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

Discovering a Hidden Jamaican Gem in Amsterdam

Our review of the three-course dinner party at a secret pop-up restaurant in Amsterdam highlights a truly unique way to enjoy authentic Jamaican food in the city. This experience, offered by Ashs Plek, isn’t your typical dinner reservation. Instead, it combines great food, lively social interaction, and an insightful cultural commentary from Chef Ash himself, all in an intimate setting. The entire event lasts around three hours and is designed to foster connections among guests while savoring some of the best Jamaican dishes you’ll find outside the Caribbean.

What I particularly appreciate about this experience is how accessible it is for travelers and locals alike. For just $11 per person (a deposit), you get an incredible value considering the quality and atmosphere. Plus, the fact that you share a long, communal table means you’re likely to meet interesting people and exchange stories, turning a simple dinner into a memorable social event. The personal touch from Chef Ash, who shares his passion for Jamaican culture, makes the meal feel both authentic and warm.

One possible consideration is the price of drinks, which are not included in the main fee. You’ll want to budget some extra cash or card payments for cocktails, beers, or soft drinks. But, based on reviews, the drinks—especially Chef Ash’s signature Jamaican cocktails—are well worth it. This is a fabulous way to kick off or wind down a trip in Amsterdam, especially if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual tourist fare.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Jamaican Cuisine: The menu is designed to showcase the best flavors of Jamaica, with options for vegetarians and vegans, and accommodations for halal, kosher, or other dietary needs.
• Social Dining: Sharing a long table with strangers encourages conversation, laughter, and making new friends.
• Chef Ash’s Passion: The chef shares stories and insights about Jamaican food, drinks, and culture—adding depth to the meal.
• Signature Drinks: Don’t miss Chef Ash’s homemade cocktails, soft drinks, and expertly paired beverages, which often receive glowing reviews.
• Flexible Booking & Payment: Reserve with a small deposit, pay the balance at the event, and cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.
• Unique Experience: This isn’t just about the food, but about experiencing Jamaica in Amsterdam—through flavors, stories, and shared joy.

An Authentic Jamaican Dinner in the Heart of Amsterdam

I like my travel experiences to be genuine, and this dinner party delivers just that. It’s held at a secret location, with two starting points—either Van der Madeweg 1 or Ashs Plek—which adds a fun sense of mystery. Once you arrive, the atmosphere is cozy, intimate, and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed evening.

The three-course meal is the centerpiece, and Chef Ash takes care to guide you through each dish, explaining what makes it special. The menu is carefully curated to reflect traditional Jamaican flavors, and you’ll notice the freshness and vibrant presentation of each course. Based on reviews, even those who are usually picky eaters find themselves pleasantly surprised by how delicious the food is, with one guest describing it as “some of the best Jamaican food I’ve ever tasted.”

What makes this experience stand out is the dinner party style. Instead of a formal, sit-down affair, everyone shares a communal table, which fosters conversation and camaraderie among diners. Guests often leave with new friends and a deeper appreciation for Jamaican culture, thanks to Chef Ash’s storytelling. His enthusiasm is contagious, and he’s eager to share insights into Jamaican cocktails, traditional dishes, and drinks culture—think Bob Marley and Usain Bolt, but in culinary form.

Between courses, Chef Ash shares his passion and knowledge, making the meal as much an educational journey as a feast. The soft drinks and cocktails are standout features—refreshing, flavorful, and often homemade—adding an extra layer of enjoyment.

The value for the price is impressive. For just $11, you get the experience, the food, and the chance to meet new people. The full experience costs around 55, which includes the meal and the social environment. Drinks are paid separately, but reviews suggest they’re worth splurging on.

Breaking Down the Experience

Arrival and Starting Point

You can choose between two meeting points, which adds flexibility and a sense of adventure. Arriving at either location, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere and a group of fellow food lovers eager to begin. The secretive aspect of the location adds to the fun, making the whole event feel like a hidden treasure in Amsterdam.

The Three-Course Meal

Expect a thoughtfully prepared menu featuring authentic Jamaican dishes. The menu caters to various dietary restrictions—vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher—making it inclusive. During the meal, Chef Ash explains each dish’s background, which enriches the tasting experience. Guests often comment on how fresh and full of flavor the food is, with a clear emphasis on quality ingredients and presentation.

Social Atmosphere

Sharing a long table with strangers might sound intimidating, but it quickly becomes a highlight. Guests report that conversations flow easily, and the environment is lively but cozy. It’s an opportunity not just to eat but to connect, share stories, and perhaps even swap travel tips.

Drinks & Beverages

Chef Ash’s cocktails are specifically praised, with reviews mentioning that they’re some of the best Jamaican drinks around. Soft drinks are homemade, adding an authentic touch. Beers and wines are available, with all major cards accepted for payment.

The Sum Up of the Evening

The event wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a full belly and a new appreciation for Jamaican cuisine. Many guests note that the experience made their trip more memorable and that they would recommend it to anyone wanting a different kind of night out in Amsterdam.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This dinner is perfect if you enjoy interactive dining, authentic cuisine, and meeting new people. It suits travelers looking for a fun, relaxed atmosphere rather than a formal restaurant setting. It’s also ideal for those curious about Jamaican culture or wanting to try something different from the usual Dutch fare.

If you appreciate knowledgeable hosts who share their passion and stories, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression. It’s especially good for food lovers, social butterflies, or anyone seeking a memorable introduction to Caribbean flavors in the Netherlands.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 3 hours, with starting times depending on your booking.
• Price: $11 deposit, full price around 55 (drinks paid separately).
• Location: Two starting points, both in North Holland, Amsterdam.
• Reservations: Flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
• Language: English-speaking guide and host.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the price of $11 per person just a deposit?
Yes, it’s a small deposit to secure your spot. The full cost is approximately 55, which covers the meal and the experience. Drinks are paid for separately at the event.

Can I request special diets?
Absolutely. The menu offers vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, and other accommodations upon request, making it inclusive for various dietary needs.

Where exactly does the dinner take place?
The location varies depending on your chosen starting point—either Van der Madeweg 1 or Ashs Plek—both in Amsterdam North Holland. The exact address is shared after booking.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase Jamaican cocktails, beers, wines, or soft drinks separately, often at a good value.

How long is the event?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the food, conversation, and cultural insights.

Is this experience suitable for large groups?
It’s designed for small, intimate groups, typically with other travelers and locals, fostering genuine conversations.

This secret Jamaican dinner party in Amsterdam offers more than just a meal. It’s a chance to taste authentic flavors, connect with new friends, and enjoy a lively cultural exchange—all for a very reasonable price. Perfect for adventurous eaters, social souls, and anyone wanting a memorable local experience.