Amsterdam Eats: 3 Foods You Can’t Miss

I got the chance to visit Amsterdam a few years ago and like any trip I take, I looked up what food places I should try while I'm there. I was sadden/disappointed to see that I was expected to thrive on pickled herring and mayo on fries, so I dove a little deeper and found some yummy options that got me excited and they did not disappoint. Here are three dishes I recommend you try while in Amsterdam.

Surinamese Cuisine: A Flavorful Blend of Cultures

Amsterdam is home to a vibrant Surinamese community, many of whom migrated after Suriname gained independence from the Netherlands in 1975. Surinamese cuisine reflects a mix of African, Indian, and Indonesian influences, a legacy of the country’s history under Dutch colonization. The result? Bold, comforting dishes with layers of flavor.

During my trip, I tried some unforgettable dishes:

• Roti: Curried chicken or vegetables wrapped in soft flatbread. Warm, hearty, and full of spice.

• Bami: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and protein, seasoned with Surinamese spices for a rich, flavorful twist.

• Peanut Soup: A Surinamese take on African peanut soup...creamy, nutty, and aromatic, packed with bold flavor.

Eating Surinamese dishes in Amsterdam isn’t just delicious, it’s a taste of a vibrant culture shaped by migration, history, and resilience.

Poffertjes: Mini Pancake Bliss

If you have a sweet tooth and happen to be a Pancake slut like me, you can’t leave Amsterdam without trying poffertjes: tiny, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and topped with butter (or Nutella, whipped cream, or fruit). Warm, pillowy, and perfect for a market stroll.

Stroopwafels: The Ultimate Sweet Snack

And then there are stroopwafels..yes, a fresh, more delicious version than the one you get on Delta flights. Picture thin waffle layers with gooey caramel in between. Grab one fresh from a street vendor and place it over a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect melty treat.

Bites Worth Traveling For

Amsterdam is more than raw herring and fries (thank God). From the bold, comforting flavors of Surinamese cuisine to the sweet joy of poffertjes and stroopwafels, the city offers dishes that tell stories, excite your taste buds, and make every bite feel like a little adventure. Follow your cravings, skip the clichés, and savor the city...you won’t regret it.

Ready to book your trip to Amsterdam and not sure where to start? Schedule a travel consultation with me today using the link below and let's bring your travel vision into a reality.

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