10 Best Amsterdam Street Food Dishes (+ Top Food Markets)
Looking to try new local foods while exploring my favorite city: Amsterdam?
Then this post is for you!
Trying Amsterdam street food is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to experience the city and taste new Dutch and international flavors. There are so many dishes to try in Amsterdam– from bitterballen to stroopwafels, and just about everything in between!
Let’s dive into my list of the best street foods you should try during your next visit, and which markets you should be looking for while in Amsterdam!
My Top 3 favorite street foods to try:
✔ Poffertjes- Little pancake balls (with toppings!)
✔ Stroopwafel – cookies with caramel in between)
✔ Oliebollen- Dutch doughnuts
Best Amsterdam Street Food Dishes
While Dutch cuisine might not be the most famous in the world, there are certainly some hidden gems amongst their dishes, especially when it comes to street food. Here are 7 dishes you have to try while in Amsterdam!
1. Stroopwafel
The most well-known street food in Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands is definitely the stroopwafel. It would be impossible not to include it in this post, so put it on your Amsterdam bucket list!
You can find them in souvenir shops and even grocery stores throughout Amsterdam (if you’re looking for some to take home!), but there’s nothing better than a fresh warm stroopwafel from a street food market.
If you aren’t familiar, they’re thin waffles with warm caramel-like syrup in between two layers. They’re incredible – I could eat them all day long.
Oh and by the way, it’s pronounced “stroap-wahh-ful”, if you say “stroop” like “troops”, the locals kind of look at you like “huh?”!
⭐ Local Tip: Many people rave about Van Wonderen Stroopwafels (they’re the ones you see all over Tiktok). After trying both, I can confirm that street market stroopwafels are infinitely better! So, skip the long line at Van Wonderen and find a local making them fresh!
2. Poffertjes
A close second to stroopwafels are poffertjes. Poffertjes are known around the world as “Dutch pancakes,”
They are small, fluffy pancakes that come with lots of different toppings. Pancakes in general are pretty popular in Amsterdam- there are a ton of pannekoeken huis (pancake houses) throughout the city.
Safe to say, I am eating these as many times as I can every time I’m in Amsterdam. They are, honestly, my favorite.
Between this and stroopwafels, your sweet tooth will be leaving Amsterdam happy, that’s for sure.
3. Pickled Herring
Hear me out…pickled herring belongs on this list. And it’s actually not all that bad!
It took me forever before I finally gave in and tried pickled herring. But, I’m here to tell you not to make the same mistake I did.
Spoiler alert: I actually enjoyed it. Pickled herring is a typical thing to see as far as Dutch street food goes.
Often, this pickled fish is served on a roll with pickled cucumbers, onions, and mustard. My favorite place to grab some is at Frens Haringhandel!
4. Oliebollen
Pretty similar to donut holes, you definitely want to try some Oliebollen during your street food journeys.
In Dutch culture, they’re typically filled with raisins (currants) and topped with powdered sugar. Often, you can also find oliebollen made with apples inside- yum!
These are to die for if you can get them warm out of the fryer! Definitely add them to your must-try-list!
⭐Psst: I always stop at the Oliebollen stall in the middle of Leidseplein! They make the best oliebollen, and you should not miss it!
5. Frites
I’m sorry…if there’s a winner on this list, it’s frites.
Never pass up the frites in Amsterdam. They’re technically originally from Belgium, but the Dutch have made fritjes their own.
You’ll find so many vendors around the city selling paper cones filled to the brim with fresh fries. Try your hand at one of the many varieties of sauces that are on offer with frites, or try them topped with Dutch mayonnaise or fritessaus (Fry sauce) like the Dutch do.
6. Appelflap
An appelflap can be found in most European bakeries, but no one does it like Amsterdam. After all, they are a Dutch creation!
Appelflaps are triangular puff pastries stuffed with baked apple, cinnamon, currants and sometimes almond paste.
They melt in your mouth, and if you get one freshly made while it’s still hot, it’s even better. 10/10!
7. Rookworst
Just like in Germany, the Dutch love their sausages! Rookworst is a kind of smoked sausage that is usually shaped like a horseshoe.
You can either just get the sausage or you can get it in a bun as a hot dog. I prefer the latter, and it’s one of the nicest hot dogs I have ever had.
8. Bitterballen
Bitterballen are, as the name hints at, balls. But not just any balls-fried meatballs.
They are crispy, savory balls filled with ragout, cheese, and mushrooms (and whatever else you can possibly think of).
For instance, I often get mine stuffed with cheese and dip them in local mustard- yum!
I’ll be honest…bitterballen get a bad wrap. I think they’re actually pretty good!
And, while they’re not likely to be your absolute favorite street food dish in Amsterdam, they’re one of those dishes that just please everyone enough to make you think “yeah, this was nice.”
9. Kibbeling
Kibbeling is somewhat similar to Fish and Chips in the UK – just without the chips.
It’s battered fish chunks, usually eaten with garlic sauce or tartar sauce. The good bit is, it can be eaten as a snack or as a main meal, and there are lots of great street food markets in Amsterdam that serve it.
10. Stamppot
Saving not quite the best til last, but the most “normal,” Stamppot is the most “everyday” kind of street food you can get in Amsterdam.
What I mean by this is: locals aren’t eating stroopwafels every day (even though I totally would if I lived there). But stamppot is a very common meal for families living in the Netherlands. It is just so quintessentially Dutch
It consists of mashed potatoes and kale with chopped sausages on top. It tastes better than it sounds, I promise!
Best Amsterdam Street Food Markets
One of the top reasons I love Amsterdam is because it is jam-packed with incredible markets, many of which have street food options in one form or another.
I am a foodie and market girlie at heart, after all.
Whether you’re looking to try some authentic Dutch desserts or have your eye on a spicy Indian daal, you’re bound to find a delicious meal while meandering through the markets across the city.
Here are the top nine street food markets that I’d recommend you set off in search of while you’re in Amsterdam:
Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market has existed for over 100 years in Amsterdam, opening every single day and selling just about everything!
It has become the biggest day market in all of Europe, so it would be a shame not to take a shopping trip, even if it’s just for a bite to eat. You definitely want to swing by this market, even if you only have 1 day in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam’s Latin Quarter, where Albert Cuyp Market is located, is home to a wealth of nationalities, bringing plenty of inspiration to the food on offer from spicy noodle dishes to huge pizza slices.
Some of the best traditional Dutch sweet treats can also be found here such as stroopwafels and poffertjes.
The market is open every day of the week, except for Sundays, selling goods and food between 9:30 AM-5:00 PM. However, individual stalls may open at slightly different times depending on demand.
The Rijksmuseum and Museumplein are within a 15-minute walk, making it easy to combine a morning of market browsing with an afternoon exploring Amsterdam’s iconic museums.
Foodhallen
Foodhallen is one of my favorite places to eat in Amsterdam. It’s one of the most well-known and lively food markets in Amsterdam and is very popular with both tourists and locals.
Located in a historic tram depot in the Oud-West neighborhood, Foodhallen is just a stone’s throw away from the city center and close to top attractions like the Anne Frank House.
This street food market is another spot where you’ll be able to test out some fabulous international dishes, with everything from sushi to Mexican tacos and plenty of classic Dutch traditions thrown in.
One of the best stops at Foodhallen is The Butcher ,which has become renowned for its delicious gourmet burgers. My favorite pick at Foodhallen, though, goes to either the De Ballenbar, known for unique bitterballen, or Renato’s, an amazing pizza joint serving up true Italian pies.
Open for lunch, dinner and well into the night, Foodhallen is perfect for a relaxed meal or a snack-and-drink session.
It has an amazing, laid-back ambiance, and many vendors also serve craft beers and cocktails to complement their dishes, making it the perfect place to wind down with friends.
Noordermarkt
Noordermarkt is my favorite market in Amsterdam, by far. If you visit one market, visit this one!
Noordermarkt has a far more relaxed feel than Foodhallen and Albert Cuyp, allowing you to explore charming stalls in the open air and peruse a range of fresh produce, trendy clothes, and vintage pieces.
It is particularly popular on Saturdays, when the organic farmer’s market joins the regular stalls, bringing all sorts of food options.
Here, you’ll be able to find a wonderful mix of fresh Dutch produce, artisanal cheeses (that you can get vacuum-wrapped to take home!), homemade pastries, and food stalls serving everything from freshly shucked oysters to warm stroopwafels – yum!
There is much less of a focus on international cuisine in Noodermarkt, so if you’re set on trying or cooking with locally sourced ingredients and traditional foods, then this should definitely stand out on the list.
Open on Saturdays for food lovers and Mondays for vintage enthusiasts, Noordermarkt is a go-to for both lunch and snacks.
Dappermarkt
Dappermarkt is one of Amsterdam’s most diverse markets, situated in the multicultural Oost district. With over 200 stalls, it is known for its affordable prices and flavorful international street food.
Turkish gözleme, Moroccan pastries, and Surinamese sandwiches are among the most popular options. But, freshly fried kibbeling (battered fish pieces) also goes down a treat with visitors – a must try in my opinion!
Open Monday to Saturday, Dappermarkt is ideal for a midday snack or lunch on the go, and it’s close to the Tropenmuseum, making it a great spot to explore some amazing flavors before or after a museum visit.
Rollende Keukens
Whether or not you can visit Rollende Keukens will depend on the time of year that you visit Amsterdam, as it only graces the city for a few days in the spring, typically in May.
Rollende Kitchens translates to “Rolling Kitchens” – so you might be able to guess what type of street food market this is…
Every year, over 100 food trucks find their way to the Westergas region of the city, turning it into a jaw-dropping open-air culinary festival, celebrating flavors from all around the world.
Visitors can sample pretty much any cuisine that their heart desires, with trucks providing everything from American-style barbecue and Spanish paella to creative Asian fusion dishes.
The wood-fired pizza is said to be to die for!
With live music, open-air movie screenings, and a relaxed, festive atmosphere, Rollende Keukens is a lively spot to enjoy lunch, dinner, or just a series of tasty snacks – but you’ll have to hope that luck is on your side and that the event dates fall within your trip!
Ten Katemarkt
Ten Katemarkt is nestled within Amsterdam’s Oud-West district on the Kinkerstraat, making it hard to resist if you find yourself touring Amsterdam’s shopping quarter. Ten Katemarkt is a lively neighborhood market known for its diverse street food offerings and local charm.
Here, you can taste-test some Dutch favorites like freshly-made stroopwafels, poffertjes, and kibbeling, alongside international options like Moroccan flatbreads and Turkish döner kebabs.
Open Monday through Saturday, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike looking for a quick, affordable bite.
Ten Katemarkt is a great spot for a casual lunch or snack while exploring the area; with De Hallen’s shops and cinema close by, it’s easy to turn a food stop into a full day of exploration.
It is also right next to Foodhallen, almost making it an extension of the indoor market, so if you can’t find a bite to eat at the Ten Katemarkt, you know where to go!
Zuidermrkt
Zuidermmrkt is located in Amsterdam’s Oud-Zuid neighborhood and is likely one of the smallest markets on this list, the running of which is assisted by a team of neighborhood volunteers.
The market is focused on providing fresh, locally sourced ingredients, specializing in farm-to-table products.
Vendors offer everything from seasonal vegetables, fresh cheeses, and homemade breads to honey, olive oil, and organic meats.
You’ll also find delicious ready-to-eat options, like gourmet sandwiches, fresh juices, and pastries, perfect for a leisurely lunch.
With its relaxed, community-focused vibe, Zuidermrkt is ideal for enjoying fresh food in a friendly setting, and it’s just a short walk from the famous Albert Cuyp Market, making it easy to explore both on a Saturday outing.
If you’re staying in a self-catering apartment or have a kitchen in your hostel, then you should definitely venture to Zuidermrkt to get your ingredients, inspiring you to test new recipes and try out some of the freshest produce in the city.
Waterlooplein Market
Waterlooplein is the oldest flea market in all of Amsterdam, and it’s quite large! Home to around 300 stalls, you’ll find antiques, books, souvenirs, jewelry, and best of all, some amazing street food stalls and trucks.
Whether you’re set on hunting out some bargain vinyl or are just having a good look, there’s no better way to explore the Waterlooplein market than with a portion of Belgian fries in your hand or Lebanese falafel bites.
You never know just quite what you’ll find! The last time I was there, I was sorting through vintage leather jackets for ages!
Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 to 17:00, you have all day to explore the stalls of the largest flea market in Amsterdam and taste some delicious snacks.
The market is located close to the Rembrandt House Museum and the Jewish Historical Museum, which are some fabulous attractions should you want to round off your shopping and food sampling trip to Waterlooplein with some culture and history.
Nieuwmarkt
Nieuwmarkt is located in one of the busiest spots of the city for tourists, right by the Red Light District, and is one of the liveliest markets in all of Amsterdam.
This is another daily market that sells just about anything you can think of, but similar to the Noordermarkt, it is also joined by an organic fare market on Saturdays, where you can shop for fresh ingredients and produce.
You may not find the biggest offering of street food at this market, but its location makes it easy to dip into a fabulous local café or restaurant where you can try some delightful Dutch dishes or sweet treats.
Amsterdam’s Chinatown is also not a far walk, giving you access to some of the best Asian dishes in the city from family-run restaurants, from Pad Thai to beef Malaysian curries.
FAQS: Best Amsterdam Street Food
What is Amsterdam Street Food?
Amsterdam street food includes quick bites like stroopwafels, raw herring, kibbeling (fried fish), and poffertjes (mini pancakes), easily found at markets and food stalls across the city.
What is the Famous Food of Amsterdam?
Stroopwafels are among Amsterdam’s most iconic foods, along with bitterballen and poffertjes. These Dutch classics are beloved by locals and offer an authentic taste of the city.
What is the Most Famous Food Market in Amsterdam?
Albert Cuyp Market in the De Pijp neighborhood is Amsterdam’s most famous market – and the biggest in all of Europe! Albert Cuyp offers a variety of Dutch street foods, fresh produce, and international cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Where are the Best Areas for Food in Amsterdam?
De Pijp, Jordaan, and Oud-West are the top Amsterdam neighborhoods for food. They offer a mix of street food, trendy cafes, and fabulous food markets like Albert Cuyp Market and Foodhallen.
Wrapping Up: Street Food Markets in Amsterdam
Street food in Amsterdam is pretty easy to track down, with markets all over the city center. But food isn’t the only attraction.
You’ll find the best street food spots dotted within flea and antique markets, allowing you to combine your taste-testing experience with a spot of souvenir shopping.
And you don’t have to stick to the authentic Dutch dishes, as street food across Amsterdam is heavily influenced by the multicultural neighborhoods that surround the markets, giving you access to some incredible international cuisine.
That being said, the street food dishes such as stroopwafels, poffertjes, and even stamppot are all must-try foods when visiting the city.
Be sure to check out Foodhallen if you’re a diehard foodie – but otherwise, test out a number of these markets between your attraction visits as you’ll often find some great and affordable street food on offer for your lunch.
