Amsterdam: 3 Course Dinner in the Dark

Experience food like never before at the Amsterdam: 3 Course Dinner in the Dark, a captivating activity that combines dining with sensory discovery. Priced at $59 per person and lasting 2 hours, this tour offers an unusual twist on the traditional restaurant experience. Located at Amsteldijk 55, Amsterdam, the venue features a pitch-black dining room served by blind or visually impaired wait staff who are specially trained to guide guests through their meal in total darkness.

This experience stands out for its focus on re-awakening your senses, encouraging guests to experience taste, sound, and touch in a completely new way. While the experience is immersive and often highly praised, it’s important to note that drinks and additional courses are not included**, and guests should be prepared for a quiet, sensory-focused environment. It suits those curious about sensory perceptions, food lovers eager for a novel experience, or anyone seeking a memorable activity that encourages breaking from the ordinary.

Key Points

• Price of $59 per person makes this an accessible yet unique dining experience.
• 2-hour duration provides ample time for a full course meal and sensory exploration.
• Served in complete darkness by blind wait staff, adding authenticity and a sense of trust.
• Highlights include tasting new sensations and discovering how blindness influences perception.
• Location at Amsteldijk 55 is accessible via tram, metro, or walking, with clear directions.
• Catering to sensory discovery makes this experience particularly engaging for those interested in sensory awareness or food innovation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Dark Dining Venue in Amsterdam: Amsteldijk 55

The restaurant’s location at Amsteldijk 55 places it conveniently in North Holland, with easy access by tram (stops at T3 and T4), metro (Wibautstraat station), and Amsterdam Amstel train station, just a 10-minute walk away. Visitors arriving from central Amsterdam can walk in approximately 25 minutes or choose a short bike ride along the Amstel River.

The venue’s setting in a quiet, lighted lounge area ensures arrival comfort before entering the pitch-dark dining room. Guests check coats or bags in the cloakroom, unburdened of possessions, as mobile phones and cameras are stored in lockers to preserve the darkness experience.

The dark dining room itself is designed to enhance the sensory journey, with the wait staff guiding guests carefully through each step of the meal. The location is wheelchair accessible, making it open to a broad range of visitors.

What a 2-Hour Experience in Complete Darkness Entails

The core of this activity is a 3-course dinner that emphasizes taste and touch over sight. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a lighted lounge, then guided into the blackened dining space once they’ve ordered. The blind wait staff are specially trained to assist and provide reassurance, creating an environment of trust and calm.

The experience encourages guests to rely on their other senses as they explore the flavors and textures of each dish. Two amuse bouche set the tone for a multi-sensory journey. Drinks are not included, so guests might opt for an aperitif beforehand, but they should expect to enjoy their meals in complete darkness.

The meals are designed to be delicious and thoughtfully prepared, with no extreme ingredients such as insects, bones, or fats, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. The room is quiet, allowing full focus on the sensory aspects of dining, although some reviews note that loud or distracted guests can diminish the atmosphere.

What’s Included in the Dinner Experience?

The price of $59 covers a 3-course dinner, along with 2 amuse bouche that serve as palate openers. The meal takes place at a private table, ensuring an intimate setting for each group. The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to savor each course and fully engage with your senses.

Guests do not need to worry about water, drinks, or extra courses, as these are not included. However, the experience emphasizes the visual element — candlelight is not part of the experience, and no additional items such as sorbet, cheese plates, or infrared pictures are included.

The Guides: Blind Wait Staff and Their Role

The blind or visually impaired wait staff are a crucial part of this experience. They are specially trained to serve meals in total darkness and to offer guidance and reassurance to sighted guests. Reviews praise their professionalism and friendliness, noting that they exceed expectations in their attentive service.

The staff’s ability to navigate in darkness and serve meals with skill helps create a trusting and relaxed environment, which is essential for those unfamiliar with dining in total darkness. Their kindness and competence are often highlighted as a major strength of this activity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips for Your Visit to the Dark Dinner

Visitors should arrive in comfortable clothing, avoiding white or reflective apparel to prevent any issues in the dark. The venue is wheelchair accessible, but guests should note that pets and smoking are not allowed on-site.

A candle is present during the dinner, but it is not optional and should be expected. Mobile phones and cameras are stored securely, so guests should enjoy the moment without distractions. If guests want an aperitif, they can arrive early, as there’s time before entering the darkness.

The room can be cold, so dressing warmly is advisable. Some reviews mention that wait staff may not be immediately visible or responsive during the meal, so patience is helpful.

The Experience: Unique and Sensory-Driven

The core appeal of this tour is its ability to transform your perception of food. Without sight, taste, smell, sound, and touch become the main senses. Guests report discovering new taste sensations and experiencing a heightened awareness of textures and flavors.

Many praise the professionalism of the staff, delicious food, and the quiet atmosphere. Several reviews mention that laughs and surprises are common, especially with friends or family. The experience can be both fun and contemplative, often leaving a lasting impression.

While some note the room can be loud or cold, or suggest that waiters could check more frequently, the overall sentiment is highly positive. The value for money and quality of service make this activity a memorable addition to a trip to Amsterdam.

Audience for this Dark Dinner Experience

This activity works well for food lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in understanding how blindness affects perception. It is suitable for those comfortable with quiet, sensory-focused environments and willing to trust the guides.

People traveling solo or in groups find the shared experience especially enjoyable, as many reviews highlight laughter and bonding. The 2-hour duration fits well into a day’s itinerary if you want an activity that is both fun and meaningful.

The Sum Up: A Unique Sensory Journey in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s 3 Course Dinner in the Dark offers a fascinating departure from typical dining experiences. For $59, guests enjoy a well-organized, 2-hour journey into a world of heightened senses, served by professional blind wait staff in a carefully designed setting. The location is easy to reach and accessible, making it a convenient choice for a special evening.

This activity is best suited for those curious about **sensory perception or seeking a memorable, engaging meal. While it is not ideal for those who prefer loud environments or quick service, many reviews highlight the warmth of the staff, delicious food, and the lasting memories created during this quiet, contemplative experience.

If you’re ready for an activity that challenges your senses and offers a new perspective on eating, this dining in the dark experience in Amsterdam is definitely worth trying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the dinner experience suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all guests.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks and water are not included. Guests can enjoy an aperitif beforehand if desired.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. Avoid white or reflective clothing, as it’s best to stay unobtrusive in the dark.

Can I bring my phone or camera?
No, mobile phones and cameras are stored in lockers to preserve the darkness experience.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours from arrival to departure.

Is it appropriate for children?
The information does not specify age restrictions; however, the experience’s quiet and sensory nature suggests it’s best suited for older children and adults.

What if I need to leave early or have special needs?
Guests should inform staff upon arrival; the venue is wheelchair accessible, but specific arrangements should be discussed in advance.

What makes this tour unique compared to other dinner options in Amsterdam?
The focus on dining in total darkness, served by blind wait staff, combined with the sensory discovery element, sets it apart from conventional restaurants, providing an immersive and thought-provoking experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby