Where to Eat in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Travel Guide to the City’s Best Food Spots
The Food of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is full of world-class museums, cozy canals, and unforgettable food experiences scattered across neighborhoods large and small. From Asian cuisine and Dutch classics to unexpected hidden gems near major attractions, this guide covers every restaurant, café, and food stop from our trip—with detailed recommendations to help you eat well between adventures. Luckily for travelers to Amsterdam, good food is easy to find throughout the city.
Dutch Classics to Try in Amsterdam
Even though we didn’t eat Dutch food daily, some classics are worth a try:
– Bitterballen
– Gouda cheese
– Stroopwafels
– Dutch pancakes
– Pickled herring
Wynand Fockink Proeflokaal and Spirits
Stop by here to “take a bow” when you try Jenever, the Dutch juniper berry liquor. Tradition dictates that the when they fill the small, tulip shaped glass completely to the brim, you bend towards the bar to sip the liquor down to a reasonable level for transport. You can then take it to a small patio outside and enjoy sipping one of the many flavors they have to offer. They say if you like Gin, you will like its predecessor, Jenever.
Sagra Food & Wine — Best Takeaway Sandwiches Near ARTIS & the Holocaust Museum
Located near ARTIS & the National Holocaust Museum, Sagra Food & Wine is a small shop offering salads, sandwiches, and takeaway bites. We grabbed sandwiches here before settling into a small outdoor plaza beside one of the ARTIS Zoo’s bird enclosures—an unexpectedly quiet oasis where anyone can sit and enjoy a casual meal.
Ethiopian Restaurant Attempt + Nearby Sushi Spot (Walk-In Tips)
We planned to try an Ethiopian restaurant that smelled incredible but couldn’t get a table without a reservation. Lesson learned: book ahead! Instead, we enjoyed a nearby sushi restaurant, proving that spontaneity can still taste delicious in Amsterdam.
Samo Sebo — Traditional Malaysian Comfort Near Museumplein
A warm and flavorful stop between museum visits, Samo Sebo offers traditional Malaysian food served family-style. Each dish—vegetables, noodles, rice, meats—comes in small bowls on a warming tray, making it perfect for sharing.
The Seafood Bar (Amsterdam Central) — Best Calamari of the Trip
Located near Amsterdam Central, The Seafood Bar is spacious and modern, offering fresh catches displayed on ice. The calamari was declared “the best ever” by our travel group. It’s ideal for a relaxed seafood dinner with space to linger.
Brasserie De Luwte — Elegant Candlelit Dining Near the Anne Frank House
Brasserie De Luwte, near the Anne Frank House, serves dishes like duck and lobster sushi rolls under candlelight. The mismatched place settings, craft cocktails, and charming decor make it one of Amsterdam’s most inviting dinner spots.
Vatten Ramen — Cozy, Tightly Packed, and Delicious
Vatten Ramen is small and bustling, with tightly packed tables and steaming bowls of ramen that hit the spot. Perfect for a casual, soul-warming dinner in the city center.
New King Mandarin Cuisine — Spacious Chinese Dining in Chinatown
In contrast to Amsterdam’s many small eateries, New King Mandarin Cuisine in Chinatown offers plenty of seating, friendly staff, and flavorful Mandarin and Cantonese dishes. Great for groups and anyone craving Chinese comfort food.
Espressobar Puccini — Canal-Side Breakfast & Coffee
Espressobar Puccini is ideal for breakfast and jet-lag recovery. Sit outside by the canal, sip a flat white, and enjoy scrambled eggs with herbs. Simple, delicious, and rejuvenating.
The Pancake Company Amsterdam — Variety of Dutch Pancakes & Crêpes
A cozy café along a canal and street market serving savory crêpes, waffle-style pancakes, and small traditional Dutch poffertjes. Our favorites were the waffle-style pancakes and savory crêpes.
Albert Heijn — Essential Stop for Snacks, Produce & Budget Food
Amsterdam’s Albert Heijn supermarkets are great for on-the-go travelers. Stock up on cheese, fruit, charcuterie, and drinks. Pro tip: you’ll need to scan your receipt barcode to exit the store—typical of European supermarkets.
Markthal – Rotterdam
If you make it to Rotterdam, the Markthal is a sight to behold. The U-shaped building not only includes residences, but they are built around a bustling food hall with all kinds of cuisine.
