Vuurtoreneiland: Amsterdam, Netherlands

If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime dinner experience, nothing comes close to Vuurtoreneiland. Vuurtoreneiland, also translated to lighthouse island, is a restaurant on a tiny island on the edge of the Ijsselmeer bay to the East of Amsterdam city centre. A boat takes you to this small, rugged island in the lJmeer with just a lighthouse, an old abandoned fort and a large greenhouse dining room. In the summer, you can dine in a temporary glass greenhouse whilst in the winter dinner is served in an underground bunker warmed by a fire and blankets.

One thing I really love about this experience is nothing is rushed. The ethos here is ‘eating in and of nature’ – a five-course seasonal set menu of the freshest local produce, prepared and cooked entirely on open flames. The food is spectacular, as is the glorious setting – all fauna, stray animals and weeping coastlines. but be warned: booking is essential.

To Book

Before you book Vuurtoreniland, there’s a couple things you should know. First, this is whole night commitment. The boat from the Lloyd Hotel dock leaves at 6:30pm and returns 5 hours later at 11:30pm. Second, you will need to book about 2 months in advance. There are sometimes a few last minute slots that open up, but it’s usually fully booked.

Once booked, this secures your reservation including a boat trip, aperitif and snacks on the boat, a 5 course menu, water, coffee and tea. Wines or drinks with dinner are extra and are paid for on the boat on your return. This costs €85 per person in the summer and €110 per person in the winter.

To book, click here. Warning again: the website is in Dutch. A pop-up box should appear in the right bottom corner with English. This is where you can make a reservation. If you’re ever in Amsterdam and have the time to do this, it will be one of the highlights of your trip.

There is also lodging on the island if you’re interested in staying overnight. I’m not too familiar with that experience, but I’ve heard and read nothing but great things. If you follow the link above, you can learn more.