The 7 Most Delicious Things To Eat In Amsterdam

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Tia

In this travel blog post, I’ll take you on a delectable journey through the 7 best things to eat in Amsterdam. From traditional Dutch treats to international delights, Amsterdam has something to satisfy every palate.

Welcome to Amsterdam, a city known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a culinary scene that will tantalize your taste buds.

Table of Contents

Is Amsterdam a foodie city?

Absolutely, Amsterdam is a burgeoning foodie city with a diverse culinary scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its food scene.

Amsterdam’s chefs are known for their innovation and creativity in the kitchen. Many restaurants focus on modern interpretations of traditional Dutch dishes, creating a unique and exciting dining experience.

Are there really great things to eat in Amsterdam?

The city boasts numerous markets and local suppliers where chefs can source fresh, high-quality ingredients. Amsterdam’s street food scene is vibrant, offering delicious bites for those on the go, and at the same time it is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing the city’s commitment to culinary excellence.

In addition to its culinary offerings, Amsterdam has a thriving craft beer scene with numerous local breweries. This complements the food culture, allowing visitors to enjoy unique beer pairings with their meals.

Throughout the year, Amsterdam hosts various food festivals and events that celebrate both local and international cuisines. These events attract foodies looking to explore new flavors and culinary trends.

The 7 best things to eat in Amsterdam

1. Delicious Fries

In Amsterdam, you can find delicious potatoes served in various forms across the city. One popular Dutch potato dish is “Patat,” which are thick-cut fries, often served with an array of tasty toppings.

patat - the famous street food snack - one of the top things to eat in amsterdam

If you’re on the hunt for the best potatoes in Amsterdam, here are a couple of places worth trying:

Vleminckx De Sausmeester:

Location: Voetboogstraat 31, 1012 XK Amsterdam.
Vleminckx is a renowned spot for fantastic fries in Amsterdam. The potatoes are freshly cut and fried to perfection. The real star, however, is the selection of sauces. With a variety ranging from traditional Dutch mayonnaise to more exotic options, your potato experience here will be unforgettable.

Manneken Pis:

Location: Damrak 41, 1012 LK Amsterdam.
Manneken Pis is a Belgian fries shop located near Dam Square. They serve crispy and golden fries with a choice of delicious sauces. The portions are generous, and you can enjoy your fries while strolling through the bustling streets of Amsterdam.

Frietsteeg:

Location: Heisteeg 3, 1012 WC Amsterdam.
This small and cozy fry shop, Frietsteeg, is tucked away in the heart of Amsterdam. They take pride in using high-quality, locally sourced potatoes. The fries are hand-cut and cooked to perfection. The charming atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to satisfy your potato cravings.

Par Hasard:

Location: Ceintuurbaan 113, 1072 EZ Amsterdam.
Par Hasard is a Dutch brasserie known for its classic Dutch dishes; their fries are no exception. The fries are served with a choice of delicious sauces, and the restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a comforting plate of potatoes.

These are just a few options, and Amsterdam has many more spots where you can find excellent potatoes. Don’t hesitate to explore local markets and food stalls, as hidden gems often await in unexpected places.

2. Stroopwafels at Albert Cuyp Market:

Start your culinary adventure with a visit to the iconic Albert Cuyp Market, where the aroma of freshly baked stroopwafels fills the air. These thin waffle cookies filled with gooey caramel are a sweet sensation. Enjoy them warm, and watch as the caramel oozes out with every bite.

Location: Albert Cuyp Market, Albert Cuypstraat, 1073 BD Amsterdam.

stroopwafels in amsterdam filled with caramel

3. Herring at The Fish Stand:

For a true Dutch experience, try the famous raw herring. Head to one of the many fish stands scattered throughout the city. Served with onions and pickles, this traditional street food is a must-try. Don’t be intimidated – take a bite and savor the unique taste of Amsterdam’s favorite fish.

Location: Various fish stands, look out for “Haringhandel” signs.

a paper plate of raw herring with onions and pickles - probably the most local thing to eat in amsterdam

4. Poffertjes at Pancake Bakery:

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without indulging in a plate of poffertjes – small, fluffy Dutch pancakes. The Pancake Bakery, located in a charming 17th-century building, offers these delightful treats topped with powdered sugar and a dollop of butter. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack.

Location: The Pancake Bakery, Prinsengracht 191, 1015 DS Amsterdam.

5. Cheese Tasting at Reypenaer Proeflokaal:

Amsterdam is renowned for its cheese, and the best place to experience a cheese-tasting extravaganza is at Reypenaer Proeflokaal. Sample an array of Dutch cheeses, from mild Gouda to rich and aged varieties. Enhance your tasting with wine pairings for a truly memorable experience.

Location: Reypenaer Proeflokaal, Singel 182, 1015 AJ Amsterdam.

a packed cheese display at a cheese deli

6. Bitterballen at Café De Klos:

Head to Café De Klos to taste one of Amsterdam’s favorite pub snacks – bitterballen.

In fact, make it a mission to include these in your things to eat in Amsterdam! These deep-fried, crispy meatballs are filled with a savory mixture and are best enjoyed with a cold beer. The cozy and rustic ambiance of this establishment adds to the overall experience.

Location: Café De Klos, Kerkstraat 41-43, 1017 GB Amsterdam.

a plate of bitterballen and 2 beers - these fried, crispy meatballs are one of the top 7 things to eat in amsterdam

7. Indonesian Rijsttafel at Sampurna

Experience the influence of Indonesia on Dutch cuisine with a rijsttafel, a grand feast of small, flavorful dishes. Sampurna, located in the heart of Amsterdam, offers an authentic Indonesian dining experience. Savor the aromatic spices and diverse flavors in this culinary journey.

Location: Sampurna, Singel 498, 1017 AX Amsterdam.

rijsttafel - a grand feast of small, flavorful Indonesian dishes at Sampurna restaurant is one of the top 7 things to eat in amsterdam

Conclusion:

Amsterdam’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Dutch flavors and international influences. From sweet stroopwafels to savory bitterballen, the city offers a diverse array of dishes that will leave you craving for more.

Whether you’re exploring street food markets, dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, or sipping coffee in a charming café, Amsterdam provides a diverse and exciting culinary adventure for food enthusiasts.

So, put on your walking shoes, explore the charming streets, and embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Amsterdam. Your taste buds will thank you!

Thank you for reading my list of the 7 most delicious things to eat in Amsterdam. Do you think I left anything out? Let me know in the comments!

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