A Culinary Experience of Amsterdam

Amsterdam has not only a lot of sights and other attractions to offer, but can also be seen culinary. In the Dutch capital there are several restaurants, cafes and bars. 

What are typical Dutch specialties and which four culinary highlights I can recommend from my travels to Amsterdam, you will learn in this article. 

What Is Typical Dutch Food? 

Dutch Cheese 

When I think of Dutch food, Dutch cheese immediately comes to mind. 

The Dutch are known for their cheese and also in Amsterdam you can find some cheese stores. Especially on the flower market you can find some stores with a colorful selection of cheeses. 

By the way, you can also often sample the many different cheeses in the stores for free! 

Dutch Fries 

The Dutch have a very distinctive french fry culture. 

I have to admit that I absolutely love fries (yes, I know, not healthy). Especially the Dutch fries, these are often much thicker than the typical German fries. Often there are also fancy sauces to it.

I’ll tell you below which fry house you shouldn’t miss in Amsterdam. 

Stroopwafels

Another typical Dutch specialty are stroopwafels. They consist of two round dough wafers filled with sweet caramel. A rather sweet snack, but one that you should definitely try. 

Pannenkoeken 

Pancakes (or Dutch Pannenkoeken) are also one of the classics of Dutch cuisine. Usually there is even a whole Pannenkoekenhuis in the city, i.e. a restaurant that specializes in pancakes. There, a pancake can be eaten in every conceivable way, whether savory or sweet. 

Of course, there are many other Dutch specialties. This was only a small selection of the typical Dutch food offer. 

And maybe you noticed something: Since I am a vegetarian, I have – quite unselfishly, of course – omitted fish and meat specialties. But typical examples would be here of course: bitterballen, frikandeln, croquettes or even Haring. Everything that the frying heart desires, so to speak 😉

My Four Culinary Highlights in Amsterdam 

But now to my culinary recommendations for Amsterdam. 

Van Wonderen Stroopwafels 

You probably won’t be able to walk past this store easily, at least not if you have a sweet tooth like me. The fantastic scent alone as you walk by literally forces you to stop. 

The stroopwafels look exceptionally beautiful. You can choose the sizes and very different toppings and sauces for your Stroopwafels. By the way, also a great gift, because the packaging also looks very chic. 

Manneken Pis

Probably a very well-known French fry place by now, with a plethora of different sauces. 

Here you get exactly the thick Dutch fries that I mentioned above. However, only to take away or to eat at one of the standing places in front of the snack bar. But these are usually quickly occupied, because the chip shop is extremely popular. For me, however, definitely a must when you’re in Amsterdam! 

Pancake Bakery 

I have been here a few times and have eaten very tasty pancakes. If you like pancakes, this is the place for you. I personally love the classic apple pancake, but the savory pancakes are also quite delicious. 

De Drie Graefjes 

A very cute little restaurant with delicious cakes and coffee in the alleys of Amsterdam. Here you can enjoy wonderful coffee and homemade cake in a prime location. The cafe exists several times in Amsterdam. 

There are definitely plenty more restaurants, takeaways, cafes, etc. that are definitely worth checking out. If you have any other good tips, feel free to let me know below in the comments!