Restaurant 212, Amsterdam

Restaurant 212 is an intimate, two‑Michelin‑star, rock‑’n’-roll chef’s counter on the Amstel, created by Richard van Oostenbrugge and Thomas Groot after their years at two‑star Bord’Eau. As Amsterdam’s first no‑table restaurant, everyone sits at a warm wooden counter wrapped around the open kitchen, giving the room a buzzing, informal, almost bar‑like energy while keeping the comfort of fine dining. The chefs’ vision is “fewer rules, more experience” with a rebellious edge they strip away stiff etiquette so the focus is on bold flavour, craftsmanship and direct interaction with the team in front of you. The tasting menu is produce‑driven and playful, rooted in European technique yet open to global influences, with vegetables, seafood and meat treated with equal respect. The deep, international wine list leans into pleasure with classic labels, small avant‑garde producers, rock‑’n’-roll pairings by the glass and thoughtful alcohol‑free options, serving lunch and dinner seatings.