October 2023
Amsterdam has been on our list of cities to see in Europe. We were hearing about how crowded it is during the peak summer travel season so we decided to wait for the off-season to visit. Even with cooler weather and off-and-on rain, Amsterdam didn't disappoint. It's still a little crowded (I can't imagine what summer is like) but very manageable. The Architecture, Canals, Countryside, and Food exceeded our expectations of this fantastic destination.
The City has grown up from its reputation for debauchery with legalized Cannabis "CoffeeHouses" and prostitution in the Red Light District. Some still travel here specifically for these attractions, but the vast majority are here to enjoy everything else Amsterdam has to offer. The City has done a great job controlling these legalized attractions, making the City feel vibrant, not seedy. Yes, you can smell Cannabis throughout the City and see nearly naked women on display in the windows of the Red Light district. Still, once you get beyond the novelty, you realize how these play into the tolerance and diversity that makes Amsterdam great.
We decided for this trip to avoid the usual Museums and instead focus our time getting to know Amsterdam by wandering through its districts, canal streets, and nearby countryside, discovering its fantastic architecture, shops, street markets, and the incredible diversity of the food here. The City was clean, and it felt safe to walk day and night.
I have included our Itinerary and more information about the area at the end of this post.
We stayed at the Tivoli Doelen, one of Amsterdam's oldest hotels, recently renovated and very charming. A great location in the Amsterdam center between the Kloveniersburgwal Canal on one side and the River Amstel on the other provided great views from our room.
A little fog one morning ...
Street-level views as we wandered through the streets of the Jordaan district, De 9 Straatjes (Nine Little Streets), The Red Light district, De Wallen, Oud-West, De PIJP, and I'm sure many more that we didn't know the names of.
Some were hip and quirky, others very Bohemian, everything from eclectic boutiques, vintage clothing stores, modern shopping, charming restaurants and cafés and cozy bookstores. The PIJP district's narrow streets are lined with Middle Eastern eateries, old-school pubs, and cafes with sidewalk terraces. Take in Dutch specialties at the Albert Cuypmarkt, like herrings and waffles.
Canal views as we walked through the Canal districts
We took two different Canal Cruises, one during the day and one at night. A few images from the water level.
Basilica of Saint Nicholas
The Amsterdam Central Train Station is spectacular in both Architecture and operation. Our train experience was great: easy maneuvering, clean, and efficient. The station itself is vast and constantly very busy, with crowds entering and departing by the hundreds all day long.
DAM square is the central main square of the canal district. It's where they dammed the Amstel River to control the water and fill the canals. The Amstel Dam is where the name Amsterdam was derived. Here, you will find the Royal Palace, plenty of shopping, and incredible architecture.
The Bloemenmarkt, Founded in 1862, is a famous floating flower market with stands connected to houseboats.
We were in Amsterdam around Halloween, so throughout the week, we saw signs of Halloween spirit throughout the City.
Bikes are EVERYWHERE in Amsterdam! We didn't use them during this trip, but they are a great way to get around, and the locals embrace them as the main transportation despite the weather. While walking in the City, you need to be very aware, staying off the Bike lanes and looking out not only for cars but for bikes, trollies, and trams. Some of them end up in the canal, requiring regular cleaning and removal that apparently brings up hundreds from the bottom. One pictured below looks like it was at the bottom for a while
Birds are not shy here. This one was walking the streets beside pedestrians, not afraid to approach you if you looked like you had some food to share
Amsterdam humor...Saw this in a small shop in the 9 streets district. A hilarious assembly of quotes/tweets/etc... turned "poetry." The store owner said it is one of his best-selling items, with over 2,000 sold!
We only used the Metro late in the trip. I highly recommend the Metro, train, Buses and trams to get around the City and the countryside. They are inexpensive, clean, and efficient. I don't know if this is a strategy of the transportation system, but we had this bird as a fellow passenger on board the Metro. As people got off, he would quickly move to where they were sitting to clean up (eat) any crumbs that were left behind. Brilliant!
A day trip by train to the small town of Zaanse Schans to see the historic Windmills. It is a bit touristy but provides a glimpse of traditional Dutch life with Windmills, wooden houses, and barns. There's cheese-making, coffee-grinding, clog-carving, and Jenever (Dutch Gin) tasting just for starters.
Modern-day windmills...
The Maritime Museum
Ran across a few rowdy Brits at a pub before the Aston Villa vs AZ Alkmaar match, apparently a big rivalry between Dutch and British teams. There was a lot of chanting and singing by British fans at the crowded pub and throughout the City even though the game was not here. The singing carried on through the night at neighborhood bars and from groups of fans roaming the streets as the Brits beat the Dutch 4-1.
Marken Island. Once an island fishing village now behind the dykes built to hold back the Sea water and rising tides to add land for farming to the region.
We found the food in Amsterdam to be outstanding! A broad diversity of restaurants with a heavy Asian influence due to the relationships developed by early explorers and spice traders.
Krua Thai Classic - Fantastic authentic Thai dishes with attentive, knowledgeable service and a warm dining room upstairs or downstairs
We didn't actually eat here; I just liked the name and sign.
Greenwoods - Wonderful neighborhood tavern with a fantastic gourmet comfort food menu. The cute outside terrace gives that real Amsterdam vibe where you feel like a local.
Wil Graanstra Friteshuis, No trip to Amsterdam is complete without fries, and Wil Graanstra’s legendary patatkraam (fries stall) is one of the city’s finest. The family-run operation has been on the square beside the Westerkerk since 1956. Graanstra fries fresh-cut potatoes to order, to be enjoyed simply with mayonnaise or ketchup. Go early. He usually sells out by mid-afternoon.
Sea Palace - A 3-story floating pagoda-style restaurant serving Cantonese, Sichuan & Beijing dishes. The Homemade Dim Sum and Classic Peking Duck are well worth the trip here. The characteristic Chinese architecture of Sea Palace has been a familiar sight in the Amsterdam city center for decades. This spectacular style also shows up in the eclectic atmosphere of the interior. You will, of course, choose our restaurant for the delicious dishes, but while you are there, enjoy the 'imperial' decor and the great view of Amsterdam. Check out the food robots, delivering food from the kitchen so the servers never have to leave the floor. It's pretty impressive!
De Visher located in Marken.
Oaxaca, A new restaurant, opened while we were in Amsterdam, featuring authentic upscale Mexican food. They did an excellent job capturing the flavors outside of Mexico (and California), growing many of the ingredients like corn and chilies that just aren't widely available here. The decor was nice (you can tell they have invested a lot of money here). The Mole, Iberian Pork tacos al Pastor, Elote, Chips, and guacamole were good. We always look for authentic Mexican flavors, which are hard to come by in Europe. This one hit the mark!
Winkel 43, in the Jewish quarter, is famous for Dutch apple pie. Be prepared to wait in line for a seat to enjoy the excellent pie.
Dropped into Il Panorama after our night canal cruise. Good pizza in a fun heart shape for the Ladies, Caesar salad, and warm drinks
Nomad aan het IJ (on the river) is a fine dining restaurant with great views to watch the ships go by. Prefix menu of 5 courses with the option to add wine pairing. While the view was great, the food was just okay, overpriced, and portions too large for a 5-course tasting menu. Dinner only, Closed Monday
Foodhallen is a bustling, trendy indoor food market with a variety of delicious, well-prepared international cuisines.
Albert Cuyp Markt in the de PIJP district. This street market is where to taste the real Amsterdam. You'll find fruit and vegetables, flowers, clothes, fresh herrings, and hot stroopwafels—a Dutch delicacy made with caramel-like syrup sandwiched between two thin waffles. In addition, you'll find excellent street foods like fried chicken, grilled Cheese, Pastel de Nata, and fantastic Lebanese food. Take a walk through the de PIJP after eating your way through the market. Mon-Sat.
Cheese is everywhere, and they are happy to share a taste with you. Pop into any cheese store or, preferably, a gourmet food market like Gastrovino for a sample of some Dutch classics.
Our favorite gourmet shop, Gastrovino, just down the street from our Hotel
Our Amsterdam Itinerary, October 2023
Day 1
Faro - Amsterdam (Schiphol)
Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam, Nieuwe Doelenstraat, 24 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 2
Walk the City near the Hotel along the Singel Canal through 9 streets and the red light district. Hop on a canal cruise.
Singel Canal: In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Singel Canal and discover hidden gems and boutique shops.
Canal boat ride (electric boat?), do one daytime and one evening to see the lights.
Lunch at Greenwoods
The Amstel: Water from the Amstel River flows through Amsterdam's famed canals. Bike alongside the river or opt for a boat tour.
Dinner at Krua Thai
Day 3
Zaanse Schans Windmills 8.2 mi - On the banks of the River Zaan, the little village of Zaanse Schans is a glimpse of traditional Dutch life as it was. Windmills, wooden houses, and barns make you feel like you're stepping back in time. There's cheese-making, coffee-grinding, clog-carving, and Jenever (Dutch Gin) tasting, just for starters - all linked by a towpath perfect for walking or cycling. Or see it from the water on board one of many scenic ferry rides. Getting there: The nearest train station to Zaanse Schans is Koog-Zaandijk, which takes around half an hour from Amsterdam Central Station. Zaanse Schans village is a 10-15min walk from the station. Regional trains depart every 15 minutes.
Dinner at Sea Place
Day 4
Bloemenmarkt, Founded in 1862, Bloemenmarkt is a famous floating flower market where you can find bulbs, single flowers, or entire bouquets from flower stands connected to houseboats and Dutch souvenirs. 6min
Van Stapele Koekmakerij (Cookie shop) 5min
The Jordaan district;
Negen Straatjes/De 9 Straatjes(Nine Little Streets), Soak up the atmosphere at this hip and quirky shopping quarter. A quaint, picturesque canal-district area featuring vintage & designer boutiques, plus cozy cafes. Foot. You'll find eclectic boutiques, charming restaurants and cafés, and cozy bookstores.
Wil Graanstra Friteshuis: No trip to Amsterdam is complete without fries, and Wil Graanstra's legendary patatkraam (fries stall) is one of the City's finest. The family-run operation has been on the square beside the Westerkerk since 1956. Graanstra fries fresh-cut potatoes to order, to be enjoyed simply with mayonnaise or ketchup. Go early. He usually sells out by mid-afternoon.
Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food market, and enjoy a variety of delicious international cuisines.
Royal Palace Amsterdam: Walk in the footsteps of the Dutch royal family as you tour the halls and rooms of the Royal Palace, which is open to visitors most times of the year. 9min
Amsterdam Duck Store, Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman created giant floating sculptures of rubber ducks that have become famous around the world. Bring home a cute rubber duck to remind you of your time in Amsterdam. 8min
Winkel 43, in the Jewish quarter, is famous for its Dutch apple pie.
Walk the red light district during the daytime. 20min
Dinner @ Nomad Restaurant
Day 5
Albert Cuyp Markt in the de PIJP district. This street market is where to taste the real Amsterdam. You'll find fruit and vegetables, flowers, clothes, fresh herrings, and hot stroopwafels—a Dutch delicacy made with caramel-like syrup sandwiched between two thin waffles. In addition, you'll find excellent street foods like fried chicken, grilled Cheese, Pastel de Nata, and fantastic Lebanese food. Take a walk through the de PIJP after eating your way through the market. Mon-Sat. 23min
PIJP district. Bohemian De Pijp's narrow streets are lined with Middle Eastern eateries, old-school pubs, and cafes with sidewalk terraces. Gregarious stallholders at Albert Cuypmarkt sell Dutch specialties like herrings and waffles. In a former brewery, the multimedia Heineken Experience chronicles beer-making history and offers tastings. Also in the area, Sarphatipark features English-style gardens with ponds and meadows. 6min
Dappermarkt, You'll find everything from leather accessories to delicious street food at this colorful outdoor market, open Monday through Saturday. 32min
Evening Canal cruise
Dinner at Il Panorama
Day 6
Open
Lunch at Winkel 43
Dinner at Oaxaca
Day 7
Marken, Old Fishing Village 11.4mi, take the Metro to Amsterdam Noord, then board bus 315 to Marken. You can take a ferry boat from Marken to Volendam near Edam.
Lunch at de Visscher
Day 8
Den Burgh Restaurant Farm turned fine dining 8.4 mi, mon-fri, lunch, and dinner, near the airport.
Amsterdam (Schiphol) to Faro
Things to do
Check cruise ship schedule for high traffic days
Check a local blog called Your Little Black Book, which specializes in great eateries in Amsterdam https://www.yourlittleblackbook.me/en/cityguide/amsterdam/
Day Trips
Zaanse Schans Windmills 8.2 mi
Marken, Old Fishing Village 11.4mi
Hoorn, a former Dutch East India Company base in the province of North Holland. It lies on the IJsselmeer, a lake north of Amsterdam. Shops and cafes dot its 17th-century town center, which is anchored by the Roode Steen, the main square. The harbor features the Hoofdtoren, a 16th-century tower. Museums include the Westfries Museum, displaying paintings of the Westfrisian Golden Age.
Volendam, is a great old fishing village that is a popular spot for many travelers from Amsterdam who come out for the day to see the traditional wooden Dutch houses, Many of local people still wear traditional clothing to work, Explore Volendam Museum, The Eel Sound Museum located in an old smoke house, Observe Fishing Boats typical of the ones used in the area, Enjoy the Fish Auction and Reformed Church
Edam, Wander along canals straight out of a storybook in this captivating city located only 15 miles north of Amsterdam. Don’t leave without sampling the town’s most famous product, cheese covered in red or yellow wax. 12.1
The Hague
Rotterdam
Antwerp
Delft, Known for blue porcelain
Schokland
Haarlem, St Bravo Church where Mozart played, impressive pipe organ in the church-Amateur day Oct 28, lively market on saturdays, De Overkant for the best sandwiches in the city, De Friethoes for the best fries and sauce, Bitterbalen at Jopenkerk for craft beer brewery in a hip old church. 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam
Scheveningen, beach
Enkhuizen
Kinderdijk - if you want to see traditional Dutch windmills in the original setting, UNESCO site with 19 windmills dating 16th to 18th century. Picture perfect scenery. Train to Rotterdam then waterbus to Kinderdijk
Activities/Sites
Canal boat ride (electric boat?), do one daytime and one evening to see the lights
Rijksmeusuem, This Dutch national museum celebrates Amsterdam's rich history and vibrant art. Although it’s particularly well known for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings by Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer, there are plenty of other fine art pieces worth seeing.
Anne Frank House
Concertebouer, Concert hall built in the 1800’s
Van Gogh Museum Dedicated entirely to the Netherlands’ most famous painter, Vincent Van Gogh, this museum houses many of his masterpieces, including “Self-Portrait” and “Sunflowers,” as well as a collection of rare French fin-de-siècle prints.
Royal Palace Amsterdam Walk in the footsteps of the Dutch royal family as you tour the halls and rooms of the Royal Palace, which is open to visitors most times of the year.
Amsterdam Duck Store, Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman created giant floating sculptures of rubber ducks that have become famous around the world. Bring home a cute rubber duck to remind you of your time in Amsterdam.
Negen Straatjes/De 9 Straatjes(Nine Little Streets), Soak up the atmosphere at this hip and quirky shopping quarter, Quaint, picturesque canal-district area featuring vintage & designer boutiques, plus cozy cafes. foot. You’ll find eclectic boutiques, charming restaurants and cafés and cozy bookstores.
Singel Canal, In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Singel Canal and discover hidden gems and boutique shops.
PIJP district. Bohemian De Pijp's narrow streets are lined with Middle Eastern eateries, old-school pubs and cafes with sidewalk terraces. Gregarious stallholders at Albert Cuypmarkt sell Dutch specialties like herrings and waffles. In a former brewery, the multimedia Heineken Experience chronicles beer-making history and offers tastings. Also in the area, Sarphatipark features English-style gardens with ponds and meadows.
The Amstel: Water from the Amstel River flows through Amsterdam’s famed canals. Bike alongside the river or opt for a boat tour. In some parts, you’ll find locals swimming.
Bimhuis most popular jazz hall
Walk the red light district daytime
Markets
Dappermarkt, You’ll find everything from leather accessories to delicious street food at this colourful outdoor market, open Monday through Saturday.
Noordermarkt, a popular local farmer’s market, a lively spot where you can find organic cheese, bread, fish, honey, fruit, and flowers, as well as antiques, jewelry, paintings and more.
Bloemenmarkt, Founded in 1862, Bloemenmarkt is a famous floating flower market where you can find bulbs, single flowers, or entire bouquets from flower stands connected to houseboats and Dutch souvenirs.
Albert Cuyp Markt, Albert Cuyp Markt in the de PIJP district. This street market is where to taste the real Amsterdam. You’ll find fruit and vegetables, flowers, clothes, fresh herrings, and hot stroopwafels—a Dutch delicacy made with caramel-like syrup sandwiched between two thin waffles. In addition you'll fine excellent street foods like the fried chicken, grilled cheese, Pastel de Nata, and fantastic Lebanese food. Take a walk through the de PIJP after eating your way through the market. Mon-Sat. 23min
Restaurants
Winkel 43, Jewish quarter famous for Dutch apple pie
Greenwoods - Wonderful neighborhood tavern with a fantastic gourmet comfort food menu. The cute outside terrace gives that real Amsterdam vibe where you feel like a local.
Wil Graanstra Friteshuis, No trip to Amsterdam is complete without fries, and Wil Graanstra’s legendary patatkraam (fries stall) is one of the city’s finest. The family-run operation has been on the square beside the Westerkerk since 1956. Graanstra fries fresh-cut potatoes to order, to be enjoyed simply with mayonnaise or ketchup. Go early. He usually sells out by mid-afternoon.
Sea Palace - A 3-story floating pagoda-style restaurant serving Cantonese, Sichuan & Beijing dishes. The Homemade Dim Sum and Classic Peking Duck are well worth the trip here. The characteristic Chinese architecture of Sea Palace has been a familiar sight in the Amsterdam city center for decades. This spectacular style also shows up in the eclectic atmosphere in the interior. You will of course choose our restaurant for the delicious dishes, but while you are there, enjoy the 'imperial' decor and the great view of Amsterdam.
Krua Thai Classic - Fantastic authentic Thai dishes with attentive knowledgeable service and a warm dining room upstairs or downstairs
Oaxaca, A new restaurant opened while were were in Amsterdam, featuring authentic upscale Mexican food. They did a really nice job in capturing the flavors outside of Mexico (and California), growing many of the ingredients like corn and chilies that just aren't widely available here. The decor was nice (you can tell they have invested a lot of money here) The Mole, Iberian Pork tacos al Pastor, Elote and Chips & Guacamole were really good. Were always on the lookout for authentic Mexican flavors which are hard to come by in Europe, this one hit the mark!
A-Fusion, bib gourmand, immediately captivates diners with its vibrant atmosphere. On the menu is an appealingly exotic blend of Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Korean flavours. On entering, you will see sushi being made to order, and as you head further in you will notice the barbecue and the dim sum and wok kitchen. Thanks to the reasonably priced à la carte menu and small portions, you can try everything. The depth of flavour of the minced pork dumplings, the spice and umami of the XO sauce, the ultra-fresh salmon topping the nigiri... This is one of Amsterdam's best Asian restaurants!
Domenica, bib gourmand, is the place to come to experience the bustling Jordaan neighbourhood. Whether you are dining outside on the terrace or inside at the bar of this modern bistro, there is always a lively atmosphere here. Authentic Italian seasonal dishes are served up with great skill and a proper sense of generosity. Think octopus with crispy skin and tender meat served alongside robust bell pepper and broccoletti. Owner Flavio pays tribute to his heritage with every vibrant plate. Be sure to check out his French and Italian wine selections too.
Fa. Pekelhaaring, bib gourmand, Welcome to the urban canteen of a number of Amsterdam’s local residents – a relaxed eatery without unnecessary sophistication, but one which is both authentic and welcoming. The cuisine is influenced (but not exclusively) by Italy and the chef enjoys adding his own variations and personal touches (such as crunchy textures and local influences) to his cooking. The varied à la carte is impressive indeed!
Lazuur, bib gourmand, This charming neighbourhood restaurant proposes a refined fusion of French and Portuguese cuisine. The appealing set menu offers a choice of dishes including, for example, kale, bouchot mussels and molho de coentro. The chef cooks his ingredients to perfection and adds a dash of Mediterranean flair, as demonstrated in his soft-cooked pulpo, creamy riso venere and espuma of paprika. Be sure to check out the impressive port collection, which contains plenty of surprises.
Nomad aan het IJ (on the river), fine dining restaurant with great views to watch the ships go by. Pre-fix menu of 5 courses with the option to add wine pairing. While the view was great, the food was just okay, overpriced and portions too large for a 5 course tasting menu. Dinner only, Closed Monday
Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food market, and enjoy a variety of delicious international cuisines.
Den Burgh Restaurant “Fine dining in a stylishly renovated monumental farmhouse with international allure”.mon-fri, lunch and dinner, near the airport. The space felt much more modern than expected, very little "farmhouse" if any, the menu was limited, and the food was just okay. Not sure it was worth the journey
Traditional Foods
Bitterballen - In Amsterdam, crispy meatballs called Bitterballen are the go-to snack at bars around the city. Since most travelers visit at least one bar in Amsterdam, eating Bitterballen is almost inevitable when visiting the DAM. But, you may be wondering, what are Bitterballen? The Bitterballen recipe is fairly straightforward and can be completed in a few steps. First, Dutch chefs slow cook meat and refrigerate the resulting stew until it solidifies. They then form the meat mixture into little balls, bread them and fry them to crispy perfection. Eaters get the better end of the stick, or in this case ball. Plan to eat Bitterballen with your fingers, dipping each round nugget into spicy mustard before popping it into your mouth. Just be careful not to burn your tongue. Where to Eat Bitterballen in Amsterdam Bars like Eetcafé Rosereijn
Pannenkoeken (Pancakes) - We rarely forget to add Stroop when we eat Pannekoeken in Amsterdam. This Dutch pancake at Eetcafé Roserjin was no exception. Unlike their fluffy American cousins, Dutch pancakes called Pannekoeken are flat, savory and fill the plate. Locals eat Pannekoeken at all times of the day, often topping the starchy base with cured meat or smoked salmon. However, some Amsterdammers prefer to add fruit or chocolate to create a sweet dessert pancake. You’ll find Pannekoeken on the menu at local eateries like Eetcafé Roserein as well as at more touristic spots like Pancakes Amsterdam. If you’re short on time and keen on trying Pannekoeken, you can even take a River Cruise with an all-you-can-eat Pannekoeken bar. Add powdered sugar and Stroop to your Pannekoek. Thicker than maple syrup with a consistency more similar to caramel, Stroop adds a sticky sweetness that completes the Pannekoek eating experience. Where to Eat Pannekoeken in Amsterdam Eetcafé Rosereijn and Pancakes Amsterdam
Broodje Haring (Herring Sandwich) - Sushi-like herring tastes best between bread in Amsterdam. We ate this fishy sandwich at Noordermarkt on a sunny Saturday morning. If Bitterballen is the most popular bar food in Amsterdam, then pickled herring sandwiches win the prize when it comes to street food. Locals stop at fish stands called haringhandel to order herring sandwiches called broodjes haring all year long but especially in the summer when it’s herring season. Order your broodje haring with pickles and onions. If you don’t like bread, you can eat chunks of herring with toothpicks. If you don’t like herring, then order smoked eel. Whatever you order, don’t forget the pickles and onions. Where to Eat a Herring Sandwich in Amsterdam Fish stands like Stubbe’s Haring all over the city as well as Noordermarkt on Saturdays
Stroopwafels - Shoppers queue for Stroopwaffels at the Albert Cuyp Market. This one was worth our wait. Stroopwafels take the cookie concept to the next level by filling two thin wafers with sweet Stroop, the same caramel-like syrup that goes well with Pannekoeken. Originally invented in Gouda but perfected in Amsterdam, Stroopwafels are best eaten hot off the griddle. Be sure to pair your hot Stroopwafel with hot coffee or tea. Not only is this the traditional way to eat Sroopwafels, but it’s also the best way. You’ll know what we mean once the steam from your drink hits the Stroopwafel. The reaction is magical. Where to Eat Stroopwafels in Amsterdam Original Stroopwafels at Albert Cuyp Market
Poffertjes (Mini Pancakes) - Tiny pancakes called Poffertjes are a market favorite in Amsterdam. Sweeter than Pannenkoeken thanks to generous amounts of powdered sugar and butter, miniature pancakes called Poffertjes are a popular snack available at stands around Amsterdam. Dutch cooks prepare Poffertjes batter with buckwheat flour before frying the petite treats to crispy goodness. You can add toppings like Nutella and syrup to your Poffertjes if you’re so inclined. Keep in mind that most locals stick to powdered sugar and butter, but it’s up to you. Where to Eat Poffertjes in Amsterdam Poffertjes Albert Cuyp at Albert Cuyp Market
Stamppot (Mash Pot) - Stamppot is like mashed potatoes on steroids but in a good way. We ate this bowl at Carstens Brasserie. True confession: We never heard of Stamppot (mash pot) until we visited Amsterdam. Always game to sample new food, we gave Stamppot a try. We loved the mashed-up mix of vegetables, potatoes and butter. Dutch cooks traditionally add kale or swiss chard, but more modern renditions include other greens like tarragon. You can eat Stamppot as a comforting side dish or pair it with sausage for a complete Dutch dinner. Though it may be a challenge, try to save room for dessert. Where to Eat Stampott in Amsterdam Moeders Restaurant for traditional Stampott and Carstens Brasserie for a more modern Stampott option
Rijsttafel (Rice Table) - Our Rijsttafel dinner at Restaurant Blauw was filled with tiny plates and big flavors. With a history that dates back to the 17th century when the Dutch colonized Indonesia, Rijsttafel is a veritable rice feast that spans the gamut of Indonesian cuisine. A Rijsttafel meal involves a colorful parade of little plates that fill the table first and the belly later. In fact, the Dutch word Rijsttafel translates to ‘rice table’. Enlist as many friends as you can so that you can try dozens of dishes. Expect flavors to hit all notes from sweet to spicy in a feast filled with meat, fish or vegetables. Just don’t expect to eat Rijsttafel everywhere in Indonesia. The 20th-century incarnation is decidedly Dutch. Where to Eat Rijsttafel in Amsterdam Restaurant Blauw and Sama Sebo
Kaas (Dutch Cheese) - Sampling different types and ages of Dutch cheese at an Amsterdam market allows food travelers to find their favorite. We sampled these at Noordermarkt. Although Holland is famous for Gouda and Edam, both made with cow’s milk, Dutch dairy farmers produce enough cheese products to fill a cheese plate and then some. Amsterdam cheese shops sell these cheeses and more, though true cheeseheads will want to take a day trip outside Amsterdam to experience a cheese market that dates back to the middle ages. Start your Dutch cheese exploration with the mass-produced classics – Gouda and Edam. You can attend a cheese tasting to explore different flavors by sampling different ages from four weeks to a year or two. You can then move on to lesser-known varieties like Maasdammer, Boerenkaas and Schapenkaas. You’ll get extra points if you can pronounce the Dutch cheese names correctly on the first try. Where to Eat Dutch Cheese in Amsterdam Cheese shops around the city as well as Noordermarkt on Saturdays
Brunch - Amsterdam restaurants like Gartine take brunch seriously. We approve of the concept in general and this plate at Gartine in particular. No longer relegated to Sundays, brunch occurs on a daily basis in Amsterdam. Local restaurants serve pancakes (both Dutch and American style) as well as eggs, omelets and more exotic fare like avocado bowls and dim sum dumplings. And the best part? You don’t have to wake up early since some of the best Amsterdam brunch spots serve brunch all day long. Plan to eat brunch before or between sightseeing expeditions. The food and coffee will fuel you up for a day of cultural exploration. Where to Eat Brunch in Amsterdam Gartine, Little Collins and Dignita
Dim Sum - Chinese food fans won’t want to miss dim sum in Amsterdam. We ate this basket of tasty dumplings at Sea Palace. Although the distance from Amsterdam to Hong Kong exceeds 5,700 miles, dim sum is a popular cuisine in Amsterdam. More than a dozen local restaurants serve the fun style of Cantonese cuisine known for steamed dumplings and other savory treats. You can eat dim sum in the center of Amsterdam, outside the ring, at the Foodhallen or within a restaurant the looks like a floating pagoda. Grab your chopsticks, order a pot of jasmine tea and get ready to chow down on dim sum in Amsterdam. Where to Eat Dim Sum in Amsterdam Sea Palace, Oriental City and One Dim Sum
Patat Friet (Fried Potatoes) - In Amsterdam, Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx serves cones filled with fried potatoes. We topped this cone with mayonnaise as is the local custom. Fried potatoes are popular around the world from french fries in New York to chips in London to pomme frites in Paris. This popularity has not escaped Amsterdam where locals eat cones of patat friet topped with mayonnaise and other saucy toppings made with ingredients like ketchup, curry and peanuts. Plan to eat patat friet as an afternoon snack or after a night at the bars. Pick your toppings while you wait in an inevitable queue. Don’t worry – your cone of crispy fried potatoes will be worth the wait. Where to Eat Fried Potatoes in Amsterdam Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx and Manneken Pis
Appeltaart (Apple Pie) - The slice of apple pie at Winkel 43 was worth every calorie and then some. Leave your impression of apple pie at home when you visit the Netherlands. Available in restaurants and cafes through Amsterdam, the appeltaart is notable for its crunchy crust and a chunky apple filling flavored with spices like cinnamon cardamom and nutmeg. You’ll want to eat an iconic appeltaart at Winkel 43, the Amsterdam institution located on the bank of the Westerstraat canal. Be sure to order a slice with a dollop of whipped cream for the full Amsterdam apple pie experience. Where to Eat Apple Pie in Amsterdam Winkel 43
Jenever - Amsterdammers have been drinking Jenever since the 16th century. Originally prescribed for medicinal purposes, Jenever is now a popular juniper-flavored spirit similar to Gin. Locals drink Jenever at bars as well as at distillers like the House of Bols. Go to a traditional Amsterdam tasting room to drink Jenever. Cross your hands behind your back and bend over to take the first sip. After the first sip, whether you hold the glass is up to you. Where to Drink Jenever in Amsterdam De Drie Fleschjes and Wynand Focknink
Beer - As cool as it is to drink Genever in Amsterdam, sometimes beer is the better beverage option. Famous for commodity beers like Heineken and Amstel, Amsterdam has joined the craft beer scene with a vengeance and now has a multitude of worthy drinking establishments for those times. Sure, you can spend a couple hours on a Heineken experience but why not spend that same time at Brouwerji ‘t IJ drinking craft beer inside a repurposed windmill. You can continue your beer-drinking escapades at Foeders and Craft & Draft – both bars serve a wide selection of Dutch and Belgian brews. Where to Drink Beer in Amsterdam Brouwerij ‘t IJ, Foeders and Craft & Draft