Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw

Step into a genuine piece of Amsterdam’s culinary heritage at Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw, where time-honored tradition meets exceptional dining. Located in the heart of the city at Noorderstraat 11, this iconic restaurant has been serving legendary steaks unchanged since 1949, creating a dining institution beloved by locals and visitors alike for 75 years.

A Storied Legacy in the Perfect Amsterdam Location

When you enter Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw, you’re not just visiting a restaurant—you’re experiencing a living piece of Amsterdam’s history. Founded in 1949 at its enduring location on Noorderstraat 11, this culinary landmark has remained true to its origins while countless food trends have come and gone around it.

The establishment’s motto, “No steak changed since 1949,” isn’t merely clever marketing; it’s a solemn promise of consistency that has created a loyal following spanning generations. Some current patrons proudly share that they’ve been coming for 55 years or more—a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering quality and charm.

Conveniently situated near Rembrandtplein and the Heineken Experience, Piet de Leeuw occupies a central position that makes it accessible to both Amsterdam residents and visitors exploring the city. Despite its prime location, it has masterfully avoided becoming a mere tourist trap, maintaining its authentic character as a genuine Dutch institution.

The Legendary Steak Menu Experience

At the heart of Piet de Leeuw’s enduring fame is its signature dish: perfectly prepared steak. The menu showcases two exceptional options that have earned devoted followings:

• Beef Tenderloin (Biefstuk): An expertly prepared 180g portion, served in your choice of natural, garlic, or spicy sauce (€32.50). The tenderness and perfect preparation make this the best steak experience in Amsterdam.
• Steak of Horse (Paardenbiefstuk): A distinctive Dutch culinary tradition, this 180g cut (€29.90) offers a unique flavor profile that many consider a delicacy.

Both steaks are traditionally baked in butter for rich flavor and served with a generous portion of fries and authentic Dutch mayonnaise. While originally famous for serving their steaks with bread (biefstuk met brood), today’s presentation maintains the spirit of satisfying simplicity while adapting to contemporary preferences.

Beyond these signature dishes, the restaurant menu demonstrates impressive range:

• Fresh Seafood: From classic Dover sole (€36.50) to their flavorful fish pot (€27.50)
• Dutch Specialties: Traditional favorites like herring with toast (€9.50), eel with toast (€21.50), and veal liver with bacon and onion (€26.50)
• Hearty Options: Mixed grill (€28.50), satisfying schnitzel (€25.50), and flavorful spareribs (€27.50)
• Thoughtful Vegetarian Options: Including eggplant with harissa oil (€19.50) and vegetable quiche with fresh salad (€21.50)

The culinary journey concludes with tasty desserts like Brussels waffle with strawberries and whipped cream (€10.50), classic Crème brûlée (€8.00), or the traditional Dutch treat of vanilla ice cream with “boerenjongens” (raisins soaked in brandy) (€10.50).

Step Back in Time: The Authentic Brown Café Meets Traditional Dining

Walking into Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved slice of Amsterdam’s past. The interior embodies the quintessential Amsterdam “bruine kroeg” (brown café) aesthetic:

• Rich dark wood furnishings and paneling that exude warmth
• Characteristic wooden floorboards worn smooth by decades of footsteps
• Gleaming brass beer taps behind the polished bar
• Traditional jenever jugs adorning the wood paneling
• Stained glass windows and wrought-iron lamps casting a gentle glow
• Oil paintings adding character to the ceiling
• Walls decorated with vintage photographs of satisfied customers from throughout the decades

This carefully curated atmosphere is no accident—it’s a deliberate commitment to preserving an authentic Amsterdam experience. As the restaurant itself proudly claims, “in 50 years, you can still make it exactly like this here.” This steadfast dedication to tradition extends beyond the décor to the overall atmosphere and service style.

The Genuine “Mokum” Experience

What truly sets Piet de Leeuw apart is its authentic “Mokum” spirit—a distinctly Amsterdam approach to hospitality characterized by:

• Genuine Amsterdam Humor: Direct, witty, and unpretentious banter that creates an immediate sense of welcome
• No-Nonsense Service: Attentive and friendly without unnecessary formality or pretension
• Vibrant, Energetic Atmosphere: A lively setting where good food and animated conversation take center stage
• Gezelligheid: That distinctly Dutch sense of coziness and conviviality that makes even first-time visitors feel at home

This atmosphere creates what Dutch reviewers frequently refer to as “gezellig”—a concept that encompasses coziness, conviviality, and a sense of comfortable social interaction. It’s a place with a “cracking atmosphere,” often described as “loud and lively” when bustling with patrons.

Customer Experiences: What Diners Are Saying

The reputation of Piet de Leeuw is built on generations of satisfied customers. The Amsterdam venue consistently earns exceptional reviews, with ratings of 9.4/10 for food quality, 9.7/10 for service, and 9.2/10 for atmosphere on TheFork. On Quandoo, it boasts an impressive 5.4/6 average based on 440 reviews.

What keeps diners coming back decade after decade?

• Food Quality: The steaks—both beef and horse—are repeatedly described as “tender,” “succulent,” and “perfectly cooked”
• Service: Staff are lauded for being “friendly, funny, and happy,” embodying that genuine Amsterdam spirit
• Atmosphere: The “gezellig,” authentic interior creates an inviting environment that feels both special and comfortable
• Authenticity: Piet de Leeuw is celebrated as a “brilliant local Dutch restaurant” offering an “authentic experience” that successfully avoids becoming a “tourist trap” despite its fame

The depth of customer loyalty is striking, with some patrons reporting decades of patronage. One reviewer on TheFork mentioned, “Ik kom hier al 55 jaar” (I’ve been coming here for 55 years), while another long-time customer has been dining here for 60 years.

Practical Information for Visitors

Location and Contact Details

• Address: Noorderstraat 11, 1017 TR Amsterdam
• Contact: 06 – 8349 3873 or [email protected]
• Nearby Landmarks: Rembrandtplein and the Heineken Experience

Opening Hours and Reservations

• Open: Daily from 17:00 to 22:30 (kitchen closes at 22:00)
• Lunch: Available by reservation for groups of ten or more
• Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Book via the official website at www.pietdeleeuw.nl or by calling directly.

Getting There and Parking

• Public Transport: Several tram and bus lines serve the area around Noorderstraat
• Parking: Paid parking is available in the neighborhood, though spaces can be limited in central Amsterdam. The nearby APCOA Prins & Keizer parking garage offers a convenient option.

The Perfect Time to Visit

While Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw offers a memorable dining experience year-round, consider these suggestions for optimal timing:

• Friday and Saturday evenings provide a vibrant atmosphere perfect for experiencing the full energy of this beloved institution
• Weekday evenings offer a slightly more relaxed setting for those seeking a quieter meal
• During the 75th anniversary celebration (June 10th to November 30th, 2024), diners who spend €100 or more receive a limited-edition commemorative tile featuring classic Piet de Leeuw sayings

A Legacy of Quality Under New Stewardship

While maintaining its historic character, Piet de Leeuw has entered an exciting new chapter under the ownership of De Beukelaer Horecagroep, led by experienced hospitality entrepreneur Willem de Beukelaer. This transition, which occurred in 2023, has preserved the restaurant’s authentic character while enabling thoughtful expansion, including new locations in Muiden and Monnickendam.

The group’s philosophy of creating “a meeting place you won’t run out of and a place where you’ll make friends for life” aligns perfectly with the traditional, convivial nature that has made Piet de Leeuw a beloved institution for 75 years.

Experience a True Amsterdam Culinary Legend

Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw represents a rare opportunity to experience a genuine piece of Amsterdam’s culinary heritage in its original, historic setting. With its perfect steaks unchanged since 1949, authentic “brown café” atmosphere, and genuine “Mokum” hospitality, it offers both a connection to Dutch traditions and an exceptional dining experience in the heart of Amsterdam.

Find your way to Piet de Leeuw today and discover why this Amsterdam restaurant has earned its legendary status for 75 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “steakhouse” mean?

A steakhouse is a restaurant that specializes in serving steak and other meat-based dishes. At Piet de Leeuw, the steakhouse tradition is honored with exceptional beef and horse steaks prepared according to time-honored recipes.

Is Piet de Leeuw connected to Paul de Leeuw?

No, despite the shared surname, there is no connection between Steakhouse Piet de Leeuw and the Dutch television personality Paul de Leeuw. The restaurant is named after its founder, Piet de Leeuw, who established the steakhouse in 1949.

What is special about Piet de Leeuw steaks?

Piet de Leeuw steaks are renowned for being prepared according to a recipe unchanged since 1949. They are traditionally baked in butter and served with their signature sauce options, creating a distinctive flavor profile that has earned a loyal following for 75 years.

What is a “bruine kroeg” or brown café?

A “bruine kroeg” (brown café) is a traditional Dutch pub or tavern characterized by dark wood interiors, warm lighting, and a cozy, convivial atmosphere. The name comes from the wooden elements and walls that have darkened over decades from smoking (in the past) and aging. Piet de Leeuw exemplifies this traditional Dutch style.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends. You can book via the official website or by calling 06 – 8349 3873.

Does Piet de Leeuw offer lunch service?

Yes, lunch is available by reservation for groups of ten or more. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy their famous steaks during daytime hours.

Are vegetarian options available on the menu?

Yes, Piet de Leeuw offers thoughtful vegetarian dishes, including eggplant with harissa oil and vegetable quiche with fresh salad, ensuring all diners can find something to enjoy.