Greenwoods Keizersgracht

Greenwoods Keizersgracht - Amsterdam

That iconic red awning along Amsterdam’s historic Keizersgracht canal signals something special ahead. Since opening its doors in 2012, Greenwoods Keizergracht has evolved from a local secret to an essential Amsterdam dining destination. I’ve watched this charming eatery cement its reputation as the city’s premier all-day breakfast spot. In this place, locals and travelers alike willingly queue for a taste of their legendary British-Dutch breakfast fusion.

Strategically positioned just off bustling Leidsestraat and a stone’s throw from Amsterdam’s famous flower market (Bloemenmarkt), Greenwoods occupies a prime spot in Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canal ring. The striking red awning and window boxes bursting with plants make it impossible to miss as you stroll along the historic Keizersgracht.

Getting There:

  • By Tram: Lines 2 and 12 stop at Keizersgracht (2-minute walk)
  • From Central Station: 15-minute tram ride or 25-minute scenic walk
  • From Museum Quarter: 10-minute tram ride or 20-minute walk through the charming Jordaan neighborhood

Local Insight: Morning canal views are magical from Greenwoods’ terrace. Arrive before 9:30 AM on weekends to snag these coveted outdoor seats before the crowds arrive.

Award-Winning All-Day Breakfast Menu ๐Ÿณ

Greenwoods serves their full breakfast menu from opening until close, creating the perfect antidote to jet lag or late Amsterdam nights. Their menu prices range from โ‚ฌ14.75 to โ‚ฌ16.95 for main breakfast dishes. The kitchen expertly blends British breakfast traditions with Dutch ingredients and global influences:

Must-Try Signature Dishes

British Classics with a Twist:

  • Full English Breakfast (โ‚ฌ16.95) โ€“ The definitive Amsterdam version featuring Greenwoods’ exclusive Cumberland sausage recipe, proper baked beans, and their famous crispy hash browns that regulars rave about
  • Classic Eggs Benedict with Smoked Ham โ€“ Perfectly poached eggs atop English muffins with housemade hollandaise sauce, distinctive for its light dusting of smoked paprika and fresh pea shoots

Dutch-Inspired Favorites:

  • “The Dutchman” โ€“ Amsterdam’s answer to a farmer’s breakfast with runny fried eggs, melted Gouda (from a local cheese shop), and premium Dutch smoked ham on artisanal sourdough
  • Greenwoods Shakshuka (โ‚ฌ13.75-โ‚ฌ15.25) โ€“ Their Mediterranean-Dutch fusion standout with spicy baked eggs in smokey paprika-tomato sauce topped with crumbled feta

Sweet Treats Worth The Calories:

  • The Pancake Breakfast (โ‚ฌ14.75) โ€“ Light, fluffy pancakes transformed with white chocolate mascarpone and their signature fruit compote made fresh daily
  • Classic Cream Tea โ€“ A rare find in Amsterdam, featuring authentic scones that rival any British tearoom

Dietary Inclusivity

Greenwoods excels at accommodating dietary requirements without compromising flavor:

  • Veggie Breakfast (โ‚ฌ15.95) featuring delicious plant-based alternatives
  • Vegan alternatives available for most popular dishes
  • Gluten-free options from a local specialized bakery
  • Allergen information clearly provided for all menu items

Chef’s Recommendation: The Veggie Breakfast Stack with wilted garlic spinach, herb sausage, and free-range poached eggs drizzled with hot maple honey consistently earns praise from even dedicated carnivores.

The Authentic Amsterdam Experience ๐ŸŒฟ

Atmospheric Setting

Greenwoods occupies a beautifully preserved canal house that embodies classic Amsterdam charm. The interior skillfully balances original architectural elements with contemporary touches:

Distinctive Features:

  • Award-winning canalside terrace โ€“ Consistently voted among Amsterdam’s top outdoor dining spots in local surveys
  • Historic interior โ€“ Original wooden beams, traditional windows, and exposed brick walls create authentic Dutch atmosphere
  • Strategic seating โ€“ The window tables offer postcard-worthy canal views while cozy corner banquettes provide intimacy
  • Evening transformation โ€“ After closing, the space becomes “Blackwoods,” offering a completely different dining concept focused on seasonal stews and Dutch comfort food

Genuine Sustainability Commitment

Unlike restaurants with surface-level “green” claims, Greenwoods implements meaningful environmental practices:

  • Amsterdam-sourced ingredients โ€“ Over 70% of ingredients come from within 50km of the city
  • Zero food waste program โ€“ Partnership with food rescue apps to minimize end-of-day waste
  • Conscious menu planning โ€“ Deliberately avoiding high-impact ingredients like avocados and focusing on seasonal Dutch produce
  • Recyclable materials used whenever possible

Planning Your Visit: Timing & Practical Details โฐ

Opening Hours (Verified April 2025)

DayHoursNotesMonday-Thursday9:00 AM - 4:00 PMKitchen closes at 3:30 PMFriday-Sunday9:00 AM - 4:00 PMKitchen closes at 3:30 PMPublic Holidays9:00 AM - 4:00 PMCheck social media for special holiday hours

Essential Visitor Information

  • No reservation system โ€“ Strictly first-come, first-served with digital waiting list at entrance
  • Average wait times โ€“ 10-15 minutes on weekdays, 30-45 minutes during weekend peak (10 AM – 1 PM)
  • Payment options โ€“ All major cards accepted; contactless payment preferred
  • Connectivity โ€“ Free high-speed Wi-Fi (password provided with menu)
  • Pet policy โ€“ Dogs welcome on terrace and in designated indoor areas
  • Accessibility โ€“ Step-free entrance available upon request (ring bell for assistance)

Insider Strategy: Visit on Mondays or Tuesdays for the shortest waits. If you must go on weekends, arrive before 9:30 AM or after 2:00 PM to minimize wait times. The restaurant typically serves their last customers 30 minutes before closing.

Value Assessment & Real Guest Experiences ๐Ÿ’ฌ

Amsterdam’s canal belt restaurants often charge premium prices, but Greenwoods delivers exceptional value through generous portions and high-quality ingredients. Main breakfast dishes (โ‚ฌ14.75-โ‚ฌ16.95) consistently provide enough food for a full meal, with many visitors noting they didn’t need lunch afterward.

By The Numbers: Customer Satisfaction

Based on analysis of verified customer reviews from multiple platforms:

  • Overall satisfaction: 4.1-4.5/5 stars across major review platforms
  • Food quality: 4.2/5 average based on recent ratings
  • Service: Consistently praised for kind and attentive staff
  • Atmosphere: Particularly noted for the beautiful canal-side setting

What Regulars Consistently Praise:

  • “Amazing food” in a “beautiful restaurant”
  • Excellent accommodations for dietary needs, particularly gluten-free options
  • Staff described as “very kind” who contribute to making Amsterdam visits “memorable”
  • Excellent tea selection from specialty providers

Honest Considerations:

  • Service occasionally feels rushed during peak hours (particularly Saturdays 11 AM-1 PM)
  • Expect a wait, though reviews suggest it’s “worth the wait”
  • Limited space between tables in the interior section
  • Some dishes sell out on busy days

Beyond Breakfast: Special Offerings & Events ๐ŸŽ‰

Greenwoods extends beyond standard breakfast service with several specialized offerings:

  • Traditional High Tea Experience โ€“ Available daily 12:00-3:00 PM with 24-hour advance booking
  • Private Canal-Side Events โ€“ Exclusive venue hire for groups of 15-25 people after regular hours
  • Seasonal Dutch Holiday Specials โ€“ Limited-time menu items for Koningsdag (King’s Day), Sinterklaas, and other Dutch celebrations
  • Homemade Retail Products โ€“ Their popular scones, jams, and specialty teas available for purchase to enjoy at home

Perfect For These Amsterdam Visitors

Greenwoods particularly excels for these traveler profiles:

  • Food-focused travelers seeking authentic local breakfast experiences
  • British visitors craving familiar breakfast classics with Dutch touches
  • Slow-travel enthusiasts who value quality dining experiences over rushed tourist meals
  • Solo female travelers appreciating the safe, welcoming atmosphere
  • Couples celebrating special occasions with canal-view tables
  • Small groups (2-6 people) who can be accommodated without extensive waits
  • Visitors with dietary restrictions requiring knowledgeable staff and clearly marked menus
  • Photography enthusiasts capturing Instagram-worthy food presentations and canal views

Connect & Stay Updated ๐Ÿ“ฑ

For the latest menu updates, holiday hours, and mouthwatering food photography:

Social Media Tip: Check their Instagram Stories on Friday mornings for weekend specials not listed on the regular menu.

Nearby Amsterdam Attractions

After enjoying your meal at Greenwoods Keizergracht, these nearby attractions make perfect follow-up activities:

  • Bloemenmarkt (Amsterdam Flower Market) โ€“ 5-minute walk
  • Nine Streets Shopping District โ€“ 7-minute walk
  • Amsterdam Museum โ€“ 10-minute walk
  • Rijksmuseum โ€“ 15-minute walk or 5-minute tram ride
  • Anne Frank House โ€“ 12-minute walk
  • Vondelpark โ€“ 15-minute walk

Walking times are approximate and based on the average pace from Greenwoods Keizergracht.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Greenwoods Keizergracht good for large groups?

Groups larger than 6 people may find it challenging, especially on weekends. For larger gatherings, consider their private event options or email them at least two weeks in advance.

Does Greenwoods take reservations?

Greenwoods operates strictly on a first-come, first-served basis for regular service. The only exception is for their High Tea service, which requires 24-hour advance booking.

What’s the price range for breakfast at Greenwoods?

Main breakfast dishes range from โ‚ฌ14.75-โ‚ฌ16.95, with add-ons costing โ‚ฌ2.50-โ‚ฌ4.50. A typical breakfast with coffee averages โ‚ฌ20-25 per person.

Is Greenwoods accessible for visitors with mobility limitations?

The main entrance has one step, but staff can arrange step-free access via a side entrance. The interior has limited space between tables, but the canal-side terrace is more accessible when weather permits.