Amsterdam is a fascinating and BUSY city. While the city is famous for its incredible architecture, history and museums (Rijks and Van Gogh for two), its food scene deserves just as much attention. From warm Sroopwafels to comforting Dutch classics, this guide highlights what to eat in Amsterdam if you love food just as much as travel.
Stroopwafels: The One You Can’t Skip
If you try only one thing in Amsterdam, let it be a freshly made stroopwafel. These thin waffle cookie sandwiches are filled with a gooey caramel filling and can be found in cafes, as well as at street vendors.
While delicious on their own cold, locals often place them over a hot coffee to soften the center—simple, brilliant, and unforgettable. Skip the packaged versions (the only way we can find them locally) and seek out market stalls or small bakeries for the real experience. There are several varieties including ones dipped in chocolate and covered in sprinkles. But, we were advised to stick with the traditional Stroopie and we weren’t disappointed.
Bitterballen & Café Culture
Amsterdam’s café culture is relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect place to sample bitterballen—crispy, golden croquettes filled with rich beef ragout. Served piping hot with mustard, they’re a classic order alongside a drink and a great introduction to Dutch comfort food.
We were introduced to this salty appetizer while exploring the city on a canal ride. Our boat literally stopped by a local restaurant and picked up freshly made bitterballen for the passengers to enjoy. Those, along with wine, beer, crackers and cheese, made for a relaxing experience. Loved it!
Poffertjes: Small Pancakes, Big Flavor
Poffertjes are mini, fluffy pancakes traditionally served with powdered sugar and butter. Light yet indulgent, they’re a favorite at markets and casual eateries and are perfect for breakfast, dessert or snack. There are other varieties available as well, including poffertjes with strawberries and whipped cream.
Dutch Apple Pie Worth Sitting Down For
Dutch apple pie is thicker, spiced, and more substantial than its American cousin. Often served with whipped cream, it’s the kind of dessert that you’ll make an excuse to try any time of day.
In fact, I decided to enjoy mine for breakfast in the restaurant at the Rijksmuseum before our tour. If you can’t have dessert for breakfast when on vacation, when else can you?
Raw Herring with Pickles and Onions
I’ll be honest, I’m adding this just because we heard so much about it. While I’m sure some find it delicious, the thought of raw fish and onions was pretty much last on my list of things to try. I suppose I could have asked for it and to just leave out the fish and onions. But a plate of just pickles seemed to defeat the purpose.
Stamppot
Mashed potatoes mixed with kale, endive, or sauerkraut, usually with smoked sausage (Rookworst). I’ve had this and I think it’s pretty good. You can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes and sausage in my opinion. And, there are people that jazz it up a bit by adding bacon. This one I’m going to need to try my own recreation soon and let you try it for yourself!
Where Food Meets Travel
What makes eating in Amsterdam so special isn’t just the food—it’s the setting. Canal views, streetside cafés, and a pace that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the present instead of running from one place to the next.
I will say that when on tours, the locals mentioned that they didn’t feel that their local cuisine was anything special. They mentioned that Amsterdam is a melting pot of many cultures and cuisines. When heading out to a restaurant they don’t search for Dutch Cuisine, they are ususually looking for Indonesian or Surinamese food. But, while we visited, we did what we could to try traditional food. And, what we experienced, we very much enjoyed.
Travel Tip
Plan food stops into your sightseeing days. Markets, cafés, and bakeries are part of the experience—not just refueling points. Make it a point to not run, but relax and mull over your experiences.