Did you know there’s a 300-year-old farmhouse hiding in plain sight on Amsterdam’s Ringdijk? Don’t worry if you didn’t – most people don’t. Last week, I joined the ranks of those in the know and made my way to De Vergulden Eenhoorn, a café, restaurant, and hotel tucked away in the heart of the city. Think countryside vibes, Eggs Benedict dreams, and the kind of charm that makes you forget you’re anywhere near the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. Curious? Let me fill you in.
What I knew about De Vergulden Eenhoorn before I went
Honestly? Not much. A friend described it as “that secret spot you’d never find unless someone told you about it.” They mentioned the eggs Benedict were excellent, and the setting was like stepping into a pastoral postcard. I’d also heard whispers of fancy dinners featuring oysters and pheasant, but since I was going for lunch, I filed those thoughts away for another time.
What intrigued me most was its location. Surrounded by greenery yet still in Amsterdam, it sounded like a hidden oasis. I love a good surprise, so I booked a table, curious to see if this place would live up to its “hidden gem” reputation.
From farmstead charm to hollandaise heaven
Walking up to De Vergulden Eenhoorn feels like stumbling upon a secret. You turn a corner, and suddenly, there it is: a charming, centuries-old farmhouse framed by gardens and the kind of peaceful atmosphere you rarely find in the city. Inside, it’s cozy and inviting, with wooden beams and that delightful rustic vibe that says, “Stay a while.” If the weather’s good, the outdoor terrace is a must — a mix of sunshine, shade, and birdsong.
The lunch menu was straightforward but appealing. Naturally, I ordered the Eggs Benedict, which arrived as a perfectly plated masterpiece. The hollandaise sauce? Absolutely spot on — silky, tangy, and rich without being overwhelming. My friend went for the Limburgian meat stew with fries, which was equally satisfying, all hearty flavors and tender bites.
We paired our meals with their homemade lemonades — zingy, fresh, and bringing some sunshine to the rainy and cold winter day. Prices were refreshingly reasonable, too. At €13.50 for the eggs Benedict and €16.50 for the stew, it felt like a steal for such quality.
What’s the verdict?
De Vergulden Eenhoorn is the definition of a hidden treasure. Whether you’re after a quiet lunch, a laid-back drink in their picnic garden, or an atmospheric dinner under the beams of their Hooiberg (hay barn), this place delivers.
Would I go back? Absolutely. I’m already plotting a dinner visit to try their à la carte menu, with delights like confit pheasant and côte de boeuf calling my name. If you’re looking for a break from the city without actually leaving it, De Vergulden Eenhoorn is a must-visit. Just don’t forget to book — secrets this good don’t stay hidden for long.
You can visit the Vergulden Eenhoorn at Ringdijk 58.
Find Vergulden Eenhoorn online:
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