoint. What struck me was his passion for the restaurant, having dined there so often that he decided to join the team. The rijsttafel is another highlight, with over 20 items to savor.
Its was cool to learn about Sama Seba's rich history - the server informed us that it's the oldest Indonesian specialty restaurant in the Netherlands, and its guestbook is filled with autographs from international celebrities like Muhammad Ali, Johan Cruyff, and David Bowie. The location is perfect, just a stone's throw from the luxury shops and the Museum District. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a unique dining experience, Sama Seba is a must-visit. With its affordable price range and generous portions, you'll leave feeling satisfied and already planning your next visit. So, come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with unforgettable memories! That being said, we were told that it is a very popular place, so either come experience this place during lunchtime or be prepared to wait a bit should you come for...
Read moreThere was a bald man in this restaura, my daughter of 4 and half wanted to have water and we brought warm water with us for her , as we are giving her water that bald man looked so badly from top to bottom as if we have murdered someone, we had to take permission from him to give her that lil water. He told only she can have and for us we have to buy from that restaurant , pointing finger at my husband , looking from top to bottom ,We said definitely we will order from him for us .we felt so bad for this since we had never had these types of nuisance experience ever, travelled all around the world. After this that bald man and one more lady (Indonesian lady) kept looking at us as if we had water from that bottle.The look which he was giving is beyond explanation.All people of Amsterdam are like this or he is the special one. A question mark What a disgusting experience was this. This type of behaviour is intolerable. Watch out your bloody behaviour and it’s not anyone’s right to stop anyone from having water even it’s brought...
Read moreWent for lunch with my husband I’ve ordered a salad, and immediately they looked at me sideways My husband asked for their suggestion, a 22€ combo that is supposed to be a good way to try their food BUT!… They serve you the combo on one plate! 22€ for a “combo” that it supposed to be an experience of their best, is served on a soup plate, it really looks like pig food (no offense to pigs intended), all the food piled… No care what so ever on serving the different dishes separately, as it should be. When I asked for a plate to be able to separate the different types of food, the answer received was “that plate is not for share”, what obliged me to explain the obvious, that all my husband wanted, was to separate the different dishes, piled up in one, so he could understand and taste what he was eating. Do not recommend nor the service, nor the “combo” that they sell as the one to go for!! Awful is the kindest word I find at the moment to resume...
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