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Best food in Amsterdam: What to eat and where to find it
Discover the best food in Amsterdam—from stroopwafels to rijsttafel—plus where to eat it and what dishes locals say you must try.
For centuries, Amsterdammers have gathered around street carts to perform one of the city’s most iconic culinary rituals: the haring huddle. They would hold a raw herring by the tail, tilt their heads back, and slide it whole into their mouths. It’s not for the faint of heart (or stomach!) — but it’s a bold bite of tradition that still draws a crowd.
Don’t worry — you don’t have to go full haring huddle to enjoy the best food in Amsterdam. But if you’re curious about must-try food in Amsterdam, you’re in for a treat (or ten).
In this article, you’ll discover not only what food to eat in Amsterdam — but exactly where to find it and why those spots are worth the visit.
Ready to eat your way through the Netherlands’ most flavorful city? Let’s dig in.
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Stroopwafels: The ultimate Dutch sweet treat
Thin, chewy, and filled with spiced caramel syrup, stroopwafels are one of the most beloved traditional Dutch dishes. First made in Gouda in the 18th century, they’ve gone from humble bakery scraps to market staples across Amsterdam.
Served fresh or dipped in chocolate, this treat is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth exploring the city—and one of the best snacks in Amsterdam.
Dietary notes: Contains gluten and dairy. Not suitable for vegans or celiacs.
Where to try it:
- Albert Cuyp Market: Freshly pressed stroopwafels are reason enough to visit this buzzing street market in De Pijp. Grab one warm off the iron, with caramel so soft it nearly drips. It’s one of the most authentic ways to experience this classic.
- Van Wonderen Stroopwafels: Just steps from Dam Square, this picture-perfect shop is famous for its stroopwafels dipped in chocolate and colorful toppings like M&Ms, crushed nuts, and sprinkles. It’s a tourist favorite for good reason—sweet, theatrical, and undeniably fun.
- Lanskroon Bakery: For a more traditional take, head to this family-run bakery on the edge of the Jordaan district. Their oversized stroopwafels come in unique flavors like honey or fig, and their riverside setting makes the experience even sweeter.
Instagrammable eats: From gooey stroopwafels to sky-high pancakes, Amsterdam is full of photo-ready bites. An eSIM for Amsterdam keeps you online for real-time sharing—no WiFi hunting is needed.
Bitterballen: Crispy meatballs with a creamy surprise
If you’re wondering what food Amsterdam is known for, this is near the top of the list. Crispy on the outside and meltingly smooth on the inside, bitterballen are deep-fried beef ragout balls served with mustard and a cold beer.
Found on nearly every bar menu in Amsterdam, they’re the ultimate Dutch snack—perfect for sharing. A favorite among locals, Dutch meatballs pair well with any relaxed lunch. This Dutch food is popular among students coming to Holland as it is quick, filling, and affordable.
Dietary notes: Contains beef, gluten, and dairy. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Where to try it:
- Café de Tuin: A cozy bar in the Jordaan district, this spot is loved by locals and known for serving some of the most authentic bitterballen in town. Grab a seat outside and pair them with a Dutch beer.
- Foodhallen: This indoor food market in a converted tram depot offers modern twists on traditional Dutch dishes, including vegan bitterballen made with mushrooms or jackfruit. Great for groups curious about what food to try in Amsterdam.
- Café Loetje: Famous for its steaks and bar bites, Loetje also serves a crowd-pleasing plate of bitterballen in a lively, casual setting. It’s a great place for a relaxed lunch, early dinner, or laid-back night out.
Dutch pancakes: Big, buttery, and built for toppings
Flatter than American pancakes but thicker than crêpes, Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) come sweet or savory—think bacon, cheese, or apples with cinnamon.
Served in cozy cafés and family-friendly spots across Amsterdam, they’re a staple of Dutch food and an anytime meal—breakfast, lunch, or even dessert. Whether classic or creative, pannenkoeken are a delicious way to eat your way through the city.
Dietary notes: Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. Vegetarian-friendly. Vegan and gluten-free options available at select locations.
Where to try it:
- Pancakes Amsterdam: With several locations across the city, including one near Dam Square, this spot specializes in both traditional and creative pannenkoeken. Their menu includes gluten-free and vegan versions, making it a top pick for all diets.
- The Happy Pig Pancake Shop: Tucked into a small side street near the Nine Streets, this cheerful café serves organic Dutch pancakes rolled and filled to order. A good mix of sweet and savory, with a cozy, laid-back feel.
- De Carrousel Pannenkoeken: A carousel-themed restaurant just off Leidseplein, known for its old-school charm and generous portions. A favorite among families and anyone nostalgic for a classic Dutch pancake experience.
Haring: A salty snack for the bold and brave
Haring, or raw herring, is one of the most iconic and adventurous bites of Dutch food. Lightly cured and served with pickles and onions, this classic street food can be eaten by hand or in a bun (broodje haring).
Loved by locals, it’s a bold, salty snack that offers a true taste of the Netherlands—and a must for curious foodies exploring Amsterdam.
Dietary notes: Contains fish. Gluten-free without bread. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Where to try it:
- Frens Haringhandel: Centrally located near Koningsplein, this popular stand serves haring the traditional way and is a great intro spot for curious first-timers.
- Stubbe’s Haring: A family-run stall near Haarlemmerstraat with canal views. Their herring is freshly sliced and always high quality — beloved by locals.
- Vishandel Molenaar: Located in a quieter neighborhood in East Amsterdam, this low-key seafood bar offers an authentic experience without the tourist crowds.
If you’re brave enough for haring happen, you should share it with your friends and family. Get one of the best eSIMs for the Netherlands with unlimited data that allows you to stream this in real-time.
Indonesian rijsttafel: A colonial-era culinary tradition
Rijsttafel, or “rice table,” is a shared meal of small, flavorful Indonesian dishes served alongside rice. Introduced during Dutch colonial rule, it’s now one of the most exciting and varied dining experiences in Amsterdam.
Expect bold spices, sweet-sour flavors, and endless variety — making rijsttafel a unique way to explore the blend of Dutch and Indonesian food traditions in the city.
Dietary notes: Varies widely by dish. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at most rijsttafel restaurants.
Where to try it:
- Restaurant Blauw: A modern, upscale Amsterdam restaurant near Vondelpark offering fine dining and a refined take on traditional rijsttafel with beautifully presented dishes and excellent wine pairings.
- Kartika: A long-established favorite with a more casual setting. Their generous portions and well-spiced dishes make it a top choice for a cozy, flavorful meal.
- Puri Mas: Located near Leidseplein, this elegant restaurant offers an extensive rijsttafel menu and warm, attentive service—ideal for a special night out.
Dutch apple pie: A thick slice of cinnamon comfort
Appeltaart, or Dutch apple pie, is deep, buttery, and packed with cinnamon-laced apples. Usually served warm with whipped cream, it’s the dessert of choice in cafés across Amsterdam. More rustic than its American cousin, this sweet treat is an essential part of Dutch food culture and a comforting companion after a long walk through the city.
Dietary notes: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. Vegetarian-friendly.
Where to try it:
- Winkel 43: Arguably the most famous apple pie in Amsterdam, with a generous crust, soft spiced filling, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. Always busy, always worth it.
- Café Papeneiland: One of the oldest cafés in the city, this spot near the Jordaan serves a traditional appeltaart in a cozy, wood-paneled setting.
- De Laatste Kruimel: A charming bakery tucked near the Amstel River, known for its rustic pies, vintage decor, and excellent coffee. A great place to unwind and indulge.
Smoked eel: A surprising seafood delicacy
Smoky, silky, and packed with flavor, smoked eel (gerookte paling) has been a prized part of Dutch food for centuries. Served on bread or on its own, it’s a more refined — and less touristy — alternative to herring. For adventurous eaters looking to taste something special in Amsterdam, eel is a traditional treat that still surprises.
Dietary notes: Contains fish. Gluten-free without bread. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Where to try it:
- Frank’s Smoke House: A respected artisanal smokehouse that supplies some of the restaurants in Amsterdam, but also has a shop and café where you can try gerookte paling in a relaxed setting.
- Stubbe’s Haring: Known for its herring, this family-run stall also serves excellent eel, offering a quick, high-quality snack near the canals.
- Holtkamp: While mostly famous for pastries, this elegant deli also sells eel on soft bread—a well-kept secret among locals who crave something savory with their lunch.
Kibbeling: Crunchy, golden street food perfection
Battered, deep-fried, and served hot with garlic sauce, kibbeling is the ultimate Dutch street food. Usually made from cod, these crisp fish bites are a favorite snack or quick lunch across markets and stalls in Amsterdam. If you want to eat like a local while exploring the city, kibbeling is crunchy proof that simple can be seriously satisfying.
Dietary notes: Contains fish and gluten. Not suitable for celiacs or vegans.
Where to try it:
- Vishandel Albert Cuyp: Located in the famous street market, this stall fries up piping hot kibbeling right in front of you. It’s a must-stop for fresh, classic flavor.
- Foodhallen: For a more modern experience, head to this indoor food court, where you can try kibbeling with creative dips and a glass of white wine or craft beer.
- Fish Tails: A small but respected vendor known for sustainable seafood and crisp, golden kibbeling, served with a side of local charm and perfectly seasoned sauces.
Gouda and Dutch cheeses: Creamy, crumbly, and world-famous
The Netherlands is a cheese-lover’s paradise. From mild Gouda to sharp aged wheels, Dutch cheeses show up everywhere—from tasting rooms to snack plates with bread and wine. Whether you’re trying samples at a market or sitting down in one of the best restaurants, cheese is a core part of Dutch food culture and one of the tastiest things to eat in Amsterdam.
Dietary notes: Contains dairy. Not suitable for vegans.
Where to try it:
- Reypenaer Tasting Room: Offers a guided cheese-tasting experience in a historic canal house, where you’ll learn how aging affects flavor and texture. Includes optional wine pairings.
- Henri Willig Cheese Shop: With multiple locations throughout Amsterdam, this well-known brand offers free samples, knowledgeable staff, and beautifully packaged cheeses to take home.
- De Kaaskamer: A cozy shop known for its vast selection of artisan cheeses and house-made specialties. A favorite among locals for good reason.
Stamppot: A mashed Dutch classic made for cold days
Simple and satisfying, stamppot is a mash of potatoes with vegetables like kale (boerenkool) or sauerkraut (zuurkool), topped with smoked sausage (rookworst). It’s one of the most comforting and hearty Dutch dishes, often served in homestyle restaurants in Amsterdam. Especially in winter, it’s the kind of no-frills meal that warms you up fast and fills you up for hours.
Dietary notes: Usually contains dairy and meat. Vegetarian and vegan versions are available at some restaurants.
Where to try it:
- Moeders: This beloved spot near Westerpark serves up nostalgic Dutch comfort food, complete with old family photos on the walls and generous portions of stamppot with sausage.
- The Pantry: A charming, centrally located restaurant offering multiple versions of stamppot—including vegetarian options—served in a cozy, candlelit space.
- Bistro Bij Ons: This Amsterdam bistro offers a homey menu of classic Dutch dishes, including rich stamppot paired with a glass of white wine or local beer.
Stay connected while exploring best food in Amsterdam
With so many delicious options across the city’s restaurants, street stalls, and cafés, it’s worth creating your own Amsterdam food guide before you arrive. Mapping out the best places to eat in Amsterdam can help you avoid tourist traps and make room for everything—from deep-fried bitterballen to fresh stroopwafels, smoky gerookte paling, and piping hot stamppot.
Of course, the best bites sometimes happen by surprise—and that’s where staying connected makes all the difference. With a Holafly eSIM for the Netherlands, you can update your plans on the go, find the nearest cheese shop, or grab last-minute reservations without missing a beat.
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With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.
