Description
Yattsu Sushi serves some of the best Japanese food around, and it’s a spot I’d happily recommend to friends. After years of eating my way through Amsterdam’s sushi scene, I’d say this one’s worth seeking out.
Step inside and you’ll catch the aroma of freshly prepared sushi, usually alongside a warm welcome from the staff. The decor mixes modern minimalism with traditional Japanese touches, including cherry blossoms and calligraphy.
Let’s be honest, though: most of us come for the food. Yattsu’s menu covers Japanese favourites, with plenty of sushi to choose from.
The chefs turn out everything from classic nigiri to inventive fusion rolls. The fish tastes exceptionally fresh, and the signature Yattsu Roll is a highlight: crispy tempura shrimp, creamy avocado and a secret sauce I’d love to get my hands on.
Key Features
Here’s what makes Yattsu Sushi stand out:
- Fresh as can be: The ingredients are top-notch, and you can taste the difference in every bite.
- Creative menu: Yattsu gets the classics right, but the chefs also have fun with their inventive fusion rolls.
- Sake selection: If you’re a sake fan, you’re in for a treat. The menu is extensive and thoughtfully put together.
- Vegetarian and vegan options: Plant-based diners have plenty to choose from, including some seriously tasty veggie sushi.
- Omakase experience: Feeling adventurous? Try the chef’s choice omakase and see what comes out.
- Cozy atmosphere: The intimate setting works well for a date night or a catch-up with friends.
The staff know their sushi and are happy to recommend dishes or explain something unfamiliar. I once asked about a fish I hadn’t tried before, and the waiter gave me a quick rundown of its origins and flavour. That kind of helpfulness makes a difference.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on the sort of meal you’re after.
For a more relaxed experience, try lunch. The lunch specials are good value, and you’re more likely to find a table without booking ahead. There’s something rather nice about treating yourself to sushi in the middle of a workday, too. I’ve done it more often than my wallet would recommend.
Dinner takes a little more planning. Yattsu draws plenty of locals and visitors, so it can fill up, especially at weekends. If you fancy sushi and sake in the evening, book a table; around 7 pm is a good time to catch the dinner crowd.
Visiting between May and September? See if you can get a spot on Yattsu’s small outdoor terrace. It’s a lovely place to enjoy sushi and watch Amsterdam go by on a warm evening.
Yattsu stays open until midnight on weekends, which makes it handy for a late-night sushi craving. Sometimes a Dragon Roll at 11 pm is exactly what you need.
How to Get There
Yattsu Sushi is easy to reach, which is good news if you’re already hungry. You’ll find it in the Jordaan, one of Amsterdam’s most charming neighbourhoods.
From the city centre, you’ve got a few options:
- On foot: If you fancy a stroll, it’s about 15-20 minutes from Dam Square. You’ll get some lovely canal views along the way, too.
- By bike: Renting a bike is easy around the city, and the ride to Yattsu takes about 5-10 minutes.
- Public transport: Take tram line 13 or 17 to Westermarkt. From there, Yattsu is a short 3-minute walk.
If you’re coming from further away, Rokin is the nearest metro station, around a 10-minute walk from the restaurant. You can also take a taxi or an Uber if you’d rather not walk.
Nearby, look for the sleek black storefront with minimalist Japanese characters. And if you lose your way, ask someone nearby; locals are usually happy to point you in the right direction.
Tips for Visiting
A few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Make a reservation: Book ahead for dinner or a weekend visit so you don’t risk missing out.
- Try the omakase: If you’re feeling adventurous (and don’t mind spending a bit more), let the chef choose. It’s a lovely meal, and every omakase I’ve tried here has been excellent.
- Sake it to me: Give the sake a try. Even if it’s not usually your thing, the staff can suggest a bottle to go with your meal.
- Save room for dessert: The matcha tiramisu is well worth ordering.
- Learn a few Japanese phrases: The staff will appreciate an “arigatou” (thank you) or “oishii” (delicious). It’s fun to try, too!
- Dress code: Yattsu isn’t especially formal, but smart casual is a safer choice than flip-flops and board shorts.
- Bring cash: The restaurant accepts cards, though some smaller purchases might be cash only. It’s handy to have a few euros with you.
- Be open-minded: Some of my favourite dishes at Yattsu were things I’d never tried before. Ask questions and see what takes your fancy.
Here’s a little secret: visit during the week and mention that it’s your birthday (if it really is, of course), and you might get a surprise. I won’t spoil it, but there may be something sweet and a very enthusiastic “Happy Birthday” in Japanese.
After your meal, take a wander around the Jordaan. The narrow streets, quirky shops and cosy brown cafés make for a lovely Amsterdam stroll.
