Choosing a French restaurant in Amsterdam: discover Brasserie Lenny
French cooking with an Amsterdam soul in a former church
When Amsterdammers look for the city’s best French restaurant, they think of candlelight, a good sauce and somewhere that takes food seriously without feeling formal. That is what Brasserie Lenny offers, in a setting that makes an impression before you have tasted anything.
Brasserie Lenny occupies the former church building at James Wattstraat 56-58 in Amsterdam East, part of Chassé Hotel Residency. The bright conservatory, green wall, bar and terrace overlooking a low-traffic square give the brasserie a character of its own.
What makes it French?
The kitchen uses classic French techniques: beurre noisette for fish, bourguignon as a slow-cooked stew and a charcuterie board you might find in Lyon. The approach is distinctly Amsterdam: direct, without fuss and with recognisable ingredients.
Concept developer Ramon Beuk put it this way:
"It needs to feel familiar to international hotel guests, while we offer local residents a distinctive neighbourhood character that still surprises them."
— Ramon Beuk, concept developer at Brasserie Lenny
The menu
The dinner menu features Cabillaud au Beurre Noisette (€ 25.50), Entrecôte Grillée and Brined and Grilled Aubergine. Charcuterie à partager costs € 17.50. Wine by the glass starts at € 5. See the current menu for all dishes, prices and allergens.
Déjeuner 3 Services is a three-course lunch for € 27.50: soup, a choice of main and cake of the week. Available Wednesday–Sunday from 11:30.
Why Het Parool took notice
In October 2026, Het Parool published a review by Dylan van Eijkeren. It described the location as a “blank canvas” that had spent three years searching for a purpose and had now found one.
"In few places in Amsterdam East does the sun sink westwards quite so magnificently."
— Het Parool, Dylan van Eijkeren — October 2026
Frequently asked questions
What is the best French restaurant in Amsterdam?
It depends on your taste, budget and occasion. Lenny at James Wattstraat 56-58 offers French dishes, a bright conservatory and a terrace. Het Parool described the concept as “French with an Amsterdam twist”.
Is Brasserie Lenny expensive?
Three-course lunch € 27.50; Cabillaud au Beurre Noisette € 25.50 and charcuterie à partager € 17.50 on the dinner menu. Wine starts at € 5 per glass. Check the menu for current prices.
Is Lenny suitable for a business dinner?
Yes. Mention your business meeting when booking and any preferences for your table or the pace of the evening. The team will help, subject to availability.
When is Brasserie Lenny open?
Kitchen Wednesday–Sunday 11:30–22:00. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Reserve at Brasserie Lenny
James Wattstraat 56-58, 1097 DM Amsterdam Oost.
Kitchen Wednesday–Sunday 11:30–22:00. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
