nNea Pizza

If you're in Amsterdam and you want the best pizza in the city, you’re going to need to make a reservation at nNea. I mean that literally — no joke. My friend Sophie tried showing up on a Saturday night without one and the host basically gave her a look like she’d suggested eating the menu. It’s that kind of place. But trust me, it’s worth the effort. nNea is in Oud-West, on Bilderdijkstraat, and it’s tiny — maybe twenty seats — but it’s one of those spots that makes you feel like you’re in someone’s kitchen, not a restaurant. The wood-fired oven is right in the middle of the room, and the smell hits you the second you walk in. It’s not fancy, but it’s warm and buzzing in a way that makes you want to stay a while.

The pizza here is Neapolitan-style, and not just any Neapolitan — it’s the kind that makes Italian people like my coworker Marco actually smile instead of grimace. The dough is fermented for 72 hours, which gives it that chewy, pillowy texture that makes the crust taste like it was made in Naples. The margherita is the star, with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It’s simple but it’s not simple. The crust is charred in the right spots and light enough that you don’t feel like you’ve swallowed a brick. There are a few seasonal toppings, but the classics are the ones to get. If you’re into it, the quattro pomodori or amatriciana are solid choices too. They even have a vegan option, which is nice.

I’ve been to nNea a few times, and the vibe is intimate, casual, and definitely not for large groups. You can’t just walk in. Reservations are essential — I’d say two to three weeks ahead for weekends. Weeknights are a little easier, but don’t count on it. If you’re going to go, go early. I’ve seen people show up around 7 and get turned away. It’s not that they’re rude, it’s just that the place is booked. You can order takeaway, but honestly, don’t. The pizza is meant to be eaten immediately, while the oven is still hot, and the experience of being in that tiny, warm room with the heat and the smell is part of what makes it special.

The prices are surprisingly reasonable for what you’re getting. A pizza is between 12 and 16 euros, and a full dinner with wine is under 40 euros per person. It’s not cheap, but it’s not a splurge either. I’ve seen people go for the margherita and a glass of wine and walk out happy. It’s the kind of place where you don’t feel like you’re paying for a show — you’re just paying for good food and a good time.

The only downsides are what you’d expect: it’s packed, it’s tiny, and it’s booked weeks in advance. It’s also cash only, so make sure you have that ready. If you’re going to the city for a few days and you want to eat like a local, this is the place to go. Just don’t show up without a reservation — you’ll be disappointed. If you’re looking for a place that feels like it was made by someone who loves pizza and knows how to make it, nNea is it. I’ve seen people come back multiple times, and I’ve never seen anyone leave not happy. If you’re in Amsterdam, check if that deal’s still on — it’s worth the wait.