Description
Ah, the New King in Amsterdam – what a gem! I stumbled upon this place during my last trip to the Dutch capital, and boy, was I in for a treat. Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam’s bustling Chinatown, this unassuming restaurant serves up some of the most authentic Chinese cuisine you’ll find this side of the Pacific.
Now, don’t go expecting fancy decor or white tablecloths. The New King is all about the food, and trust me, that’s exactly how it should be. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling woks and fragrant spices. It’s enough to make your mouth water before you’ve even glanced at the menu!
Speaking of the menu, it’s extensive and might seem a bit overwhelming at first. But fear not, my fellow foodies! Whether you’re craving some crispy Peking duck, slurp-worthy noodles, or a comforting bowl of won ton soup, the New King has got you covered. And let’s not forget about their dim sum – it’s simply to die for!
What really sets this place apart, though, is the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs. You can taste the freshness in every bite, and the flavors are perfectly balanced. It’s clear that these visitors know their stuff when it comes to Chinese cuisine.
Key Features
Now, let me break down some of the standout features that make the New King a must-visit spot in Amsterdam:
1. Authentic Chinese cuisine: This ain’t your run-of-the-mill takeaway joint. The New King serves up the real deal, with flavors that’ll transport you straight to the streets of Beijing or Shanghai.
2. Extensive menu: With over 200 dishes to choose from, there’s something for everyone here. From veggie-friendly options to seafood specialties, you’re bound to find your new favorite Chinese dish.
3. Generous portions: Trust me, you won’t leave hungry. The portions here are big enough to share (or not, if you’re anything like me).
4. Reasonable prices: For the quality and quantity of food you get, the prices are surprisingly wallet-friendly. It’s great value for money, especially in a city that can be quite pricey.
5. Quick service: The staff here are efficient and attentive. Even when the place is packed (which it often is), you won’t be waiting long for your food.
6. Late-night dining: Open until the wee hours, it’s perfect for those post-pub munchies or jet-lagged travelers.
7. No-frills atmosphere: It’s not fancy, but it’s clean and comfortable. Plus, the bustling atmosphere adds to the authentic experience.
Best Time to Visit
Alright, let’s talk timing. When’s the best time to hit up the New King? Well, that depends on what you’re after.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, your best bet is to go for an early lunch or a late dinner. The restaurant opens at 11: 30 AM, and I’ve found that heading there around noon is perfect. You’ll beat the lunch rush and have your pick of tables.
On the flip side, if you’re a night owl or just like the buzz of a busy restaurant, aim for around 8 PM. The place really comes alive in the evening, with a mix of locals and tourists creating a lively atmosphere. Just be prepared to wait for a table if you go during peak dinner hours.
Now, here’s a little insider tip for you – if you’re craving dim sum, go for lunch. They serve their full dim sum menu all day, but it’s especially popular during lunchtime. There’s something magical about starting your day with a steaming basket of har gow or siu mai.
As for days of the week, weekends are unsurprisingly busier. If you’re flexible, try visiting on a weekday. You’ll have a more relaxed experience and might even snag one of the window seats for some prime people-watching.
Oh, and if you’re in Amsterdam during Chinese New Year? Do yourself a favor and book a table at the New King. The atmosphere is electric, and they often have special festive dishes on offer. Just make sure to reserve well in advance – it gets crazy busy!
How to Get There
Getting to the New King is a piece of cake, thanks to Amsterdam’s excellent public transport system. But let me tell you, half the fun is in the journey!
The restaurant is located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Chinatown, on the Zeedijk. This street is a feast for the senses, with its colorful shops, fragrant bakeries, and the occasional whiff of, er,” herbal” aromas (it is Amsterdam, after all).
If you’re coming by tram, you’ve got a couple of options. Tram lines 4, 14, and 24 all stop at Nieuwmarkt, which is just a short walk from the restaurant. From there, just follow your nose (and the crowd) towards Zeedijk.
For the metro riders out there, hop on lines 51, 53, or 54 and get off at Nieuwmarkt station. Easy peasy!
Now, if you’re feeling energetic and want to work up an appetite, I’d highly recommend walking. The New King is about a 10-minute stroll from Dam Square or a 15-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Trust me, it’s worth it. You’ll get to soak in the atmosphere of the old city center, with its narrow streets and beautiful canal houses.
For the cycling enthusiasts (and let’s face it, who doesn’t love biking in Amsterdam? ), there are plenty of bike racks near the restaurant. Just remember to lock up securely – bike theft is unfortunately common in the city.
Oh, and a word to the wise – if you’re using Google Maps or any other navigation app, don’t be thrown off if it shows you multiple locations for” New King” . There’s only one, and it’s at Zeedijk 115-117. Some apps get confused with similarly named restaurants in the area.
Tips for Visiting
Alright, listen up ’cause I’m about to drop some knowledge that’ll make your visit to the New King smoother than their silky tofu:
1. Come hungry: The portions here are generous. Don’t make the rookie mistake of filling up on bread or snacks beforehand.
2. Be prepared to share: Chinese cuisine is all about sharing, so gather a group and order a variety of dishes to sample. It’s the best way to experience the full range of flavors.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations: The staff know their stuff and can guide you towards some hidden gems on the menu.
4. Try the house specials: Look out for dishes marked as house specials or chef’s recommendations. They’re usually knockout crowd-pleasers.
5. BYO chopstick skills: While forks are available, why not embrace the full experience and eat with chopsticks? It’s more fun, I promise!
6. Reservations aren’t always necessary, but they can’t hurt: Especially if you’re planning to visit during peak hours or with a large group.
7. Bring cash: While they do accept cards, some smaller amounts might be cash only. It’s always good to have some euros on hand.
8. Don’t rush: Take your time and enjoy the experience. Chinese dining is meant to be leisurely, so settle in and make an evening of it.
9. Try the tea: They serve a lovely jasmine tea that pairs perfectly with the food. It’s a great palate cleanser between dishes.
10. Save room for dessert: The fried ice cream is a crowd favorite, and for good reason!
11. Be adventurous: Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Who knows? You might discover your new favorite dish!
12. Check the specials board: They often have seasonal dishes or daily specials that aren’t on the regular menu.
13. Don’t be put off by the simple decor: Remember, you’re here for the food, not the ambiance.
14. Learn a few basic Cantonese phrases: The staff will appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is way off (trust me, I know from experience).
15. Explore the neighborhood: After your meal, take a stroll through Chinatown. It’s a vibrant area with lots to see and do.
