Ceppi’s

You know what I love? An Italian restaurant that has an image of the “typical” pinched fingers straight on their website, instead of being offended. And that’s Ceppi’s!

When my friend suggested a girls brunch here, the name didn’t sound familiar. Did a bit of Googling (can’t help myself), and seen that the overall sentiment was positive – so I got pretty excited for Sunday to arrive and for my face to be stuffed with delicious pasta.

We got there and ordered cocktails to start with. They have a couple of bubbly, summery drinks, including the famous Aperol Spritz or Hugo.

We shared a Burrata and 3 pizzette. The burrata was lovely, but I didn’t care much for their take on it, mainly the cooked beetroot. I would’ve preferred something refreshing, like flavorful tomatoes.

The pizzette were tasty, my favorite being the Anchovies one pictured in the middle. The cheese here – on anything, I’m starting to learn – is to die for!

About 2 hours later, we’re all ready for pasta to steal the show.

The specials that day were Lobster Spaghetti and Seafood Spaghetti (mostly spaghetti alle vongole). My friends were happy with their choices and everyone licked their plates clean (okay, not literally – it’s not that kind of place). I’ll personally never understand what makes lobster worth €€€ when it comes to its taste, but hey! each to their own. I’ll stick to my octopus and squid…

I went with the Ravioli, a choice that’s always on their menu. The ravioli are filled with ricotta and smothered in lemon, pistachio and sage butter. Now listen. This was divine. I probably could’ve eaten a whole other portion. Shouldn’t have, but could have. Hands down one of the best pasta dishes I’ve had in Amsterdam, if not nr. 1. Jury’s still out on that one. 11/10 would order again.

My friend went with another classic, Cacio e Pepe…but with truffle! From where I stand, there’s nothing that isn’t made instantly better by truffle. This time, I’m only relying on her testimony: it was damn good. The dish gets extra points for how pretty it is, too.

It’s pretty rare that you get 5 sassy women together, spend 4 hours in a place, and no one complains about the food. Everything at Ceppi’s was sublime. This won’t be the cheapest place you’ll visit, but the quality is very much up there. The staff was also nice and fast, refilling drinks without us having the flag them down, even when the terrace was full.

This place definitely has my vote. Ceppi’s, you’re the real deal.

Value for money: 9

Food Quality: 10

Location: 9 (Lijnbaansgracht 256)

Service: 9

Website: https://ceppis.com/