
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Amsterdam, Netherlands
1. Stroopwafel
A delicate waffle cookie with caramel syrup filling, originating from Gouda. Try it at Albert Cuyp Market.
- Authentic Experience: Buy freshly made stroopwafels from traditional vendors.
- Value for Money: Experience a delicious local treat without breaking the bank.
- Popular Snack: Sharing stroopwafels is a common tradition among locals and tourists alike.
2. Bitterballen
Deep-fried breadcrumb-coated meat ragout balls, perfect as a bar snack. Visit Cafe de Dokter for the best bitterballen.
- Historic Setting: Cafe de Dokter has been serving bitterballen since the early 20th century.
- Unique Flavors: Taste different varieties of bitterballen, each with unique flavor profiles.
- Hangout Spot: Cafe de Dokter offers a lively atmosphere for socializing and people watching.
3. Herring at Vishalzieders
Traditional Dutch herring stands along the harbor. Visit Vishalzieders for a tasty experience.
- Freshness Guaranteed: Herring is delivered daily and is best enjoyed straight from the stand.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about the centuries-old tradition of eating herring in Amsterdam.
- Quick Bite: Herring is a perfect on-the-go snack for exploring the city.
4. Poffertjes at Poffertjesfabriek
Tiny, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and served with butter. Try them at Poffertjesfabriek.
- Flavorful Options: Experiment with various toppings like bacon, syrup, or fruit.
- Group Activity: Poffertjes are a great treat to share with friends and family.
- Fun Atmosphere: Enjoy a vibrant, festive ambiance while indulging in poffertjes.
5. Kroket at FEBO
A tasty and crispy deep-fried roll filled with ragout. Try it at the automat vending machines of FEBO.
- Convenient Snack: FEBO's vending machines are open 24/7, making kroketen available any time.
- Versatile Options: Choose from various types of kroketen, including beef, chicken, and vegetarian options.
- Quirky Experience: Experience the novelty of ordering from a vending machine in an iconic Amsterdam setting.
6. Bamischot at Brouwerij 't IJ
A traditional Dutch biscuit dipped in beer at the brewery Brouwerij 't IJ. Perfect pairing with their homemade brews.
- Beer Lovers' Paradise: Sample a variety of artisanal beers at the brewery.
- Authentic Experience: Indulge in this unique local treat while enjoying the atmosphere of a historic windmill.
- Seasonal Availability: Bamischot is available only during winter months, making it a special seasonal treat.
7. Erwtensoep at Pllek
Dutch split pea soup served with smoked sausage. Enjoy this comforting dish at Pllek overlooking the water.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy your meal while taking in stunning views of the IJ-river and NDSM wharf.
- Hearty Meal: Warm up with a bowl of this classic Dutch soup on chilly days.
- Community Vibe: Pllek promotes sustainability, creativity, and fosters a welcoming community atmosphere.
8. Pannenkoeken at PancakeBurgerszalm
Large Dutch pancakes filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Try them at PancakeBurgerszalm.
- Variety of Options: Choose from a wide range of fillings, including both sweet and savory options.
- Family-Friendly: Pancakes make a fun and filling meal for the whole family to enjoy together.
- Historic Setting: Dine in an old, beautifully restored traditional Dutch house.
9. Rijsttafel at Blauw
A Indonesian-inspired feast with various small dishes served on a rice base. Try it at restaurant Blauw.
- Cultural Fusion: Indulge in the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine, influenced by Dutch colonialism.
- Group Dining Experience: Rijsttafel is best enjoyed with a group to share and try multiple dishes.
- Refined Atmosphere: Dine in a sleek, modern setting with beautiful views of the canals.
10. Apple Pie at Winkel 43
Famous apple pie from Winkel 43, a bakery established in 1862. Don't miss it during your visit!
- Authentic Experience: Taste the original apple pie recipe that has been passed down for generations.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Winkel 43's apple pie is beloved by locals and tourists alike.
- Perfect as a Gift: Take home a freshly baked apple pie as a souvenir or gift.
11. Frites at Vleminckx Friteshuis
Crispy Dutch fries with various toppings like mayonnaise or ketchup. Visit Vleminckx Friteshuis for the best frites.
- Traditional Recipe: Vleminckx Friteshuis uses a traditional Belgian recipe for their frites.
- Flexible Options: Customize your order with various toppings, sauces, and even cheese.
- Quick Snack: Grab a cone of frites as a convenient on-the-go snack while exploring Amsterdam.
12. Kroket at Kroketten Annemiek
A crispy deep-fried roll filled with ragout, available in various flavors. Try the best kroketen at Kroketten Annemiek.
- Quality Ingredients: Kroketten Annemiek uses only the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
- Versatile Options: Choose from a variety of flavors, including classic beef and exotic options like kip (chicken) or boerenkool (kale).
- Easy to Find: Kroketten Annemiek has multiple locations throughout the city.
13. Balkan dishes at Karavaan
Delicious Balkan-inspired dishes served in a unique boat-shaped restaurant. Try them at Karavaan.
- Cultural Exploration: Experience the flavors and cuisine of the Balkans in Amsterdam.
- Unique Dining Experience: Dine aboard a beautifully restored wooden boat while cruising through the canals.
- Group-Friendly: Karavaan offers communal tables, making it easy to share and socialize with others.
14. Croquettes at In de Buurt
Delicious croquettes made from various fillings like mushroom or shrimp. Try the best ones at In de Buurt.
- Quality Ingredients: In de Buurt uses only fresh and high-quality ingredients in their croquettes.
- Versatile Options: Choose from a variety of fillings, including classic croquettes and unique options like spinach or beetroot.
- Casual Atmosphere: In de Buurt offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
15. Gebak at Van Stapele Koekmakerij
Artisanal cookies and pastries made with love at Van Stapele Koekmakerij. Try their famous speculaas cookie.
- Artisanal Experience: Van Stapele Koekmakerij uses traditional baking methods and locally sourced ingredients.
- Unique Flavors: Taste their signature speculaas cookie, a spiced shortbread cookie popular during the holiday season.
- Perfect as a Gift: Pick up some cookies or pastries to bring home as a souvenir or gift for loved ones.