6 Best Eats in Amsterdam

Whether it is your first visit to Amsterdam or your fifteenth, there are many foods (both traditional and modern) that you should add to your list. Although it's nearly impossible to list all of the best eats in this city, we’ve listed six you should make time for on your upcoming European travels.

Bitterballen

A trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without Bitterballen. These meat-stew-filled fried croquette balls are a must-eat Dutch food. I had these multiple times during my visit and preferred them with a side of mustard to dip them into for some extra flavor.

Golden Baka Ribs 

You can’t leave Amsterdam without trying the Golden Baka Ribs from Mondi at The College Hotel. Although ribs aren’t traditionally Dutch, this serving is a unique (and tasty) find that can be enjoyed during the restaurant’s Caribbean nights. Topped with edible gold leaf, these ribs are served in a wooden chest filled with dry ice into which your server will pour some water along the perimeter to create a smoked effect. 

Stroopwaffels gstorf)

Stroopwafels are a Dutch staple and can be found within every couple of blocks when in the heart of the city, especially within the Jordaan and Centraal Station areas. These sweet treats are traditionally comprised of caramel syrup sandwiched between two thin waffle pieces. Although you can purchase packaged Stroopwaffels from many stores and eateries around the city, I recommend getting yours fresh from a local bakery such as Hans Egstorf, also known as Amsterdam’s oldest bakery. Many times, you can see this sweet treat made right in front of you which is an engaging experience. 

Poffertjes

Poffertjes are miniature cakes traditionally served with sugar and butter. The serving size of these pancake-like sweets varies depending on the establishment. However, orders of between 10 and 20 are most common. If you head to a specialty bakery,  including Van Schaik in The Hague area of the Netherlands, you may be able to decorate your mini treats with some chocolate. 

Mondi Dushi

Mondi Dushi is a unique dessert found at Mondi Skybar 747 at the Corendon Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Hotel. Although its eye-catching chocolate dome that melts underneath its sweet drizzle is tasty, it’s the variety of desserts including brownies, strawberries, blueberries, cake, and ice cream found inside that are the highlight. It’s designed to be shared between two or three people and calls for an Instgrammable moment.

Fries 

I know you might be thinking that fries aren’t special enough to be added to this list. However, that’s only because you haven’t tried the ones from Fabel Friet. Although the line was only five minutes on the day I visited, I quickly discovered why Jordaan’s Fabel Friet has gained social media traction (and long lines) in recent months. This eatery offers a limited menu with a couple of options and fries as its specialty (hence the name). I’d recommend adding truffle mayonnaise and parmesan to the top of your fries for a more savory snack.