Travel for Food Hub The Food Blog for Travel Lovers
Last Updated on December 15, 2023
Amsterdam’s eclectic neighborhoods offer a foodie paradise to satisfy all your dining desires. From tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries to Michelin-starred cuisine, immerse your tastebuds in the diverse flavors of 10 distinct districts across this culinary capital.
Eating your way through Amsterdam offers a delicious exploration of both historical neighborhoods and modern dining hotspots. From cozy cafés to fine dining along the city’s scenic canals, here are the top 10 neighborhoods for dining in Amsterdam:
De Pijp
Known for its lively market and colorful row houses, De Pijp is one of Amsterdam’s trendiest and diverse neighborhoods. Restaurants like Bazar serve a fusion of Middle Eastern and North African dishes while classics like Café Zante focus on all-day casual dining. Don’t miss tasting Dutch fare at Bistro Bij Ons.
Canal Ring Cruise
For a truly unique Amsterdam experience, dine aboard on an Amsterdam canal cruise with a private electric boat (Tip: you can find many recommended cruise companies on this site: www.best-amsterdam-canal-cruise.com). As you cruise past 17th century gabled buildings along the storied canal ring, their captain serves an elaborate picnic feast with fine wines, cheeses and charcuterie to be enjoyed waterside as the sun sets. Take in scenic views of Amsterdam by canal as you savor gourmet flavors during this special dining experience.
De 9 Straatjes
These “nine little streets” host a concentrated area of boutique shops, galleries, cafés and eateries. Snack on poffertjes (tiny Dutch pancakes) at Café Papeneiland dating from 1642 or enjoy farm-to-table French fare at rustic brasserie Envy. Fans of fine baked goods line up at Bakery Van Stapele for their perfectly executed cookie and pie creations.
Jordaan
Once a working class neighborhood, the Jordaan still retains its quaint charm while now attracting foodies to hotspots like cozy Spanish tapas bar Bar Codorniu or Cafe de Prins with their seasonally inspired Dutch cuisine. Make sure to explore off the main drag for surprises like Tomatillo, a tiny Mexican eatery serving scrumptious mole and tacos.
Haarlemmerbuurt
Centered around Haarlemmerplein and straat, this charming neighborhood offers boutique-lined streets filled with creative, affordable eats. Seafood is king at the always bustling fish stand Stubbe’s Haring or opt for Dutch fusion fare at eatery Wolf Atelier. Grab an outdoor table to watch as you dine along peaceful canals.
Leidseplein
Bustling Leidseplein is the place for dining and entertainment. Upscale restaurants like restaurant Vinkeles intricately blend classic French ingredients into modern Dutch preparations. Or enjoy slick city views through the floor-to-ceiling windows over craft cocktails and Asian fusion small plates at top floor LouLou bar and restaurant.
Oud West
Amsterdam’s “Old West” features converted factories and warehouses now housing redeveloped residential lofts alongside hip hangouts. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas with craft brews at cozy boutique pizza joint De Pizza Bakkers or dine leisurely over share plates highlighting unique ingredients at Zuivere restaurant.
Plantage
Bordering the city’s famed Vondelpark, the Plantage neighborhood hosts classy 19th century architecture alongside the city’s Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Bring your appetite for seasonal cuisine to Ron’s Gastrobar housed in the historic Europahuis building or enjoy people watching over Indonesian fare served in the glasshouses of Greetje restaurant.
Westerpark
The once industrial Westergas fabriek complex now converted into a cultural park hosts regular markets, concerts and many dining options for casual hangs. Outdoor eatery FAT Dog serves an American spin on loaded hot dogs and burgers, best enjoyed on the spacious terrace. Or class things up with handmade pastas and fine Italian wines at the lively Zoccali Trattoria.
Noord
A quick ferry across the IJ River brings you to Amsterdam Noord, a rapidly developing neighborhood with an industrial edge. Qua Restaurant located directly across from the free ferry terminal takes full advantage of the panoramic waterfront views in their lofty, light-filled dining room. Enjoy sail-inspired signature fare like smoked eel with buttermilk and herbs.
