Food & Drinks at the Rijksmuseum – Cafés, Restaurants & Rules

Food is not allowed in the galleries, but the museum has a café and a full restaurant, and Museumplein around the building is full of options. Plan a break alongside your visitors guide route.

Inside the museum

Rijksmuseum Café — in the Atrium, open during museum hours. Coffee, pastries, sandwiches, salads, Dutch bitterballen. No reservation needed; counter service.

RIJKS® Restaurant — Michelin-starred fine dining led by chef Joris Bijdendijk. Located in the Philips Wing, accessible without a museum ticket. Reservations strongly advised for lunch (12:00–14:00) and dinner (18:00–22:00).

Nearby on Museumplein

If the café queue is long or you want a change of scenery, Museumplein has several options. The Seafood Bar on Van Baerlestraat serves fantastic Dutch herring and oysters. Coffee & Coconuts on Ceintuurbaan is a 10-minute walk — great for brunch. For a classic Dutch pancake, Cafe-Restaurant Loetje does a famous steak and frites.

Food & Drinks FAQ

Hours, reservations, and dietary options

Do I need a museum ticket to eat at RIJKS®?

No. The restaurant has its own entrance in the Philips Wing and is open to everyone.

Are there vegetarian and vegan options?

Yes — both the café and RIJKS® offer clear vegetarian and vegan dishes. Gluten-free choices are marked on menus.

Can I eat in the Rijksmuseum Garden?

Yes. The garden allows takeaway food and is a pleasant picnic spot in good weather.

Is the café busy?

Expect a queue at lunchtime (12:30–14:00). Go before 12:00 or after 14:30 for a quicker experience.

Are kids welcome at RIJKS®?

Yes, especially at lunch. The restaurant has a children's menu on request.

Can I get just coffee without buying a meal?

Yes, at the Rijksmuseum Café — it is a casual counter-service setup designed for short breaks.