Yuan's Hot Pot

My roommate Lieke dragged me to Yuan’s Hot Pot last year and I’ve been going back every month since. She went with a Chinese colleague and came home that night saying, “We’re going back next week with everyone.” That’s how much she loved it. The place is a full-on Sichuan hot pot experience, not some watered-down version. You pick your broth — mild, spicy, or face-melting — and then you cook raw ingredients in a bubbling pot right at your table. It’s communal, loud, and messy, but in the best way. I’ve never had a dinner quite like it. It’s definitely a date-night spot, but also great for groups. We usually go on Thursday nights, not Friday, because it gets packed and the vibe is better when it’s not so crowded. The Ferdinand Bolstraat location is the one we go to — it’s in De Pijp, right in the middle of all the cafes and bars. It’s not fancy, but it’s authentic. You can’t get a more immersive food experience in Amsterdam. They have multiple locations, but this one feels the most local. You get a huge selection of meats, seafood, tofu, dumplings, and vegetables. You can even get noodles and veggies that are already cooked, but you still get to decide how long to cook them. The sauces are self-serve, so you can make your own dipping mix — it’s part of the fun. I always start with the half-and-half pot, especially if you’re not used to spicy food. It’s a smart way to experience both mild and hot flavors. If you’re new, go with at least three people, and ideally four to six. It’s more fun that way. You’ll get the full experience. They close on Mondays, so plan around that. The place is always full on weekends, so booking ahead is a must. I usually book a week in advance. The price is around 30 to 40 euros per person, which is a little more than your average dinner, but worth it for the experience. The spicy broth is real — it’s not for the faint of heart. I’ve seen people cry from the heat, and I’ve also seen people who are used to spicy food get a little teary. But it’s part of the charm. Also, be prepared to smell like hot pot for the rest of the day. It’s a bit of a commitment. But if you’re into group dinners, food that’s interactive, and trying something different, this is the place. The neighborhood is great too — De Pijp is full of energy, with lots of cafes and bars nearby. If you’re looking for something different from the usual Dutch fare, this is it. I’ve been going with my coworkers and friends for years now, and it’s still one of my favorite dinners in Amsterdam. The vibe is loud, and the food is hot, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. You can check if that deal’s still on if you’re planning a visit — I always go for the half-and-half pot, and I always recommend it to anyone who’s brave enough to try something spicy.