Amsterdam is a city that never ceases to surprise, with its rich history, picturesque canals, and vibrant culture. But during my recent visit, I discovered that the city’s culinary scene is just as compelling as its iconic sights. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming street food stalls, Amsterdam offers a gastronomic adventure that is as diverse as it is delicious. In this blog, I’ll share my personal experience exploring some of the city’s most noteworthy eateries and street food gems. Whether you’re a foodie at heart or simply looking for memorable meals during your travels, Amsterdam has something to offer everyone.
1. Fine Dining at Restaurant Rijks
My culinary journey in Amsterdam began at Restaurant Rijks, located in the Rijksmuseum. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a dining experience that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in Dutch culture. The moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the modern, yet warm ambiance. The large windows provide a stunning view of the museum’s garden, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.
The Menu:
The menu at Rijks is a celebration of local ingredients, with dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Netherlands. I opted for the chef’s tasting menu, a multi-course meal that took me on a journey through the best of Dutch cuisine. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. One of the standout dishes was the North Sea Crab with apple, fennel, and vadouvan. The freshness of the crab combined with the subtle spices was a revelation. Another highlight was the Dutch lamb, served with artichoke, black garlic, and wild herbs. The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the accompanying herbs added a delightful earthy note.
Booking a Table:
Reservations are highly recommended at Rijks, especially for dinner. I made my reservation through TheFork, a reliable platform that offers a seamless booking experience.
2. The Authentic Dutch Pancake Experience at Pancakes Amsterdam
No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without indulging in traditional Dutch pancakes. I headed to Pancakes Amsterdam, a popular spot known for its wide variety of sweet and savory pancakes. Located near the Anne Frank House, this cozy eatery is a great place to start your day or take a break after sightseeing.
The Menu:
The menu at Pancakes Amsterdam features a mix of traditional Dutch pancakes and their thinner, crêpe-like cousins. I decided to try both the classic and some more creative options. The Dutch Apple Pancake with cinnamon and sugar was a nostalgic treat, reminiscent of apple pie, but with the delightful texture of a pancake. For something savory, I opted for the Goat Cheese Pancake with spinach, pine nuts, and honey. The combination of creamy goat cheese, fresh spinach, and sweet honey was a perfect balance of flavors.
What Makes It Special:
What I loved most about Pancakes Amsterdam was the authenticity and quality of the ingredients. The pancakes are made with organic flour and free-range eggs, ensuring a wholesome and delicious meal. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bite.
Booking a Table:
While Pancakes Amsterdam is a casual spot, it can get quite busy, especially on weekends. I found it convenient to book a table through Pancakes Amsterdam’s official website to avoid the wait.
3. Seafood Delights at The Seafood Bar
Amsterdam’s proximity to the North Sea means that fresh seafood is always on the menu, and The Seafood Bar is one of the best places to enjoy it. Located in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, this restaurant is a seafood lover’s paradise. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with a modern, maritime-inspired interior that sets the tone for a great meal.
The Menu:
The Seafood Bar offers a wide variety of dishes, from fresh oysters to elaborate seafood platters. I started with a dozen Zeeuwse Creuse Oysters, which were incredibly fresh and briny, served with a classic mignonette sauce. For the main course, I couldn’t resist the Seafood Platter, a generous selection of lobster, prawns, mussels, and crab. Every item on the platter was cooked to perfection, highlighting the natural flavors of the seafood. The lobster bisque was another highlight, rich and creamy with a deep, complex flavor that only comes from a well-prepared broth.
What Makes It Special:
The Seafood Bar is committed to sustainability, sourcing their seafood from responsible suppliers. This commitment to quality and sustainability shines through in every dish, making dining here not just a treat for the palate, but also a choice you can feel good about.
Booking a Table:
Given its popularity, I booked my table through OpenTable, which allowed me to choose the best time and also provided useful information on the menu and special offers.
4. A Sweet Stop at Van Stapele Koekmakerij
Amsterdam is also famous for its sweet treats, and no sweet tooth should leave the city without a visit to Van Stapele Koekmakerij. This tiny cookie shop in the heart of Amsterdam is renowned for serving what many claim to be the best cookies in the world. The shop itself is charming, with a vintage feel that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The Cookie:
Van Stapele’s fame rests on a single cookie: a rich, dark chocolate cookie filled with gooey white chocolate. The moment I took my first bite, I understood the hype. The cookie was perfectly crisp on the outside, with a warm, molten center that oozed with creamy white chocolate. It’s the kind of treat that’s so indulgent, you’ll want to savor every bite.
What Makes It Special:
What sets Van Stapele apart is their commitment to perfection. They focus on doing one thing exceptionally well, and it shows. Each cookie is baked fresh throughout the day, ensuring that you always get a warm, freshly baked treat. The shop’s nostalgic ambiance adds to the experience, making it a must-visit for anyone with a love for sweets.
How to Get Your Cookie:
Van Stapele doesn’t take reservations, and the shop often has a line out the door. However, the line moves quickly, and the cookies are well worth the wait. They also offer boxes of cookies that make perfect gifts or souvenirs to take home.
5. Street Food at Albert Cuyp Market
For a true taste of Amsterdam’s local flavor, I made my way to the Albert Cuyp Market in the De Pijp district. This bustling market is a treasure trove of street food, offering everything from fresh produce to Dutch delicacies. Walking through the market, the air is filled with the enticing aromas of freshly cooked food, making it impossible to resist sampling a little of everything.
Must-Try Street Foods:
- Stroopwafels: One of the highlights of my visit was trying a freshly made stroopwafel, a thin waffle filled with warm caramel syrup. The waffle was crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, with the caramel providing just the right amount of sweetness. It was the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the market.
- Herring: Another iconic Dutch treat I couldn’t pass up was raw herring. Served with onions and pickles, it’s a must-try for those looking to experience traditional Dutch flavors. The fish was incredibly fresh, with a mild, slightly salty taste that was complemented by the sharpness of the onions.
- Kibbeling: I also indulged in some kibbeling, deep-fried pieces of white fish served with a tangy garlic sauce. The fish was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and the garlic sauce added a delicious zing that kept me coming back for more.
What Makes It Special:
The Albert Cuyp Market is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience. The lively atmosphere, the friendly vendors, and the wide variety of foods available make it a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re looking to try something new or simply want a quick and tasty meal, this market has something for everyone.
When to Visit:
The market is open every day except Sunday, and I found it’s best to visit in the late morning or early afternoon when the stalls are fully set up, and the crowds are just starting to build.
6. Dining at De Kas: From Farm to Fork
For a unique dining experience that emphasizes sustainability and freshness, De Kas is a must-visit. Located in a former greenhouse in Frankendael Park, De Kas is a restaurant where much of the produce is grown on-site or sourced from local farms. The restaurant’s philosophy of “farm to fork” is evident in every dish, with a menu that changes daily based on what’s in season.
The Menu:
De Kas offers a set menu that showcases the best of each season. During my visit, the menu featured an array of fresh vegetables, herbs, and locally sourced meats and fish. One of the standout dishes was a salad of heirloom tomatoes, picked just hours before being served. The tomatoes were bursting with flavor, complemented by a light, herb-infused dressing. Another highlight was the pan-seared sea bass, served with a medley of garden vegetables. The fish was perfectly cooked, with a crispy skin and tender flesh, and the vegetables added a vibrant, fresh element to the dish.
What Makes It Special:
Dining at De Kas is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that connects you with the land and the seasons. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and quality shines through in every dish, and the serene setting in the greenhouse adds to the overall experience.
Booking a Table:
Due to its popularity, I booked my table well in advance through OpenTable. The platform made it easy to select the perfect time and also provided options for special dietary requests.
Amsterdam’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From high-end dining at Michelin-starred restaurants to the simple pleasures of street food, there’s something to satisfy every palate. My journey through the city’s eateries was filled with memorable dishes, warm hospitality, and a deeper appreciation for Dutch cuisine.
When planning your culinary adventures in Amsterdam, I highly recommend making reservations where possible, especially at popular spots like Rijks and De Kas. Platforms like TheFork, OpenTable, and Pancakes Amsterdam’s official website are great resources for booking tables and discovering special offers. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply love good food, Amsterdam is a city that promises a rich and rewarding culinary experience.
