I’ve had the pleasure of exploring culinary landscapes across the globe. One city that left an indelible mark on my palate is Amsterdam. Known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, Amsterdam also boasts a dynamic and diverse food scene. From traditional Dutch delicacies to innovative international cuisine, this city offers a gastronomic adventure that is both delightful and unforgettable. I’ll share my detailed experiences and recommendations for exploring local food and restaurants in Amsterdam. I’ll describe three of my personal culinary adventures and suggest four additional activities to enrich your food journey in this charming city.
My Culinary Adventures in Amsterdam
1. A Traditional Dutch Breakfast at De Bakkerswinkel
Location: Warmoesstraat 69, 1012 HX Amsterdam, Netherlands
Overview: De Bakkerswinkel, or “The Baker’s Shop,” is a cozy bakery and café located in the heart of Amsterdam. Known for its freshly baked bread, scones, and pastries, this quaint spot is perfect for experiencing a traditional Dutch breakfast.
Experience:
I started my day with a visit to De Bakkerswinkel, drawn in by the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods. The interior is warm and rustic, with wooden tables and shelves lined with jars of homemade jam and loaves of bread. I opted for a traditional Dutch breakfast, which included freshly baked bread, a variety of cheeses, cold cuts, and a selection of their famous scones served with clotted cream and jam.
The bread was wonderfully crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, and the scones were a highlight—light, fluffy, and perfectly complemented by the rich clotted cream and tangy jam. The cheeses, a staple in Dutch cuisine, ranged from mild and creamy to robust and flavorful, offering a perfect balance to the meal.
Services and Tips:
- Service: The staff were friendly and attentive, providing recommendations and ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
- Tips: Arrive early to avoid the morning rush and secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
- Location and Access: Located in the city center, it’s easily accessible by foot, bike, or tram (nearest tram stop: Dam Square).
- Booking: Reservations are not typically necessary, but it can be busy during peak hours.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Cozy atmosphere, high-quality baked goods, and a genuine local experience.
- Cons: Can get crowded during peak hours, and seating is somewhat limited.
2. A Canal-Side Lunch at De Kas
Location: Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE Amsterdam, Netherlands
Overview: De Kas is a unique farm-to-table restaurant situated in a renovated greenhouse. The restaurant emphasizes sustainability and uses fresh ingredients harvested from its own gardens.
Experience:
My lunch at De Kas was a highlight of my Amsterdam trip. The setting itself is extraordinary—a grand greenhouse filled with natural light, surrounded by lush gardens where many of the restaurant’s ingredients are grown. The menu is seasonal and changes daily based on the harvest.
I enjoyed a multi-course lunch featuring a variety of dishes that showcased the fresh, vibrant flavors of the ingredients. Highlights included a delicate beetroot carpaccio, a flavorful tomato and basil salad, and a perfectly cooked piece of fish with garden-fresh herbs. Each dish was beautifully presented and tasted incredibly fresh, with flavors that celebrated the natural produce.
Services and Tips:
- Service: The service was impeccable, with knowledgeable staff who were passionate about the food and happy to explain each dish.
- Tips: Consider booking a table for lunch to enjoy the full daylight experience in the greenhouse.
- Location and Access: Situated in Frankendael Park, it’s a bit further from the city center but accessible by bike or tram (nearest tram stop: Middenweg).
- Booking: Reservations are essential, especially for lunch and dinner.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Unique setting, exceptionally fresh and flavorful dishes, and a strong focus on sustainability.
- Cons: Higher price point, and it’s a bit off the beaten path.
3. Indonesian Rijstaffel at Restaurant Blauw
Location: Amstelveenseweg 158-160, 1075 XN Amsterdam, Netherlands
Overview: Restaurant Blauw is renowned for its Indonesian Rijstaffel, a feast consisting of multiple small dishes that allow diners to sample a wide variety of flavors and textures.
Experience:
Indonesian cuisine has a significant presence in Amsterdam due to the country’s colonial history, and Restaurant Blauw is one of the best places to experience it. The Rijstaffel (or “rice table”) at Blauw was an elaborate affair, featuring an array of dishes including satays, sambals, curries, and stir-fries, all served with rice.
Each dish was a burst of flavor, from the spicy beef rendang to the fragrant chicken satay with peanut sauce. The variety of dishes allowed for a comprehensive taste of Indonesian cuisine, showcasing the rich spices and diverse ingredients that characterize it.
Services and Tips:
- Service: The staff were courteous and efficient, providing detailed descriptions of each dish and suggestions on the order in which to enjoy them.
- Tips: Go with a group to fully appreciate the variety of dishes offered in the Rijstaffel.
- Location and Access: Located in the Oud-Zuid district, it’s accessible by tram or bike (nearest tram stop: Amstelveenseweg).
- Booking: Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Extensive and flavorful menu, excellent service, and a great introduction to Indonesian cuisine.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming if dining alone due to the large number of dishes.
Additional Recommended Activities
1. Cheese Tasting at Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room
Location: Singel 182, 1015 AJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
Overview: Reypenaer is a family-owned cheese company offering guided cheese tastings in their historic tasting room. The experience includes a selection of their finest aged cheeses paired with wines.
Services and Tips:
- Service: The guided tastings are led by knowledgeable hosts who provide insights into the cheese-making process and the characteristics of each cheese.
- Tips: Book in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Location and Access: Centrally located along the Singel canal, easily reachable by foot or tram (nearest tram stop: Spui).
- Booking: Reservations can be made online through their website.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Educational and delicious experience, high-quality cheeses, and intimate setting.
- Cons: Limited seating, so advance booking is essential.
2. Food Tour with Eating Europe
Overview: Eating Europe offers guided food tours that take you through various neighborhoods in Amsterdam, sampling local delicacies and learning about the city’s culinary history.
Services and Tips:
- Service: Tours are led by enthusiastic local guides who share fascinating stories and insider tips.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the tours involve a fair amount of walking.
- Location and Access: Various starting points depending on the tour; check the website for details.
- Booking: Tours can be booked online, with several options to choose from based on your interests.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Diverse food sampling, knowledgeable guides, and a great way to explore different parts of the city.
- Cons: Tours run on a schedule, so flexibility is limited.
3. A Visit to Foodhallen
Location: Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT Amsterdam, Netherlands
Overview: Foodhallen is an indoor food market housed in a converted tram depot, offering a wide range of international food stalls and bars.
Services and Tips:
- Service: Self-service with a variety of food stalls offering everything from sushi to burgers to Dutch specialties.
- Tips: Go with friends to share and sample a variety of dishes.
- Location and Access: Located in the Oud-West district, accessible by tram or bike (nearest tram stop: Bilderdijkstraat).
- Booking: No reservations needed; seating is first-come, first-served.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Wide variety of food options, lively atmosphere, and great for groups.
- Cons: Can be crowded, especially on weekends and evenings.
4. A Culinary Workshop at La Cuisine Amsterdam
Location: Various locations; check website for details
Overview: La Cuisine Amsterdam offers an immersive culinary experience where participants can discover the art of cooking traditional Dutch cuisine and international dishes in a hands-on environment led by seasoned chefs.
Signature Dishes:
- Stroopwafels: Learn to make these famous Dutch syrup waffles from scratch, mastering the delicate balance of crispiness and chewiness.
- Bitterballen: Dive into the process of creating these savory Dutch meat-based snacks, perfecting the crunchy exterior and creamy interior.
Services and Tips:
- Service: Classes are interactive and engaging, providing all necessary ingredients and equipment.
- Tips: Due to popularity, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot.
- Location and Access: Classes are held at various picturesque locations in Amsterdam, revealed upon booking.
- Booking: Secure your reservation conveniently through their website.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Educational and enjoyable, suitable for participants of all skill levels, and a chance to take home a unique culinary skill.
- Cons: While on the pricier side, the experience and knowledge gained make it worthwhile.
Exploring the local food and restaurants in Amsterdam is a journey that goes beyond mere sustenance—it’s an immersion into the city’s culture, history, and community. From traditional Dutch breakfasts and innovative farm-to-table lunches to the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine, Amsterdam offers a diverse and dynamic culinary landscape. Whether you’re indulging in a cheese tasting, embarking on a guided food tour, or participating in a cooking workshop, each experience adds a new layer to your understanding and appreciation of this vibrant city. I hope this detailed guide helps you navigate Amsterdam’s food scene and inspires you to embark on your own culinary adventures. Enjoy your travels and bon appétit!