Amsterdam: 3-course dinner party at secret pop-up restaurant

Getting a taste of authentic Jamaican food in Amsterdam might not be what first comes to mind when planning a trip, but this unique dinner experience offers just that — with a twist. Held at a secret pop-up restaurant, this three-hour evening combines delicious cuisine with social interaction, making it a perfect choice for travelers eager to explore local flavors and meet new people in a relaxed setting.

What we love about this experience is the informal, communal vibe that turns a simple dinner into a memorable social event. The chef’s passion for Jamaican culture shines through in every dish and cocktail, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. Add to that the affordable price point of just $11, and it’s easy to see why this has quickly become a popular activity among visitors.

One potential consideration is that drinks are not included in the base price, which means you’ll want to budget extra for beverages. The opportunity to taste Chef Ash’s homemade cocktails and Jamaican soft drinks makes it worthwhile. This experience is best suited for adventurous eaters, social travelers, and those curious about Caribbean culture who love good food and engaging conversations.

Good To Know

• Authentic Jamaican Cuisine: Enjoy a well-curated three-course meal packed with genuine flavors.
• Shared Dining Atmosphere: The dinner is served in a dinner party style with one long table, fostering good conversation.
• Passionate Host: Chef Ash shares his love for Jamaican food, drinks, and culture in an engaging manner.
• Affordable Price: At only $11 per person (plus optional drinks), it offers great value for an authentic experience.
• Flexible Menus: Vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, and other dietary options are available on request.
• Social Connection: Perfect for travelers wanting to meet fellow diners, both locals and travelers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour offers a three-hour communal dining experience that combines great food, lively storytelling, and a chance to learn about Jamaican culture from Chef Ash himself. The journey starts with a flexible meeting point—either “Van der Madeweg 1” or “Ash’s Plek”—making it easy to fit into your Amsterdam plans.

The Dinner Itself

Once seated at the shared table, you’ll begin a three-course meal featuring the best of Jamaican cuisine. The menu can be tailored to dietary preferences, whether vegetarian, vegan, halal, or kosher, which ensures everyone can enjoy the flavors. The dishes are crafted with care, emphasizing freshness and balanced flavors — a bold contrast to typical tourist fare.

Between courses, Chef Ash gives insights into Jamaican food, drinks, and cultural traditions. Reviewers have praised his storytelling, noting how he elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s not just about eating; it’s about learning and experiencing Jamaica’s rich culinary history.

Drinks and Pairings

The experience’s drink offerings are a highlight. Chef Ash personally guides you through Jamaican cocktails, mocktails, beers, and soft drinks—many of which are homemade. Unlike many other tours, drinks aren’t included in the original $11 price but can be purchased separately with cash or card. Reviewers have particularly enjoyed the Jamaican cocktails, describing them as memorable and well-crafted, adding a festive touch to the evening.

Atmosphere and Social Vibe

The dinner party style creates an intimate yet lively environment. Guests, often from different backgrounds, quickly find common ground over shared plates and stories. As one reviewer noted, “After the first 10 minutes, we forgot we were eating with strangers.” This sense of camaraderie makes the experience stand out from regular restaurant dining.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Accessibility and Convenience

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the schedule typically lasts around three hours, with start times varying by availability. The flexibility to reserve and pay later offers peace of mind for flexible travelers.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

• Start Point: Guests can choose between two locations—either the “Van der Madeweg 1” or “Ash’s Plek,” depending on their booking. Both are conveniently located in North Holland.
• Duration: Expect around 3 hours from start to finish, including the meal, storytelling, and socializing.
• The Dinner: Focused on authenticity, the three courses are served in a communal setting, with Chef Ash guiding you through each dish and its background.
• End Point: The experience concludes back at the initial meeting point, making it easy to plan your further explorations in Amsterdam.

Authenticity and Value for Money

At just $11 per person, this experience offers immense value — especially considering the quality of the food, the intimate setting, and the cultural insights shared. Although drinks are additional, the ability to taste Chef Ash’s Jamaican cocktails and homemade soft drinks elevates the experience significantly.

One reviewer praised the authenticity, saying, “This was some of the best Jamaican food I’ve ever tasted,” which underscores the quality of the cuisine. The small, intimate setting and personal stories from Chef Ash turn the meal into a cultural exchange, rather than just a dinner.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

• The cost is incredibly reasonable for a three-hour, three-course meal with a lively host.
• The social aspect appeals to those who enjoy meeting new people over good food.
• The dietary flexibility ensures everyone can indulge without worry.
• The informative commentary about Jamaican culture and food enhances appreciation and understanding.
• The drinks — particularly the cocktails — add fun and flavor to the evening.

Who Should Try This?

This experience is an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or groups who love authentic food, cultural experiences, and social dining. It’s especially suited for those looking for an alternative to traditional restaurant dinners and interested in discovering local flavors in a cozy, friendly setting.

If you’re a foodie eager to try something new, or just want a relaxed, engaging night out in Amsterdam, this dinner party will not disappoint. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer more formal dining, this may not be the best fit.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or vegan set menu. The host is happy to accommodate special dietary needs.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included in the initial $11 price but can be purchased separately with cash or card, including cocktails, mocktails, beers, and soft drinks.

Where does the tour start?
The start location varies depending on your booking choice: either Van der Madeweg 1 or Ash’s Plek.

How long is the dinner?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including introduction, the meal, and socializing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.

What is the price of the full experience?
While the base cost is $11 per person, the full cost of the dinner experience is around $55, covering the entire meal and participation.

Can I expect a small or large group?
It’s a communal experience, typically involving a small, intimate group sharing at one long table, fostering conversation.

How do I pay for additional drinks?
You can pay for drinks using cash or all major cards, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.

What makes this dinner special?
The combination of authentic Jamaican cuisine, passionate storytelling from Chef Ash, and the social dinner-party style makes it a memorable, engaging night out.

Final Thoughts

This Jamaican dinner party in Amsterdam offers an authentic, affordable, and social way to explore Caribbean cuisine. The shared table format encourages meeting new friends, while Chef Ash’s hospitality and storytelling add depth and warmth to the evening. For adventurous eaters and those looking for a cultural experience beyond the typical tourist spots, it’s a fantastic choice.

The value for money is striking, considering the quality of food and the engaging atmosphere. Plus, the flexibility to customize your menu and the availability of excellent drinks make it a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a couple seeking a cozy night of flavor and fun, this dinner party promises a lively, authentic taste of Jamaica in Amsterdam.

In short, this is a memorable, affordable way to enjoy good food, good company, and a dash of Jamaican culture — all in the heart of Amsterdam.

You can check if your dates are available here: