On a budget: Al Ninèn

No energy left to cook? We get it! But tasty food is a must, never settle for less. That’s why we’ve put together our tips for truly delicious takeaways, the best delivery services and affordable places.

Pasta is easy to make, of course; it’ll be on the table in fifteen minutes. But then you have the washing-up to deal with, and that one quarter of an hour can also be utterly exhausting. Enter Al Ninèn on Westerstraat in Amsterdam’s Jordaan. Here, you can get Italian meals just as Italian meals are meant to be: simple and pure.

Pumpkin and almond cookies

The chef at Al Ninèn is Manuele Monari, and he’s been making pasta since he was a little Manuele. And that pasta is what you should order. The tortelloni (very large tortellini) filled with pumpkin—and we’re guessing almond cookies—is incredibly flavorful. It’s not filled with some measly amount, no, the filling is generous and the pasta is super fresh. Add the butter sauce with sage and you’re all set. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, grab a tiramisu as well. You’ll still be done for well under 20 euros.

Still feel like doing a bit of stirring in the pots yourself? You can also simply buy the different types of pasta separately. Order some cheeses and cold cuts while you’re at it—the ones eyeing you from the display case. And don’t forget the little barrels of balsamic vinegar. It’s quite difficult to leave this shop empty-handed.

Al Ninèn
Westerstraat 77
Amsterdam

Still craving a burger? Then head to the TonTon Club for the one and only ramen burger. 

Image: Al Ninèn