Want to find the best Amsterdam restaurants and bars? This list has everything you need to find the best meals!
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If you’re visiting Amsterdam, there are a few things you definitely need to eat! Whether you love sweet or savory, cocktails or coffee, this list has enough meals to feed you well for a few days in Amsterdam.
I’ve already shared my favorite things to do and see in Amsterdam, so let’s move onto the meals!
What to Order in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a big enough city that you can find almost anything you want to eat. But here are some of the Dutch classics to look for!
Dutch pancakes are a treat! Poffertjes look like mini fluffy pancake bites. Classically, you get them with just a few toppings (butter, syrup, maybe strawberries) but you can also go big and get the works! They’re bites of pillowy goodness that you’ll inhale in 2 minutes!
On the savory end of things, Dutch food leans hearty and cozy, perfect for colder weather. Stamppot is a sort of mashed potato dish with carrots, onion, turnips, or other veggies mixed in. It’s often paired with sausages or meatballs as a winter dinner, and you can find it on the menu in most Amsterdam restaurants.
For a bar snack or appetizer, try bitterballen: a sort of meatball that’s breaded and fried. Perfect alongside a beer.
We can’t not mention cheese, because the Dutch are very proud of their cheese. Gouda is named after the Dutch town it originated in, and you have to try a bit while you’re here!
If you’ve never tried it, definitely get a slice of appeltaart! It’s a taller pie with a thicker, more crumbly crust than the American version. It’s so delicious that you’ll fight over the last bite if you share.
Another great sweet treat is the stroopwaffel, which is a super thin cookie with a layer of sweet filling, similar to caramel.
The Best Amsterdam Restaurants
Cafe Sonnevald
Cafe Sonnevald was a rec from a local, and it ended up being my favorite Dutch meal! The crowded restaurant was packed full of locals enjoying dinner with friends, and it was clear that most of the tables were regulars. It’s the kind of place where you ask the waiter what to order and you’ll love every bite.
De Luwte
De Luwte has a cozy, romantic feel without being much more expensive than more casual sit-down restaurants in town. Its menu is international, with a definite lean towards Italian dishes. It also offered a few lighter dishes, meaning I loved my poke bowl while my husband got a steak, so no one had to compromise!
The Pantry
Of all Amsterdam restaurants, this is where to go for homestyle Dutch food at its finest!! The Pantry is consistently ranked high as one of the best places in the city. Not sure what to order? They offer some set menus that get you 3 courses for a good price!
Aneka Rasa
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without Indonesian food! This is because the Dutch colonized Indonesia. So now there’s a huge Indonesian population in The Netherlands.
Don’t be put off by the fact that Aneka Rasa is in the middle of the tourist part of town. It was recommended to me by a local who grew up in Amsterdam and he said this is where he goes anytime he wants Indonesian. When you go, order the rijsttafel! It’s small portions of all their specialties, so you get to try a bit of everything. Each dish was delicious, and I loved not having to choose!
Breakfast in Amsterdam
De Carrousel
De Carrousel is famous for its pancakes! Built inside an old carousel, eating here feels cute and festive. Make sure to order the classic Dutch pancakes, poffertjes!
They also have large pancakes that are thin, more like crepes. Don’t be afraid of the savory versions: we tried one with eggs, cheese, and bacon topped with syrup and it was delicious!!
Greenwoods
Greenwoods is a great breakfast option. Their menu hits the sweet spot of brunch decadence along with plenty of plant-based or lighter options, meaning everyone will be happy! Greenwoods is open through mid-afternoon, meaning brunch can start as late as you want. They have two locations, so check both to see what’s closer to that day’s agenda.
Amsterdam Bars
Tales & Spirits
Tales & Spirits is a great cocktail bar. It feels a little like a local pub, but with beautifully crafted drinks. It’s the kind of place where the drinks sound so creative, you want to try them all! If you’re coming with a group, call ahead – they fill up and don’t seat you until the whole party has arrived.
Papeniland Pub
The Papeniland Pub could equally fall under cafe, restaurant, or bar. The feel is cozy and comfortable, like someone’s neighborhood haunt. They serve food, but the real star is their apple pie! Come in after dinner one night for a slice and a nightcap.
Winkel 43
If you ranked the best apple pie in the city, Winkel 43 often comes out first! It’s especially popular late at night as they stay open to catch the after-the-bars crowd. It’s delicious, but know there’s often a line, especially late!
Want more ideas for restaurants? My map-friendly version of this guide on the Thatch app as even more Amsterdam restaurant options!
