Description
29 Spices is a bit of a hidden gem in Amsterdam, serving Indian street food inspired by the country’s many regions. Step inside and you’ll catch the aroma of spices straight away. It’s a lovely welcome, especially on a grey Amsterdam day.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Indian restaurant. 29 Spices gives classic street food a more modern spin, while keeping the flavours rooted in tradition. Chefs Dipak and Rahul have worked hard to bring authentic Indian food to Amsterdam, and that care comes through in the menu.
The dining room has a “trendy meets cozy” feel. You can show up in jeans or dress up a bit, and you’ll fit right in. It’s a relaxed, contemporary space, the sort of place where you might find yourself taking a quick photo of your meal.
But the main event is the food. The menu covers plenty of Indian favourites, from street food favourites like Pav Bhaji and Chilli Paneer to more substantial dishes. There’s a good range for vegetarians, too, so everyone at the table should find something tempting.
29 Spices pays close attention to each dish, from its presentation to the balance of flavours. The chefs clearly put care into what they serve. They’re happy to bring the heat, but you can ask them to adjust the spice level to suit you.
Key Features
A big part of the restaurant’s appeal is the pair in the kitchen, Chefs Dipak and Rahul. Both bring years of experience and a real passion for Indian cooking. Dipak even travelled door to door to learn “grandma’s recipes” inspired by his mum. That’s quite a commitment.
Rahul has travelled widely, picking up culinary inspiration along the way. Now he calls Amsterdam home and shares those ideas with local diners. We’re lucky to have him here.
One of 29 Spices’ standout features is its focus on progressive Indian street food. The classics are on the menu, but the kitchen also experiments with new twists. It makes for an interesting mix, especially if you’re in the mood to try something different.
The restaurant takes its spices seriously, too. Each dish brings together a considered mix of flavours, with the spices playing their own part. You can taste the care in the cooking.
Planning a party or event? 29 Spices also offers catering, with Indian street food that’ll give your guests something to talk about.
And don’t skip dessert. Their Halwa makes a lovely sweet finish to a meal. I wouldn’t blame you for ordering an extra portion to take home.
Best Time to Visit
There’s no bad time for Indian food, really, but a few small things can help you plan your visit. Here are some local tips.
Amsterdam weather can be unpredictable, and on a chilly, rainy day, a plate of curry at 29 Spices hits the spot. It’s a cosy place to warm up after a walk through town.
Summer has its own appeal. The city feels lively, and 29 Spices makes a good stop for a cold drink and some spicy street food before heading out for the evening.
If you’d rather miss the busiest periods, try visiting in the late afternoon between lunch and dinner. You’ll usually have a little more room, and, if the chefs aren’t busy, a chance to chat with them.
Weekend evenings can get lively, while a weekday visit tends to feel a bit more intimate. Tuesday is as good a night as any for a flavour-packed dinner.
Keep an eye out for special events or themed nights, too. Check the restaurant’s social media or sign up for its newsletter to hear what’s coming up.
If you’re in Amsterdam for a major holiday, consider booking a table. 29 Spices serves festive specials that bring an Indian twist to the celebrations. Book ahead, as the restaurant can get busy.
How to Get There
Here’s how to get to 29 Spices without getting too lost in the canals along the way. The restaurant is in Amsterdam, and how you get there depends on where you’re staying.
If you’re staying in the city centre, you may be able to walk from your accommodation. It’s a nice way to see more of Amsterdam before dinner, and you’ll have earned that extra naan bread by the time you arrive.
Taking public transport? Amsterdam’s tram and bus network makes it easy to get around. Check the latest routes and timings before you set off, since services can change.
Amsterdam is a great city to explore by bike, and cycling to 29 Spices is another option. You’ll find bike rental shops around town if you don’t have your own. Lock your bike securely when you arrive; theft does happen.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are easy to find if you’re coming from further away or prefer a direct trip. Enter the restaurant’s address and let your driver handle the sometimes confusing Amsterdam streets.
Give yourself a little extra time to find the restaurant, especially if you don’t know the area. Amsterdam’s streets can be a maze, but that’s part of getting around here. You’ll know you’re close once you catch the aroma from the kitchen.
One last practical note: parking can be a headache in Amsterdam. If you’re driving, look for a public parking garage nearby and walk the rest of the way. It’s usually easier than searching for a space on the street.
