Netherlands

What to eat in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s food scene mixes Dutch comfort fare with colonial influences and a lively street‑food culture. You’ll find everything from herring stalls to Indonesian rijsttafel.

Local dishes to try

Stroopwafel

Thin waffle filled with caramel syrup, sold at markets and cafés all day.

Haring

Raw herring eaten with onions and pickles, a traditional snack from street stalls.

Bitterballen

Crispy breadcrumb‑coated meat ragout balls, served as bar snacks.

Poffertjes

Small fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, found at fairs and street vendors.

Kibbeling

Battered cod pieces, usually served with garlic mayo, popular at fish stalls.

Rijsttafel

Indonesian banquet of many small dishes, available in Indonesian restaurants.

Patat met mayo

Thick Dutch fries topped with mayonnaise, sold from frituren across the city.

Heineken

Locally brewed pale lager, widely available in bars and cafés.

Where to eat

1
Albert Cuyp Market
Try herring, stroopwafels and fresh fruit at this bustling street market.
2
De Pijp
A multicultural neighbourhood with many Indonesian, Surinamese and Asian eateries.
3
Jordaan
Quieter canalside streets offering traditional Dutch cafés and boutique bakeries.

Photos: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons

Tips for eating out

Lunch is usually served 12‑14 h; many cafés close for a short break in the afternoon.
Leave about 5‑10 % of the bill if service isn’t included; no need to tip heavily.
Reserve a table for dinner after 19 h in popular areas, especially on weekends.