Where to Eat and Drink in Amsterdam
- Sarah Sutton
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Amsterdam is often overlooked as a great food city, but it has some incredible spots that go far beyond the usual tourist fare. From traditional Dutch pancakes to legendary apple pie, these are some of the best places to eat and drink in the city.
This is hands down my favorite spot in Amsterdam. De Carrousel, built around an old carousel, serves up some of the most unique Dutch pancakes, and their savory cheese and bacon pancake is one of my favorite dishes in the world. The ingredients are cooked into the pancake itself, then folded like a crêpe for the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and salty flavors.
Tucked into a charming corner of Noordermarkt, Winkel 43 is famous for what many swear is the best apple pie in Amsterdam. You’ll probably have to wait for a table, but the pie is absolutely worth it.
A late-night Amsterdam institution, FEBO is the perfect spot for a late-night bite. The chain is known for its self-serve vending machines filled with crispy croquettes, burgers, and other deep-fried Dutch snacks. It's fast food, but with a unique Amsterdam twist.
Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Centrum, this cozy, traditional Dutch café is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We ducked in on a rainy afternoon and ended up there for hours, sampling an incredible spread of cheeses and meats recommended by our waiter. It was so good, it became dinner. Paired with a few beers, it was exactly what we didn’t know we needed.
Right in the heart of the Red Light District, Café Old Sailor is one of the area’s more laid-back, less R-rated spots. This lively pub is perfect for grabbing a cold beer and people-watching, with plenty of friendly tourists and locals to strike up a conversation with. The nautical-themed decor adds to its charm, making it a fun, easygoing place to soak in the city's energy without the, well… extra distractions.
Smack in the middle of Spui, Hoppe is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most beloved bars, pouring drinks since 1670. Whether you’re sipping a beer in the standing-only outdoor area or cozying up inside, this historic spot is a must for a classic Dutch drinking experience. You’ll know it’s a locals’ bar the moment you walk in and find yourself suddenly looking up at everyone. Even if you’re typically considered tall, here, you’ll feel comically short. With the tallest population in the world packed inside and out, you’ll have to weave through a forest of long legs just to reach the bar—but trust me, it’s worth it.
For beer lovers, the Heineken Experience is a fun way to dive into the history of one of the world’s most famous breweries. The tour is interactive and ends with a fresh pint, making it a great stop for anyone looking to enjoy a bit of Dutch beer culture.