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

Amsterdam: 3-course dinner party at secret pop-up restaurant offers a refreshingly different way to taste the flavors of Jamaica right in the heart of North Holland. For just $11 per person, you’re invited to an evening of delicious food, engaging company, and cultural storytelling that lasts around three hours. The dinner takes place at a secret location, which adds an element of anticipation and intimacy, making it perfect for curious travelers looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

What we love most about this experience is the shared dinner style, which encourages lively conversations and a sense of community among strangers. Plus, the passion Chef Ash brings when explaining Jamaican food and culture adds a personal touch that elevates the meal beyond just eating. Another highlight? The unique Jamaican cocktails and soft drinks—we’re told they’re memorable, and they certainly add a special flavor to the evening.

A potential consideration is that drinks are not included in the base price, so you’ll want to budget extra for beverages, which you can pay for conveniently with cash or card. Also, since it’s a secret pop-up, the exact meeting points can vary depending on your booking, so make sure to check your confirmation for details. This experience suits those who enjoy trying new cuisines, meeting people, and learning about different cultures in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Jamaican cuisine served in a cozy, communal environment
• Shared dining table fosters great conversations and new connections
• Chef Ash’s passion and storytelling add depth to the meal
• Affordable price point makes this a great value for a unique experience
• Flexible menus available for vegetarian, vegan, halal, and kosher preferences
• Memorable cocktails and drinks highlight Jamaican culture
• Accessible and flexible booking options allow you to reserve and pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Imagine walking into a secret location in Amsterdam, feeling a bit of intrigue before you’re greeted by Chef Ash. This is not a typical restaurant setup but rather a dinner party style gathering, where all guests sit together at the same long dining table. The setup creates an inviting and lively atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want more than just a meal — they want a story, a taste of culture, and new friends.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: The experience begins at one of two possible locations, either at Van der Madeweg 1 or Ashs Plek — the exact spot varies based on your booking. This flexibility allows for a seamless start, whether you’re arriving from different parts of Amsterdam or nearby.

The Meal: Over three hours, Chef Ash serves a three-course Jamaican feast. While the menu options include vegetarian and vegan choices, the star here is the authentic flavors. From the first bite, you’ll notice the care put into each dish — the freshness, the balance of spices, and the presentation. Guests consistently praise the high quality of the food and the generous portions.

The Cultural Talk: Between courses, Chef Ash shares insights into Jamaican food and drink culture, making the meal not just about taste but about understanding. You might learn about the significance of certain ingredients or the stories behind traditional drinks, such as Jamaican cocktails and soft drinks.

Ending the Night: After the meal, you’ll return to the starting point, often feeling more connected to the culture and to your fellow diners.

What You’ll Actually Eat

Guests rave about the authentic Jamaican dishes, describing them as some of the best they’ve ever tasted — even for picky eaters. The reviews mention careful attention to flavor and presentation, with one reviewer noting, “The food was incredibly fresh, and you could tell that so much care had been put into not only the taste but also the presentation.”

Chef Ash’s Jamaican cocktails and soft drinks are said to be a highlight, with travelers noting that they’re “memorable” and add an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

The Social Aspect

The dinner party format is perfect for travelers eager to meet new people — locals, fellow travelers, and foodies alike. One reviewer shared that “after the first 10 minutes,” they forgot they were strangers, emphasizing how welcoming and warm the atmosphere feels. It’s a chance to share stories, laughs, and perhaps a little dance or two—Jamaican culture is lively, and that spirit shows through.

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The Cost and Value

While the main price is just $11, the full cost of the experience is listed as $55, covering the meal and the cultural storytelling. Drinks are paid separately, so budget around an additional amount for beverages. Considering the quality of the food and the unique culture, the value is quite good, especially as it’s a rare opportunity to dine in such a personal, intimate setting.

Why This Experience Resonates

Many guests highlight how Chef Ash’s friendliness and storytelling made the meal more meaningful. They appreciate that the attention to detail extends beyond just the food — it’s about creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels like part of a Jamaican celebration. The reviews also emphasize how fresh, flavorful, and well-presented the dishes are, making this a standout among casual dining options in Amsterdam.

For travelers seeking a cultural twist on their trip, this dinner offers a hands-on taste of Jamaican life. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in meeting fellow travelers or locals, and if you’re open to new flavors and stories that go beyond the typical tourist fare.

Who Would Love This

• Food enthusiasts eager to try authentic Jamaican dishes
• Travelers seeking cultural experiences off the usual tourist trail
• Solo travelers or couples looking for intimate, social dining
• Those interested in stories and drinks that reflect Jamaican culture
• Travelers on a budget who want great value for a memorable evening
• People with dietary needs — vegetarian, vegan, halal, and kosher options are available upon request

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Book in advance since spots are limited and the experience is popular
• Be prepared to pay extra for drinks; bring cash or card
• Check your booking confirmation for the exact meeting point — it can vary
• Arrive ready for a casual, friendly atmosphere and a shared experience
• If you have dietary restrictions, request menu accommodations when booking
• Consider arriving a bit early to soak in the ambiance and meet fellow diners
• Expect to spend around three hours, so plan your evening accordingly

FAQ

Is the price of $11 per person the total cost?
No, $11 is the basic price, but the full experience costs around $55, which includes the three-course meal and cultural storytelling. Drinks are paid separately.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, you can choose a vegetarian or vegan-friendly set menu, and accommodations for halal, kosher, or other diets can be requested.

Where do we meet for the dinner?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking, either at Van der Madeweg 1 or Ashs Plek. Check your reservation details for the exact location.

Can I pay for drinks at the event?
Yes, drinks are not included in the base price and can be paid for with cash or card (all major cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay).

How long does the experience last?
The dinner party lasts approximately three hours, including the meal, storytelling, and social time.

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

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Jamaican dinner party in Amsterdam offers more than just a meal — it’s an experience rooted in culture, community, and flavor. The shared table format, coupled with Chef Ash’s genuine storytelling and delicious food, creates an atmosphere where you’re not just a spectator but an active participant in a Jamaican celebration. It’s perfect for those wanting to try something new, connect with others, and enjoy authentic cuisine at a very reasonable price.

Whether you’re a solo traveler craving a new story to tell, a couple looking for a cozy, engaging evening, or a foodie eager for authentic flavors, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression. Just come hungry, open-minded, and ready to enjoy a genuine taste of Jamaica in the vibrant city of Amsterdam.

You can check availability for your dates here: