Char.d Brings Modern Barbecue to Amsterdam
Char.d opened its doors in Amsterdam last year and has already made a strong impression on the city’s dining scene. Located on the Utrechtsestraat, the restaurant combines modern barbecue techniques with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. We joined Char.d for a Life After Football team dinner and left genuinely impressed by the experience from start to finish.
Where Technique and Atmosphere Come Together
Founded by chefs and close friends Dean Baker and Slava Nazaryan, Char.d is built around the idea of charring. Slow grilling over charcoal or wood, combined with high-heat cooking, forms the backbone of the kitchen. The menu is intentionally concise, focusing on quality ingredients and layered flavours rather than complexity. During our dinner, the atmosphere stood out immediately. The music stayed present without overpowering conversations, the hosts were attentive and welcoming, and the pace of the evening felt just right.
A Driven Kitchen
The kitchen works with a rotating menu based on daily fresh ingredients, supported by an extensive wine list featuring labels from renowned producers around the world. We were able to try several starters, such as oysters and beef skewers, and main courses existing of sea bass and corn fed chicken, with each dish prepared with precision and care. From meat to fish and vegetables, every dish felt balanced and thoughtfully executed. The wines paired perfectly with the food, and the french toast dessert closed the evening on a high note. It is clear that Char.d aims for consistency and quality.
A Grounded Setting with a Personal Touch
The interior reflects the philosophy of the kitchen. Dark, earthy tones, stone and wood create a grounded and welcoming space where the food takes the spotlight. With seating for around fifty guests spread across two levels, plus a small terrace, the restaurant feels intimate without being cramped.
Dean Baker brings years of experience from kitchens in London and Amsterdam, while Slava Nazaryan adds his own background shaped by French, Asian and preservation techniques. Together, they have created a place that feels personal, confident and genuinely enjoyable to return to.
Char.d is a restaurant that delivers on atmosphere, service and food, making it a strong addition to Amsterdam’s dining landscape.
Discover Char.d for yourself here!
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