Loetje Amsterdam Café

Loetje Amsterdam Café is where one of the Netherlands’ best-known restaurant stories began. Ludwig ‘Loetje’ Klinkhamer opened this location on Johannes Vermeerstraat in 1977 as a neighbourhood billiard café. After tenderloin steak appeared on the menu and quickly became the main attraction, the billiard tables gradually disappeared and Loetje developed into an Amsterdam institution.

Although Loetje now has restaurants throughout the Netherlands, this original location remains the most meaningful place to experience the concept. The atmosphere feels closer to a lively Amsterdam café than a conventional steakhouse, with an informal interior, straightforward service and a spacious terrace. Its location in Amsterdam-Zuid, within walking distance of Museumplein and De Pijp, makes it convenient for both residents and visitors.

The signature dish is tenderloin steak served in Loetje’s famous foaming jus with slices of soft white bread for dipping. Steaks are cooked medium rare unless requested otherwise. The standard small steak weighs 150 grams, while hungrier visitors can upgrade to the 195-gram Klassieker or the 300-gram XL.

Several variations are available. The original Biefstuk Ossenhaas comes with the classic Loetje jus, while Biefstuk Bali adds sambal for a spicier finish. Other choices include garlic jus and De Roode Waard, served with onions, chicken livers and bacon. A meat-free Biefstuk 0.0 is also available.

Fries, salad, grilled vegetables, mushrooms and onions are ordered separately. Beyond steak, the extensive menu includes steak tartare, beef carpaccio, shrimp croquettes, North Sea sole, tuna steak, schnitzel, calf’s liver, burgers, risotto and several vegetarian dishes. Loetje also serves lunch, bar snacks, desserts and a children’s menu.

Other Locations:
Loetje Centraal - City Centre
Loetje de Pijp - Pijp
Loetje aan 't IJ - North
Loetje Oost - East
Loetje Zuidas - South