Restaurants in Amsterdam
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsMadre Espadin
Monte Lobos
Tepeztate (Mezcal Otros)
5 Elementos - Madrecuishe
7 Misterios
El Mero Mero
4 Agaves
Tepeztate
Tobasiche
Tobala (Mezcal Kotch)
Espadin
Signature Dishes
Amsterdam's culinary scene is characterized by hearty, simple dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, combined with international influences, especially Indonesian. Expect to find a mix of traditional Dutch snacks, seafood, and dishes reflecting the city's multicultural population.
Stamppot
A traditional Dutch dish consisting of mashed potatoes mixed with one or more vegetables, such as sauerkraut, kale, endive, or carrots. Often served with rookworst (smoked sausage) or gehaktbal (meatball).
Bitterballen
Deep-fried meatballs, breaded and filled with a rich, creamy beef ragout. Usually served with mustard as a snack or as part of a 'bittergarnituur' (a platter of fried snacks).
Haring (Raw Herring)
Raw herring, typically served with chopped onions and pickles. Eaten by holding the herring by the tail and lowering it into your mouth. Best enjoyed fresh from a herring cart ('haringkar').
Poffertjes
Small, fluffy pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour. Traditionally served with powdered sugar and butter.
Oliebollen
A type of doughnut, deep-fried and often filled with raisins or currants. Traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve.
Patatje Oorlog
French fries served with mayonnaise, peanut sauce (sataysaus), and chopped onions. 'Oorlog' means 'war' in Dutch, referring to the chaotic mix of toppings.
Indonesian Rijsttafel
A elaborate meal of numerous small Indonesian dishes, ranging from mild to spicy. Reflects the Dutch colonial history with Indonesia and showcases the diverse flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
Stroopwafels
Thin waffles made from two layers of baked dough with a caramel-like syrup filling in the middle. Often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
Local Tips
To truly experience Amsterdam's culinary scene, consider these tips for finding the best local food and navigating the dining landscape.
Visit a 'Haringkar'
For an authentic Amsterdam experience, try raw herring from a street vendor ('haringkar'). Ask for 'een Hollandse Nieuwe' (a new Dutch herring) for the freshest catch.
Explore the Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market is a great place to sample local snacks, try fresh stroopwafels, and find ingredients for your own cooking.
Indonesian Food Beyond Rijsttafel
While Rijsttafel is popular, explore smaller Indonesian restaurants ('warungs') for more authentic and affordable Indonesian dishes.
Try 'Daghap' for Budget Dining
Many restaurants offer 'daghappen' (daily specials) which are a budget-friendly way to sample their cuisine.
Look for 'FEBO' for Late Night Snacks
FEBO is a chain of vending machine-style fast food restaurants where you can get hot snacks like kroketten and frikandellen at any time of day or night.
1017 AW
About Amsterdam
Food History
Amsterdam's cuisine reflects its history as a major trading port. Influences from around the globe, particularly Indonesia (due to colonial ties), have shaped the city's culinary landscape. Traditional Dutch staples are combined with spices and flavors from the East, resulting in a unique and diverse food scene.
Food Culture
Food in Amsterdam is often enjoyed in a casual and social setting. 'Gezelligheid,' a Dutch concept meaning cozy and convivial, is central to the dining experience. Cafes ('bruin cafés') and terraces offer a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy snacks and drinks with friends.
Café Culture
Traditional Dutch cafes ('bruin cafés') are central to social life. They offer a wide selection of beers, snacks like bitterballen, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends.
Market Shopping
Amsterdam's markets, such as the Albert Cuyp Market, are vibrant hubs for fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and street food. Shopping at these markets is a great way to experience local flavors and interact with vendors.
Street Food
Street food plays a significant role in Amsterdam's food scene. From herring carts to patatje oorlog stands, there are plenty of quick and tasty options to grab on the go.
Dining Out Early
Dinner in Amsterdam often starts earlier than in other European cities, typically around 6-8 PM. Many restaurants offer 'daghappen' (daily specials) for a budget-friendly meal.

