On a budget: Bistro Zebra

Too tired to cook? We get it! But tasty food is a must, so never settle for less. That’s why we’ve put together our tips for truly delicious takeaways, the best delivery services and affordable places.

For everyone living in Amsterdam Oost who is still looking for a nice neighbourhood restaurant where you can sit down for an affordable main course: stop searching. Bistro Zebra is your new hangout. All main courses cost €13–€15, add a glass of (natural) wine and you’ll just about reach €20. Pretty good, right? Especially considering how much flavour you get in return.

Distinctive flavours

Whatever dish you order, the flavours are incredibly distinctive. The menu features plenty of Asian influences, but there isn’t really one clear direction to identify. Something I’m usually sceptical about, but at Zebra everything works more than well. Whether you go for the Korean meatballs with udon noodles and tomato sauce or the hamburger with tonkatsu sauce, coleslaw and wasabi mayo, the flavours are big, bold and beautiful.

All out

If you’re looking for a more elaborate dinner, Zebra is also the right place for you. For €30, you can order a three-course menu, with the chef selecting three dishes from the menu for you. Or you can choose your own starter and dessert. How about Thai fish balls or grey mullet sashimi with wasabi mayo and pickled vegetables to start? And deep-fried passion fruit ice cream with toffee sauce or a brownie with sesame for dessert?

Envy-inducing neighbourhood restaurant

I live on the other side of the city and am actually jealous of the people in Oost. This is exactly the kind of place that would instantly become my neighbourhood restaurant if I lived around the corner. All the main courses are filling enough for a quick weekday meal when you don’t feel like cooking. Maybe it’s just as well that I live in West; otherwise I’d still blow €100 a week here because I’d stop by every day.

Bistro Zebra
Valentijnkade 34
Amsterdam