There is so much more Amsterdam’s food scene than french fries and beer. I didn’t anticipate such a variety of options, but I was thoroughly impressed. Here are 6 must-visit feateries to include in your Amsterdam itinerary!

Foodhallen 

The Foodhallen is a must visit when in Amsterdam- whether you are traveling solo or in a group,  the Foodhallen provides variety and convenience as it is open 12pm – midnight. Some things to note before your visit: there is a restroom in the food hall, seating can be difficult as there are not many tables, and most vendors accept cards. There is a little gelato shop, La La Ijs, outside the Foodhallen that was a great sweet treat!

Tacos from Taqueria Lima

The tacos were a little pricey for the portion but still delicous!

Renato’s for pizza.

The pizza was good and the portion was filling. The pizza tasted better than it looked.

De Ballenbar Bitterballen

These Bitterballen’s are fried dough balls filled with cheese and meat. They were quite good, and a local favorite, but a little too fried for me. Overall the Foodhallen was a great experience for dinner and the variety of options is a plus.

French Fries at Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx

There is often a line but don’t let that intimidate you. If you can come at off-peak hours that will provide the best experience as it does get rather crowded. I visited around 11:00 am on weekday and it wasn’t busy, the line moved quickly, and it was card only. There are many sauces to choose from, some even gluten free and vegan, to give a wide variety.

The fries are presented in a little cup with a paper stick as your utensil. I asked for light sauce as they will drench the fries in sauce- if you like that, don’t say anything! 

Kessens

Kessens is one of my all-time favorite breakfast spots. Located in Jordaan, Kessens is a charming cafe serving breakfast/brunch. I ordered the avocado toast and it was delicious. My brother ordered the omelet and said it was the best omelet he has ever had as it was incredibly fluffy and light.

Be sure to order the hot chocolate and with fresh cream- our waitress whisked the cream together by hand! The hot chocolate was served with a little cookie bites, similar to a Madeleine cookie.  

Biscuiterie Van Stapele for Van Steeple Cookies 

These cookies are famous for a reason and worth standing in the line for. Get there early as the line does form quickly! A dark chocolate dough with a white chocolate filling, these cookies are a chocolate-lover’s dream. I didn’t grab a photo but these were amazing!

Bagel and Beans

Their menu is quite extensive with bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and more. Sitting inside looking out on the canal with my bagel and orange juice was straight out of a movie. The bagel was delicious and satisfying. The cafe is situated alongside the canal and inside a charming, old Dutch row home.

The location we went to was: Keizersgracht 504, 1017 EJ Amsterdam, Netherlands. Staff was friendly, reasonably priced, and the portions were filling. 

Rudi’s Original Stroopwafel

While there are so many places to try Stroopwafel, the most amazing Stroopwafel is at Rudi’s Original Stroopwafel at the Albert Cuyp Market. We tried a few others but nothing compared to this one. The Stroopwafel is cooked right in front of you and it comes out piping hot.

The inside is a warm, gooey, caramel- like filling made of brown butter, cinnamon, and Dutch molasses syrup. The filling is sandwiched between two wafer “cookies” that are, on their own, neutral in flavor. When paired with the buttery filling, it is magic.

The Stroopwafel wasn’t overly sweet but sweet enough where it felt like a treat. The two men working the stand that day were hilarious and told stories while making the Stroopwafel- did you know the name translates to syrup waffle?

Beer and Barrels

This restaurant is located about a 15 minute train ride outside Amsterdam in the charming city of Utretch. Situated inside a barrel, hence the name Beer and Barrels, this provides one of the most unique dining experiences. I ordered the smoked brisket burger and it was delicious, one of the best burgers I have had. The flavor was incredible, the brisket was perfectly cooked, and the portion was excellent. I saw another table order the nachos and they looked incredible.

Beers & Barrels – Utrecht Veilinghaven is the location I recommend as it is situated near the canal which provides for a lovely dining experience, especially in the warm evenings.