Amsterdam delivers a mix of Michelin-rated restaurants, canal-side cafes, and quintessential “Brown Bar” pubs. Hit a street market for herring sandwiches, syrup-filled stroopwafels, or fries slathered with mayonnaise. You can’t go wrong with stamppot (veggie mashed potatoes) or bitterballen (fried meatballs). And if you’re thirsty, sip jenever (Dutch gin)— or taste beer at the Heineken Experience.
Amsterdam, a city of diverse cultures and influences, offers a culinary landscape that reflects its rich history and global connections. From hearty Dutch classics to international delights, here's a taste of what to savor in Amsterdam's local cuisine.
Hollandse Nieuwe Haring: Dive into Dutch tradition with "Hollandse Nieuwe," a seasonal dish featuring raw herring fillets. Enjoy them with onions and pickles, either by taking a bite or, for the adventurous, trying the "haringhappen" technique of eating it whole.
Bitterballen: These golden-fried, crispy meatballs are a Dutch bar snack favorite. Filled with a creamy mixture of beef or veal ragout, they pair perfectly with a cold Dutch beer.
Poffertjes: These mini pancakes, fluffy and light, are a sweet treat dusted with powdered sugar and served with a dollop of butter. Find them at street stalls or pancake houses.
Stroopwafels: Thin waffle cookies filled with sweet syrup make for a delightful Dutch treat. You can often find them freshly made at street markets.
Erwtensoep: Dutch pea soup is a hearty dish, especially popular during the winter months. Made with split peas, pork, and vegetables, it's a comforting and filling option.
Pannekoeken: Dutch pancakes are larger and thinner than American pancakes, with a wide variety of toppings like bacon, cheese, apples, or syrup.
Indonesian Rijsttafel: Amsterdam's colonial history with Indonesia has left a flavorful mark. Try a rijsttafel, a feast of small Indonesian dishes that showcase a range of flavors and spices.
Patat: Dutch fries, or "patat," are thicker than the average French fry and are served with a variety of toppings, from classic mayo to peanut sauce or sate.
Hollandse Kaas: Cheese lovers rejoice! Sample Dutch cheese, such as Gouda, Edam, or Leyden, at local markets or cheese shops.
Haring en Broodje Kroket: Grab a "broodje haring" (herring sandwich) or a "broodje kroket" (croquette sandwich) from a street vendor for a quick and delicious bite.
Pancakes, Poffertjes, and Appeltaart: Explore Amsterdam's cozy pancake houses and indulge in sweet and savory creations, including apple pie that tastes like it was made by your Dutch grandmother.
With a thriving culinary scene that celebrates both tradition and innovation, Amsterdam's local cuisine is a flavorful journey that offers something for every palate. Whether you're exploring street food stalls or dining in historic canal-side restaurants, the city's diverse dishes are sure to leave you with a taste of its vibrant culture.
