A Food Lover’s Guide: 7 Essential Tips for Dining in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to cozy canal-side cafés and bustling street food markets. The city’s culinary scene reflects its diverse and multicultural atmosphere, with traditional Dutch dishes sitting alongside international cuisines. Whether you’re here for classic Dutch pancakes, fresh seafood, or a taste of Indonesian rijsttafel, knowing a few dining tips can enhance your experience. Here’s what you need to know before you sit down for a meal in Amsterdam.

1. Try Dutch Specialties

Amsterdam’s food scene isn’t just about international flavors—it’s home to some must-try Dutch specialties that visitors shouldn’t miss. From crispy bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) to fresh herring, traditional Dutch food is hearty and unique.

Tip: If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without trying a warm stroopwafel—a thin waffle cookie filled with gooey caramel. For a full Dutch experience, visit a local pannenkoeken house for delicious pancakes, which can be served sweet or savory.

2. Reserve a Table in Advance

Amsterdam is home to several highly-rated restaurants, and many of them book up quickly, especially on weekends. Even smaller, casual spots can get crowded due to limited seating.

Tip: If you have a specific restaurant in mind, it’s best to make a reservation a few days in advance. Many restaurants allow online bookings through their website or platforms like TheFork.

3. Tipping Culture

Tipping in Amsterdam is different from countries like the U.S., where gratuity is expected at a higher percentage. In the Netherlands, service charges are often included in the bill, but small tips are still appreciated.

Tip: Rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for excellent service is customary, but not obligatory. For casual cafés and bars, simply rounding up to the nearest euro is considered polite.

4. Dining Hours May Differ from Your Home Country

While Amsterdam has plenty of late-night bars and cafés, Dutch dining hours can be earlier than what some visitors are used to. Many restaurants open for dinner around 5:30 PM and may close their kitchens by 10:00 PM.

Tip: If you prefer a late dinner, check the restaurant’s closing time in advance. Alternatively, many pubs and casual eateries serve snacks and smaller plates throughout the night.

5. Tap Water is Safe to Drink

One of the most common questions travelers have is whether it’s safe to drink the tap water in Amsterdam. Fortunately, the answer is yes—Dutch tap water is among the cleanest and safest in the world.

Tip: Instead of purchasing bottled water, feel free to ask for tap water in restaurants. However, some places may charge for it or prefer to serve bottled water, so don’t be surprised if you receive a menu with paid water options.

6. Explore the Street Food Scene

For a quick and delicious bite, Amsterdam’s street food scene offers plenty of local favorites. From crispy fries loaded with mayo (patat met) to fresh kibbeling (fried fish), you’ll find tasty snacks at food stalls, markets, and even vending machines like FEBO.

Tip: Try raw herring with onions and pickles from a street vendor—it’s a classic Dutch snack that locals swear by. If you’re hesitant, ask for it served on bread for a milder experience.

7. Be Mindful of Coffee Shop vs. Café

In Amsterdam, the term “coffee shop” doesn’t mean a place for a simple espresso—it refers to establishments that legally sell cannabis. If you’re looking for a traditional café for coffee and pastries, search for a koffiehuis or café instead.

Tip: If you walk into a coffee shop expecting a cappuccino, you may be in for a surprise. When in doubt, check the menu or look for a regular café nearby.

Conclusion

Dining in Amsterdam is an experience filled with unique flavors, cultural traditions, and exciting culinary discoveries. Whether you’re indulging in Dutch classics, exploring international cuisines, or enjoying a cozy meal by the canals, these tips will help you make the most of your foodie adventure. With safe drinking water, a relaxed tipping culture, and plenty of delicious street food, you’re sure to enjoy every bite the city has to offer. Eet smakelijk! (Enjoy your meal!)