A few months ago I took a trip to Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It’s in my top three cities in the whole of Europe, so I wanted to put together a list of everywhere we ate while visiting.
There’s something very magical about Amsterdam, and although I’ve only visited the city twice, I know I could see myself living there in the future.
A very relaxed city with a lot of young people, but feels like such a nice way of life compared to the hustle and bustle of London. Every corner of the city is picturesque with the canals and terraced buildings.
Anyway, onto the food. And if you’d rather see the food visually, you can always check out my vlog of the trip that I have on my YouTube channel – but find it below for easy viewing:
1. Haring
Eating herring in Amsterdam is a foodie adventure that you can’t miss. This raw fish dish, known as “Hollandse Nieuwe” or “Haring,” is a tasty tradition deeply rooted in Dutch culture.
You’ll find it all over the city at street food stalls, making it a convenient and affordable treat for both locals and travellers.
So, why should you give it a try? Well, first off, it’s a unique cultural experience. You’re not just having a meal; you’re diving into centuries of Dutch history. And the flavour? It’s a surprising mix of briny, slightly sweet, and goes perfectly with the crunch of onions and pickles.
Plus, it’s healthy – packed with omega-3s. Grab a herring by the tail, snap a pic, and savour the taste of Amsterdam’s culinary heritage. Just be careful of the small bones, but don’t leave the city without trying it!
2. Frites from Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx
Munching on pomme frites (fries) from Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx in Amsterdam will leave you craving more. If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, I absolutely recommend making a pitstop at this iconic fry shop.
What makes these fries stand out? It’s all about the perfect combo of crispy, golden on the outside, and fluffy on the inside. They’re served piping hot and come with an array of mouthwatering sauces, from classic Dutch mayo to curry ketchup and more. Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx takes their frites seriously, and it shows in every bite.
Whether you’re strolling along the canals, exploring museums, or just wandering around Amsterdam, these fries are the ideal snack. They’re budget-friendly and extremely satisfying. Plus, the variety of sauces means there’s a flavour for everyone.
3. Van Wonderen Stroopwafels
Indulging in stroopwafels from Van Wonderen Stroopwafels in Amsterdam is an experience that I can’t recommend enough to anyone exploring the city. These sweet treats are a true Dutch delight, and they’ll leave you satisfied but also leave you with sticky fingers and a lighter wallet.
So what’s so special about these stroopwafels? Well, they’re freshly made, which means they’re warm and gooey – the perfect combo. Two thin waffle layers sandwich a rich caramel syrup, creating a chewy, sweet, and slightly crispy bite.
These stroopwafels are a delightful snack or dessert as you explore the charming streets of Amsterdam. They’re a sweet escape from your sightseeing adventures and offer a delicious taste of Dutch tradition. So, treat yourself to the sweet side of Amsterdam with Van Wonderen Stroopwafels – you won’t be disappointed!
4. Dutch Pancake Masters
Eating Dutch pancakes at Dutch Pancake Masters in Amsterdam is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting this picturesque city. These pancakes are a culinary masterpiece that will leave you with a big, satisfied grin on your face.
What sets Dutch pancakes apart? They’re thin, small and you get quite a lot of them, and they come in an astonishing variety of toppings, from sweet to savoury. Whether you’re craving a Nutella and banana indulgence (like me) or a savoury delight with cheese and bacon, Dutch Pancake Masters has you covered.
These mini pancakes are a taste of Dutch comfort food that will make your visit to Amsterdam even more memorable. So, when in Amsterdam, do yourself a favour and savour the flavours of these Dutch pancakes – your taste buds will thank you!
To discover some more Dutch delights, you can find Netherlands tour packages here.
5. Bakers & Roasters
Brunching at Bakers & Roasters in Amsterdam is something I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone exploring this vibrant city. This cozy and inviting eatery offers a delightful menu that’s a fusion of New Zealand and Brazilian flavours, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
It’s not just the delicious food that sets this place apart from other brunch restaurants in the city, but the diverse options that cater to all tastes. From their mouthwatering Kiwi Big Breakfast to more exotic choices like the Avo Maria, there’s something for every palate.
Aside from the fantastic food, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a leisurely meal. The friendly staff adds to the overall experience (our server was actually Irish), and the coffee and cocktail selection is top-notch.
We had to have some pancakes for dessert too and I would totally recommend! It was very much worth the 20 minute wait outside.
6. Dim Sum Thing (Foodhallen)
Dining at Dim Sum Thing in Foodhallen is a must if you like dumplings. This stylish and diverse food hall is a mecca for foodies, and Dim Sum Thing truly stands out as a gem within it.
What makes Dim Sum Thing a standout choice? First and foremost, it’s all about the dim sum. Their menu offers a delectable selection of bite-sized Asian delights, from dumplings to buns, and everything in between. The flavors are authentic, and the quality is top-notch.
Foodhallen itself is a unique experience, offering a diverse range of international cuisine, and Dim Sum Thing’s inclusion in this culinary haven only adds to the charm. It’s a great place to explore the diverse food culture of Amsterdam while enjoying mouthwatering dim sum and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
7. Ted’s
Ted’s in Amsterdam is the perfect brunch spot on a gorgeous day in Amsterdam. Offering a welcoming and cozy ambiance with a menu that’s a mouthwatering fusion of traditional Dutch breakfast favourites and global brunch delights.
From their mouthwatering Dutch pancakes, loaded with toppings, to their fluffy omelettes and decadent avocado toast, every dish is a flavour-packed masterpiece. The presentation is Instagram-worthy, and the taste even more so.
It’s the perfect place to start your day in Amsterdam. Situated along the canal, you can have your breakfast while waving to passing boats on the water. Whether you’re a fan of classic breakfast fare or want to try something with a modern twist, Ted’s has you covered.
8. Bhatti Pasal
Not very Dutch, this Nepalese restaurant was our first point of call when we arrived in Amsterdam. There are two spots, one is walk-in only while the other location is a more formal version, suitable for a romantic date night.
We had our eyes on the momos (naturally) and filled up on these quite quickly, but also ordered a side of noodles. Both dishes were great, but the momos were exceptional.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam but want to try something a little different like Nepalese cuisine, I would fully recommend a visit to Bhatti Pasal.
Related post: Four Days in Amsterdam Travel Guide
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