Sama Sebo

Opened by Sebo Woldringh in 1969, Sama Sebo is regarded as the oldest Indonesian speciality restaurant in the Netherlands. Located on the P.C. Hooftstraat, just around the corner from the Rijksmuseum, it has introduced generations of guests to traditional Indonesian and Indo-Dutch cuisine.

The restaurant feels completely different from the fashionable boutiques surrounding it. Its dark wood, bamboo details, closely arranged tables and lively bar create a warm, informal atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Amsterdam brown café. The interior is nostalgic and slightly timeworn, which is an important part of Sama Sebo’s enduring charm.

The main attraction is the rijsttafel, or rice table: an elaborate selection of small dishes served together with rice. The experience combines different meats, vegetables, sauces, sambals and textures, allowing guests to sample a broad range of flavours during one meal. Expect dishes such as babi ketjap, daging Madura, chicken, satay, vegetables in coconut milk, gado-gado, fried banana and several traditional accompaniments.

Guests wanting a smaller meal can choose the Sama Sebo Special, which presents several signature dishes together on one plate, or order individual dishes from the menu.

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