Amsterdam Food Tour, Amsterdam

Amsterdam Food Tour (Self Guided), Amsterdam

Amsterdam's food scene is a delightful fusion of local traditions and global influences. Making your way through the interlocking canals, pretty bridges, and a maze of streets laden with diverse eateries and bars may easily render you hankering for a bite to eat and/or a drink to wash it down with.

The diverse culinary landscape of Amsterdam caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether it's raw herring or an infinite range of beers on tap, or some unique local dessert after a traditional belly-filling Dutch meal, you're going to find all this and more in Amsterdam – no problem!

One of the central locations to explore delicious Dutch cuisine is Dam Square, a bustling hub in the heart of the city. Here, you can find a variety of food stalls and restaurants offering traditional Dutch treats and international fare.

For those looking to savor authentic Dutch flavors, Haring & Zo is a must-visit. This spot specializes in herring, a local delicacy, and offers a taste of this fish in various forms. If you have a sweet tooth, Puccini Bomboni is the place to go. They craft exquisite chocolates and pralines that will satisfy your cravings.

Beer enthusiasts will appreciate Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a cozy pub that showcases an extensive selection of Dutch craft beers. If you're in the mood for pancakes, Pancake Bakery serves up both sweet and savory options in a charming setting.

Winkel 43 is renowned for its delectable apple pie, a quintessential Dutch dessert. Cafe Chris offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy a traditional Dutch lunch or dinner. And for a taste of homestyle cooking, Moeders Restaurant serves hearty Dutch dishes reminiscent of a home-cooked meal.

Missing the opportunity to experience firsthand the culinary delights of Amsterdam would be a terrible shame! So, embark on this self-guided adventure now and savor the rich flavors of Amsterdam's gastronomy. You'll be treated to an experience like no other!
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Amsterdam Food Tour Map

Guide Name: Amsterdam Food Tour
Guide Location: Netherlands » Amsterdam (See other walking tours in Amsterdam)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Author: clare
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Dam Square
  • Haring & Zo (Herring & More)
  • Puccini Bomboni
  • Proeflokaal Arendsnest
  • Pancake Bakery
  • Winkel 43
  • Cafe Chris
  • Moeders Restaurant
1
Dam Square

1) Dam Square (must see)

Dam Square, or the Dam, is a central town square in Amsterdam, known for its significant buildings and frequent events. Positioned in the historical heart of Amsterdam, it sits on the site of the original dam on the Amstel River. The square extends some 200 meters from west to east and 100 meters from north to south, connecting Damrak and Rokin streets that trace the Amstel's original course.

The square is also the termination point for other notable streets like New Dike, Calf Street, and Dam Street, with the main red-light district, De Wallen, just beyond its northeast corner. Prominent features on Dam Square include the neoclassical Royal Palace, the 15th-century Gothic New Church, the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and the National Monument which honors World War II victims, all of which collectively turn the Dam into a major tourist hub.

The name "Amsterdam" originates from a dam built on the Amstel River around 1270. This dam, integral to the city's development, included a discharge sluice and later locks to facilitate navigation and control water levels. By 1275, the settlement was significant enough to be recorded in connection with a road toll granted by the count of Holland, Floris V. Over time, the dam expanded to accommodate a town square, now known as Dam Square. Eventually, the area became a hub for commercial and governmental activities, featuring a large fish market and a town hall.

Significant changes occurred over the centuries, including the demolition of a weigh house in 1808 to clear the view for Louis Bonaparte’s Royal Palace and the infilling of Damrak Avenue in the 19th century. The square also hosted the Beurs van Zocher stock exchange until 1903. Today, the De Bijenkorf department store has been in its place since 1914. Dam Square has also been a site for national events – such as the National Memorial Day commemorations at the National Monument unveiled in 1956, and public demonstrations, – maintaining its status as a national and cultural gathering spot for the Dutch.

Tip:
For those in need of a restroom, free and well-maintained toilets are available at the De Bijenkorf shop on the 5th floor.
2
Haring & Zo (Herring & More)

2) Haring & Zo (Herring & More)

When you're kicking it in Amsterdam, raw herring is a must-have delicacy, and this haringhuis ("herring house", i.e. takeaway fish shop) in the city center probably serves up the finest you can find. They take this fish seriously. Meticulously prepared, it has a great, buttery, rich taste, and really pairs well with the onions and pickles.

If you think this is anything like the average pickled herring sold in jars at grocery stores, you are absolutely wrong. This fish gets the royal treatment. First, they soak it in salty water in big vats, then they freeze it for a solid couple of days before they clean it up and get it ready for you. So, it's super fresh and not all stinky "fishy" like you might expect, and it's got a nice, firm texture.

But wait, there's more! This place isn't just about herring. They also dish out some salmon, eel, and something called "Hollandse garnalen", which are tiny shrimp that are unique to the Dutch. You won't find shrimp like this anywhere else.
3
Puccini Bomboni

3) Puccini Bomboni

Amsterdam's renowned chocolatier Puccini Bomboni specializes in crafting artisanal bonbons infused with a delightful array of flavors, ranging from lavender and drambuie to vanilla poppyseed and marzipan currant with a hint of black pepper. As you step inside their elegant shop, you'll be immediately greeted by the rich aroma of cocoa filling the air and the artfully arranged, oversized truffles, celebrated as some of the world's finest.

These delectable chocolates are crafted on-site and boast a preservative-free recipe. Each bonbon is meticulously prepared using sustainable chocolate—a buzzworthy commitment in today's world—and only the highest-quality natural ingredients. You can select an assortment of these exquisite bonbons, which can be elegantly packaged in a cellophane bag or a pretty purple box, making for a perfect gift, especially for chocolate enthusiasts.

Tip:
Ensure you purchase these chocolates shortly before your return journey, as they maintain their freshness for just 7 days. Of course, that's assuming you can resist the temptation to indulge in them yourself before gifting them!
4
Proeflokaal Arendsnest

4) Proeflokaal Arendsnest

In one of the most striking sections of Amsterdam's city center, this bar offers waiters who know their wares, great Dutch beers, and suitable snacks to take the edge off the alcohol. The beers are largely Belgian-style, so Belgian beer fans won't be disappointed, but there is also a fair number of interesting local craft beers that don't fit into any traditional style. And if you're into gin, they've got Dutch gins as well – just ask the friendly staff to recommend one that pairs perfectly with your beer.

If you want to sit outside, keep in mind that the outdoor seating area is rather small – probably 8 tables at most – but it is right by the canal (one of the prettiest in Amsterdam) and cozy. No warm blankets or heat lamps, though, so dress accordingly if you want to chill out there. Oh, and whatever you do, don't spend too long looking at the printed bottle list and the huge blackboard with the draught beers, or your head might start spinning!

Tip:
If you're up for a beer tasting, they set you up in a special room here, and you can book it for any day except Fridays and Saturdays, when it gets a bit busy.
5
Pancake Bakery

5) Pancake Bakery

Located in the atmospheric basement of an old canal house that used to belong to the Dutch East India Company, this spot serves up some fantastic outsize pancakes, both sweet and savory, with a mind-boggling, near-infinite range of fillings. The menu includes French, Greek, Hungarian, Mexican, Masai, Indonesian, and even Greenlandic pancakes!

And if you're into something smaller but just as tasty, they've got these fluffy, buttery puffs called "poffertjes", topped with all sorts of goodies like chocolate sauce, mandarin and honey, and more. The servings are big and will fill you up, but keep in mind that poffertjes are best enjoyed warm.

Now, here's the deal: this place is pretty popular with tourists, so sometimes you might find yourself waiting in line for a table. If you want to skip the lines and/or minimize your wait, aim for weekdays and go early in the morning. But on weekends and during the busy meal times (lunch and dinner), you are almost guaranteed to have to wait.
6
Winkel 43

6) Winkel 43

Winkel 43 is a favorite hangout in the heart of the Jordaan for a drink or a bite to eat. The "appeltaart" (apple pie) is particularly tasty here; many consider it to be the best in Amsterdam, but you be the judge! This delectable Dutch specialty, whose secret is in the moist, cakey dough that also manages to be crispy on the edges, is served in large portions and topped with a generous dollop of (not too sweet) house-made fresh cream if you'd like. And the perfect pairing? A steaming mug of fresh mint tea. You can savor all of this on their spacious patio overlooking the Prinsengracht canal – especially inviting on sunny days!

But hey, if you're not just in the mood for sweets, they've got you covered with tasty sandwiches, salads, soups, and something called "bitterballen" – all priced very reasonably for the quality. The bitterballen, in particular, is another long-time favorite with the Dutch, who just can't get enough of it. Similar to "appeltaarts", these (deep-fried) meatballs have a crispy coating but soft center, and some amazing creamy flavors inside. You've got to give them a try!

Tip:
The place is rather small, so you might have to line up (especially on Saturdays), or try to choose an off-peak time if you want to linger for longer. And if you're in a rush, you can totally enjoy your appeltaart right from the tray while standing up – it's a fun twist!
7
Cafe Chris

7) Cafe Chris

Café Chris proudly claims the title of Jordaan's (and Amsterdam's) oldest bar, having been around since 1624. When you step inside, it exudes an old-world charm and a sense of history without feeling uptight. You'll be greeted warmly by the friendly owner and bartender, and the atmosphere is incredibly homey and snug, inviting you to partake in authentic Dutch culture.

Don't hesitate to grab a seat right at the bar – it's actually the best seat in the house. In fact, most folks prefer to perch at the bar rather than taking a table, as both the bartender and the regulars love to strike up conversations, even with newcomers. The interior is quite compact, with soft lighting, wooden décor throughout, a pool table, and a comically tiny restroom – it's the quintessential "brown bar" experience.

While parched patrons won't have to endure a dry throat for long (there's a legend that even Rembrandt frequented this place), the food menu is intentionally concise. Nevertheless, it's highly recommended to nibble on some of the finest (and most reasonably priced) traditional "bitterballen", a meaty delight that always goes well with a cold beer.
8
Moeders Restaurant

8) Moeders Restaurant

Moeders is an authentic Dutch eatery nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, renowned for its warm and inviting ambiance and its dedication to honoring the role of mothers in Dutch society – hence the name "Moeders", which means Mothers in Dutch.

Inside Moeders, the walls are adorned with an extensive collection of photographs featuring mothers, grandmothers, and other cherished women, all contributed by the restaurant's patrons. Additionally, you'll find an array of sentimental keepsakes, including plates, teapots, and various kitchen utensils, that gives it that warm, homey feeling.

Moeders' menu boasts a delectable array of traditional Dutch fare, including mashed potatoes with veggies ("stamppot"), a hearty carrot and onion stew ("hutspot"), and succulent meatballs ("gehaktballen"). To wash it down, they've got Dutch beers and spirits, including the famous Dutch gin called "jenever".

One standout feature is the "mothers table," a generously sized communal dining area where guests can gather and share a meal with fellow diners. It's decked out with all kinds of vintage kitchen implements and nostalgic items, making it feel super cozy and inviting.

Moeders has been a go-to spot in Amsterdam since it opened back in 1990. People love it for its charming ambiance and yummy food that's all about traditional flavors. So, if you want to dive into Dutch cuisine and soak up some Netherlands culture, this is the spot.

Tip:
Make sure to book a table ahead of time before making the trek over there.

Walking Tours in Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Western Canal Belt Walking Tour

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Western Canal Belt is a historic neighborhood in Amsterdam that forms part of the larger Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which comprises a web of concentric canals. The three main canals making up the Western Belt are Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. They are lined with beautiful and somewhat bizarre gabled houses that were built by prosperous merchants in the 17th century,...  view more

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Amsterdam Introduction Walking Tour

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The Dutch capital, Amsterdam, some say, “dances to its own beat.” Indeed, Amsterdam – where “hipness meets history” – has a rather unusual life rhythm and style, famously manifested in the air of legalized cannabis, coffee shops, and the Red Light District. In large part, this “air of freedom” attracts annually to the city over five million visitors.

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.0 Km or 2.5 Miles
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The inner-most borough and historic heart of Amsterdam, known locally as Centrum, is a tightly woven network of canals and overlapping micro-neighborhoods, each bursting with their own unique vibe and history. Formerly a working-class area, this district is reputed for its traditional community spirit, radical politics and historic brown bars.

Here, all within an easy walking distance you will...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Red Light District Walking Tour

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Amsterdam's Rosse Buurt (Red Light District) has been the subject of much fascination for centuries. The medieval part of it, also the largest, known as De Wallen (or De Walletjes), is particularly famous for its fantastic juxtaposition of age-old architecture, leaning canal houses, narrow alleys lined with old-school bars, quaint shops and late-night pursuits. Of course, the main draw here...  view more

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Southern Canal Belt Walking Tour

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The Canal District, known as Grachtengordel in Dutch, is a globally renowned example of urban planning and architectural excellence within Amsterdam. This area has remained remarkably well-preserved for over four centuries, celebrated for its charming small bridges, canal crossings, and 17th-century residences. Encircling the Old City Centre in a horseshoe shape, the Canal Ring encompasses three...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

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The Jodenbuurt (Jewish Quarter) of Amsterdam had been the center of the Dutch Jewish community from the 16th century up until the Second World War. The neighborhood is best known as the birthplace of Baruch Spinoza, the home of Rembrandt, and the Jewish ghetto under the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.

Once crowded with open-air stalls, smoking factories and tenement buildings, the Old...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles

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