10 New Bib Gourmand Restaurants in the Netherlands: Affordable Michelin-Quality Dining for Expats

If you’ve been looking for a memorable meal that won’t break the bank, the latest Michelin Bib Gourmand list for the Netherlands has just given you ten new reasons to book a table. On 28 September 2026, Michelin announced the new recipients ahead of the main star ceremony on 5 October – and three of the winners are in Amsterdam.

The Bib Gourmand is Michelin’s seal of approval for restaurants that serve high-quality food at a reasonable price (typically under €40 for a three-course meal). Unlike the starred restaurants that aim for perfection at any cost, Bib Gourmand spots focus on value and accessibility – perfect for expats and internationals who want to explore Dutch dining without a corporate expense account.

The three Amsterdam additions

Fulu Mandarijn (Rokin, city centre) brings Sichuan cuisine to the capital. Michelin praises its “aromatic spices and rich umami notes” – think mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, and the signature mala kick. A welcome break from the usual Dutch-Indonesian rice tables.

Utage Sake Bar (Lekstraat, Amsterdam-Zuid) is an izakaya‑style spot that pairs playful small plates with an exceptional sake list. Michelin calls it “a must‑visit” for anyone who enjoys Japanese drinking snacks in a relaxed setting.

Boon & De Koot (Barentszstraat, Amsterdam-West) is a vintage‑style bistro that proves simplicity wins. The kitchen focuses on vegetables and clever flavour combinations – think roasted cauliflower with tahini or a perfectly dressed salad that makes you forget meat exists.

Beyond Amsterdam

Bistro Toost in Amstelveen’s historic Oude Dorp is described as “dark and stylish” with dishes built on “recognisable flavours, ingredients that speak for themselves, and a sense of generosity”. A solid option for a date night south of the city.

Wijn Boer in Zwolle belongs to the family of the late Jonnie Boer (of three‑star De Librije fame). It’s a more casual sibling that carries the same dedication to quality. If you’re in the north, this is a chance to taste the Boer legacy without the three‑star price tag.

Ramen Kitanoya in The Hague (the source article mentions “T” – likely The Hague) offers an “authentic Tokyo vibe” according to Michelin. For anyone craving a proper bowl of tonkotsu ramen, this is now an officially recognised stop.

What about the stars?

On 5 October, Michelin held its main ceremony in Maastricht, awarding two new two‑star restaurants (Azurite in Delft and SUIS in Schin op Geul) and first stars to seven others. De Librije in Zwolle held onto its three stars under new head chef Nelson Tanate. No additional Bib Gourmands were announced that day – the 10 from September are the complete update for 2026.

What this means for you

For internationals living in the Netherlands, the Bib Gourmand list is a practical guide to affordable, high‑quality dining that doesn’t require a mortgage payment. Many of these restaurants are reservation‑only, so book ahead. The full list of 10 new winners includes restaurants in Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Zwolle, The Hague, and other cities – a great excuse for a weekend trip.

Michelin updates its Bib Gourmand selection annually. For the full list of all Bib Gourmand restaurants in the Netherlands, check the Michelin Guide website.

Sources: NL Times – 10 new Bib Gourmands, NL Times – Star ceremony