Park life meets Greek delicacies at Ikaria Park
By Nina Olsson
Bilderdijkpark 1a, 1052 RZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
BOOK NOWThis tiny restaurant, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bilderdijkpark – Ikaria Park is one of the best green hideaways in the city. It offers a beautiful cosy park view and serves fresh Greek food inspired by kitchens on the blue zone island Ikaria, where everything is so good and vibrant that people forget to die.
Ikaria Park’s menu combines traditional Greek flavours with a modern, elegant presentation. Everything is ultra-fresh and on point. You’ll find essential Greek must-haves like tzatziki, tarama, pita, and the mandatory Greek feta salad served to absolute perfection.
My favourite dishes include the Torched Dolmas – stuffed wine leaves with grains drizzled with Kefir and Dill Oil, and the Tirokafyer because Feta cheese is my eternal spirit cheese. The Greek pasta dish Skioupfhita Apaki (the veggie version) with sundried tomatoes is also super delicious. One highlight is the dramatic Bougatsa – a simple traditional dessert with crispy filo, Greek custard, vanilla ice cream, cinnamon, and powdered sugar, smashed by the waiter at the table before serving.
At Ikaria Park, you can enjoy Greek wines and ouzo, but my favourite drink is their alcohol-free spritz, which I definitely need the recipe for and will order on my next visit because we are surely coming back.
I highly recommend reserving a table at Ikaria Park as it has been fully booked every time we visit. It’s a place to gather with friends and family, although we’ve also seen many dates in the restaurant. Dining under the trees with my partner was a cute experience. The lovely service at Ikaria is all about coming together Greek style.
Ikaria Park
The Place: An elegant yet casual Greek restaurant.
The Space: Situated in the lush Bilderdijpark, Oud West. A green oasis in central Amsterdam..
The Base: Starters and sharing bites from €5 -11, salads, from €10,50, mains from €10.50-28
The Face: Local groups, friends and families, couples, dates.
The Ace: Ask the friendly staff for recommendations, don’t miss the Torched Dolmas, Tarama or Bougatsa.
The Veg: The Greek-style pasta with pork is available as a veggie version.
Opening Times: Wed-Fri 17:00-00:00, Sun 12:00-21:00, Mon-Tues closed.
Images from ikariapark.nl, Ikaria Park and Nina Olsson
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