When you think of Amsterdam’s local eats, fries and stroopwafels might be the first that come to mind. But the city has much more to offer when it comes to satisfying your taste buds. From classic traditional Dutch dishes to mouthwatering street food, Amsterdam’s food scene is a veritable smorgasbord of flavors and textures waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, Amsterdam has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some must-try local foods in Amsterdam beyond fries and stroopwafels. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with traditional Dutch dishes, Amsterdam street food, and much more!
Traditional Dutch Dishes to Indulge In
When visiting Amsterdam, indulging in traditional Dutch cuisine is a must. The city offers a range of must-eat foods that will take you on a journey through the rich culinary history of the Netherlands. Whether you are a fan of hearty stews or savory bites, there is something for every palate. To make your culinary adventure easier, we have put together a list of authentic Dutch dishes to try in Amsterdam:
| Dish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Stamppot | A classic Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and meat |
| Bitterballen | Small meat-based snacks, usually served with mustard dip and beer |
| Haring | Salted herring served raw with onions, pickles, and bread |
| Poffertjes | Small, fluffy pancakes usually served with butter and powdered sugar |
| Oliebollen | Deep-fried dough balls traditionally served during the Christmas season |
Some other must-try meals include erwtensoep (pea soup), kroket (croquettes filled with beef ragout), and hutspot (a mash of carrots, onions, and potatoes). Make sure you save room for dessert, as well, with options like stroopwafels (thin waffles filled with syrup) and Dutch apple pie.
So, don’t miss out on the authentic Dutch cuisine that Amsterdam has to offer. Indulge in the traditional dishes and get a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Amsterdam’s Street Food Delights
While Amsterdam is famous for its fries and stroopwafels, the city has much more to offer in terms of street food. The street food scene in Amsterdam is diverse and exciting, with hidden gems waiting to be discovered by savvy foodies.
One of the most popular street food items in Amsterdam is raw herring. This delicacy is served with onions and pickles and is a must-try for seafood lovers. You can find herring stands throughout the city, but one of the most famous is located at Albert Cuyp Market.
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the stroopwafels! These thin waffles are sandwiched with gooey caramel and are best eaten fresh and warm from the vendor. You can find them at street markets and even in vending machines located throughout the city!
Another street food favorite in Amsterdam is the kroket. This deep-fried snack is made with a creamy meat or cheese filling and is often served with mustard. You can find it at snack bars, street vendors, and even some restaurants.
Tempting Street Food Vendors in Amsterdam
| Vendor | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Poffertjes Kraam | Poffertjes (mini pancakes) | Albert Cuyp Market |
| TonTon Club | Fried chicken and Doner kebab | Westergas |
| FEBO | Automat-style fast food, including krokets, frikadeller (meatballs), and friet (fries) | Multiple locations throughout the city |
Tip: When in doubt, follow the locals! If you see a long line of locals waiting at a street food vendor, chances are the food is worth the wait.
From savory to sweet, Amsterdam’s street food scene has something for everyone. Take a stroll and discover hidden food gems tucked away in corners throughout the city.
Exploring the Local Food Markets
Amsterdam is a mecca for foodies, and one of the best ways to get a taste of the local food scene is to explore the city’s bustling food markets. These markets are where locals go to stock up on fresh produce, sample artisanal goods, and savor authentic treats.
One of the must-visit markets is the Albert Cuyp Market, located in the lively De Pijp neighborhood. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to traditional Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and poffertjes. Be sure to try the famous raw herring sandwich, a popular local delicacy.
Another hidden gem is the Noordermarkt, a charming market situated in the scenic Jordaan district. Here, you’ll find a variety of organic and locally-sourced products, including artisanal cheeses, homemade bread, and fresh flowers. The market is also known for its delicious stroopwafels, which you can watch being made right in front of you.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, head to ZuiderMRKT in the trendy Amsterdam Zuid neighborhood. This farmer’s market prides itself on selling only organic and sustainable products and features a variety of local producers.
As you explore the local food markets, keep an eye out for hidden gems like the Foodhallen, a converted tram depot that houses various food stalls and pop-up restaurants. This trendy hotspot is a great place to sample innovative cuisine and is a must-visit for any food lover.
Uncovering Amsterdam’s Hidden Food Gems
Traveling to Amsterdam and craving for local cuisine beyond the usual? Hidden food gems in Amsterdam are everywhere, waiting to be discovered. You can explore the city’s culinary scene like a local and satisfy your taste buds at the best local restaurants in Amsterdam. Here are a few recommendations:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Location | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant De Kas | Modern European | Amsterdam Oost | $$$ |
| Bar Centraal | Mediterranean | Baarsjesweg | $$ |
| Blauw | Indonesian | Jordaan | $$ |
Restaurant De Kas is a unique, innovative restaurant located in a greenhouse near Frankendael Park. They offer a daily changing vegetable menu, with produce freshly picked from their own garden. Bar Centraal is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves creative dishes made with fresh ingredients. It’s a cozy place to enjoy dinner in the heart of Amsterdam. If you want to try Indonesian cuisine, Blauw is a great choice. This popular restaurant is known for its rijsttafel, a spread of various Indonesian dishes that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family.
These are just a few of the many hidden food gems in Amsterdam. Don’t miss your chance to discover the city’s culinary treasures!
Unique Food Experiences in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is renowned for its unique food experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you are a food lover or an adventurer, discovering the hidden gems in the city is essential. Amsterdam’s food scene has something for everyone.
Dining in Converted Greenhouses
One unique food experience that you must not miss is dining in a converted greenhouse. These greenhouses provide a charming atmosphere for enjoying a delectable meal. The Green House is a perfect example of this concept. Enjoy a circular fine dining menu with seasonal, locally-sourced, and sustainable produce while dining in a panoramic glass greenhouse settled on a canal.
Savoring Dishes Prepared by Renowned Local Chefs
For those who appreciate authenticity, savoring dishes prepared by renowned local chefs is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for food. The restaurant with the most awards in the world, Bord’Eau, offers contemporary French cuisine that uses seasonal and fresh ingredients in creative and innovative ways, showcasing the talents of head chef Bas Van Kranen.
Indulging in Art and Cuisine
For art and food enthusiasts, the RIJKS restaurant, located in the Rijksmuseum, blends the two into one. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by art pieces in the museum, and the chefs use locally-sourced Dutch and seasonal ingredients to create delicious dishes. You can enjoy a meal surrounded by stunning Dutch art and a peaceful ambiance.
Experiencing Dinner in the Dark
In Amsterdam, you can also indulge in a unique sensory dining experience by having dinner in the dark. At Ctaste, you will get a chance to explore your senses and experience food in a different way. Enjoying a three-course menu is a memorable experience when you are in complete darkness. This experience enhances your sense of taste and makes every bite more glorious.
The Best Local Restaurants in Amsterdam
If you want to experience Amsterdam’s food scene like a true insider, then visiting local restaurants is a must. The city boasts numerous restaurants that showcase traditional Dutch cuisine combined with contemporary twists. Some of the best local restaurants in Amsterdam include Guts & Glory, De Kas, and Van Kerkwijk. These hidden gems provide a unique culinary experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
Exploring Ethnic Cuisine in Amsterdam
While Amsterdam is known for its fries and stroopwafels, the city’s diverse culinary scene extends well beyond these popular treats. The multicultural metropolis offers an array of ethnic cuisine options that will satisfy any palate.
Indonesian Rijsttafel
One must-try dish is Indonesian rijsttafel, which translates to “rice table.” This meal includes a variety of small Indonesian dishes served with rice, offering a range of flavors and textures. One of the best places to enjoy rijsttafel is at Bali Restaurant, which has been a local favorite since 1975.
Surinamese Roti
If you’re craving Caribbean flavors, try Surinamese roti, a flatbread stuffed with curried vegetables and meat. The dish can be found at the popular Warung Spang Makandra in Amsterdam East, which specializes in Surinamese and Javanese cuisine.
Middle Eastern Shawarma
For a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, head to Falafel City in Amsterdam’s Jordaan neighborhood. Here, you’ll find savory shawarma, a dish made of thinly sliced meat that’s been marinated in spices and cooked on a rotisserie.
Chinese Dim Sum
Dim sum, a style of Chinese cuisine consisting of small bites of food, is a popular choice for many foodies. One of the best places to sample this delicacy is at Sea Palace, a traditional Chinese restaurant located on a boat in Amsterdam’s harbor.
These are just a few of the many ethnic cuisine options available in Amsterdam. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai, Mexican, or Ethiopian, the city has it all. So, take a gastronomic journey and explore the diverse flavors of Amsterdam.
Sustainable Dining in Amsterdam
As sustainability is one of Amsterdam’s core values, it’s no surprise that sustainable dining options abound in the city. From farm-to-table restaurants to eateries that source their ingredients locally, you’ll find a wide range of dining options that prioritize sustainable practices.
Some of the must-try sustainable restaurants in Amsterdam include Cafe de Ceuvel, which boasts a completely circular menu, and The Dutch Weed Burger Joint, where you can indulge in a delicious plant-based burger made with sustainably harvested Dutch seaweed. Another great option is Bolenius, known for serving up Michelin-starred cuisine created with locally sourced ingredients.
Sustainable dining in Amsterdam not only supports the environment, but it also ensures that you’re indulging in high-quality, delicious dishes made with seasonally fresh ingredients. So, if you’re looking for a guilt-free way to indulge in must-try local foods in Amsterdam beyond fries and stroopwafels, sustainable dining is the way to go.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned about Amsterdam’s must-try local foods beyond fries and stroopwafels, it’s time to indulge in the city’s diverse culinary offerings. From authentic Dutch dishes and street food delights to hidden food gems and unique dining experiences, Amsterdam’s food scene is sure to leave you satisfied.
Don’t miss out on exploring the local food markets and uncovering the city’s hidden culinary treasures, including charming local eateries and innovative fusion restaurants.
And if sustainability is important to you, check out Amsterdam’s best sustainable restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious dishes while supporting environmentally friendly practices.
So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure beyond the usual in Amsterdam, tasting the must-try local foods in Amsterdam beyond fries and stroopwafels.
