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Umeno is one of Amsterdam’s most authentic Japanese restaurants. Opened in 1978, it offers an intimate omakase experience for just 15 guests, led by Chef Atsuhito Hosono. With seasonal, carefully aged fish, traditional craftsmanship, a refined sake selection, and a serene Japanese interior, Umeno is a must-visit for travelers seeking true Japanese cuisine in Amsterdam. Reservations are essential.
Tucked away in Amsterdam-Zuid, Umeno is one of the city’s most quietly extraordinary dining experiences—and a true destination for travelers seeking authenticity rather than trends.
Opened in 1978, Umeno was among the very first sushi and sashimi restaurants in Amsterdam and in the Netherlands. More than four decades later, it remains a rare place where Japanese culinary tradition is preserved with humility, precision, and deep respect. Today, the restaurant is led by Chef Atsuhito “Atsu” Hosono, who continues the legacy with the same craftsmanship and philosophy that defined the original kitchen.
The restaurant itself is intimate and serene, seating only around 15 guests. Inside, you’ll find authentic Japanese wooden furnishings that immediately transport you away from the city and into a traditional Tokyo dining room. Service is warm and personal, with Chef Hosono’s son Shion welcoming guests, reinforcing the feeling that you are dining in a family home rather than a commercial restaurant.
Umeno is open just four evenings a week and serves a single omakase menu for everyone. This carefully curated tasting menu typically consists of around eleven courses, including otsumami (small seasonal bites), sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, a maki course, miso soup, and dessert. Fish is aged in-house to allow flavors to develop naturally, and two different types of sushi vinegar are used depending on the ingredients, details that true food lovers will appreciate. The menu evolves with the seasons and availability, ensuring every visit feels unique.
To accompany the food, Umeno offers an excellent sake selection as well as a concise wine list. Both come with clear flavor profiles, making it easy, even for newcomers, to find the perfect pairing.
Dining at Umeno is not about spectacle or speed. It is about calm, focus, and intention. For tourists visiting Amsterdam who want to experience one of the city’s most genuine and respected Japanese restaurants, Umeno is an unforgettable choice.
Reservations are absolutely essential.
