Amsterdam isn’t just about tulips, bikes, and canals — it’s a city that tastes as good as it looks. From creamy Dutch cheese to sweet pancakes and the irresistible smell of freshly baked apple pie, every corner of the city invites you to eat like a local. And there’s no better way to do it than on a culinary canal cruise, drifting past centuries-old bridges as you savor authentic Dutch dishes and drinks.
Book your culinary canal cruise with Private Boat Tours Amsterdam—where every meal comes with a view.
Traditional Dutch Food Amsterdam: Eat and Drink on a Boat
Eating traditional Dutch food on a canal boat adds an unforgettable twist to your trip. You will be past the Magere Brug and the glowing bridges of the town, with a plate of Dutch pancakes in front of you and a craft beer in hand. We have minibars on each boat, and you can check our high tea tour features to learn how we make your tour enjoyable with delicious sweet treats.
These are our three most popular boats for exploring the Amsterdam canals, chosen by individuals and groups.
Your private boat captain guides you through the waterways while you taste, sip, and soak in the atmosphere. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this is how to experience cuisine at its best.
Courses | Duration Required |
3 courses | 3 hours |
4 courses | 3.5 hours |
5 courses | 4 hours |
6 courses | 4.5 hours |
7 courses | 6 hours |
Contact Us to Book your culinary canal cruise with Private Boat Tours Amsterdam and indulge in Amsterdam’s food scene—one delicious bite at a time.
What Makes Traditional Dutch Food in Amsterdam So Unique?
Traditional Dutch food reflects the country’s history, and geography. Dutch cuisine is hearty, simple, and full of flavor — designed to warm you up on cold days and keep you fueled for cycling adventures. Think potatoes, vegetables, and meat (often referred to as the holy trinity of Dutch meals), balanced by sweet treats like pancakes and apple pie.
When you visit Amsterdam, you’ll notice how locals mix old favorites with modern twists. From street vending machines serving crispy croquettes to fine-dining restaurants like Wilde Zwijnen, Dutch gastronomy has something for every taste.
A Taste of History—How Dutch Cuisine Evolved from Colonies to Canals
Dutch cuisine tells a fascinating story. Centuries of global trade, Dutch colonies, and colonial connections shaped the flavors that make the Netherlands a foodie paradise today. Spices from Indonesia, coffee from South America, and cocoa from Africa all made their way into Dutch kitchens.
The most famous legacy? Indonesian food, especially the rijsttafel — a feast of small dishes like satay, curry, and spicy vegetables. Enjoying this on a canal boat as the city lights sparkle around you is an authentic Amsterdam experience.
Top Traditional Dutch Dishes You Must Try in Amsterdam
If you’re wondering what to eat in Amsterdam, start with these classic Dutch dishes:
Stamppot: Mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables like kale or sauerkraut — a winter favorite.
Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs, best enjoyed with mustard and a cold Dutch beer.
Poffertjes: Pancakes topped with powdered sugar and butter — small but unforgettable.
Haring: Raw herring fish served with onions and pickles — a taste of Dutch history.
Each dish tells a story about the country’s seasons, the town’s culture, and a love for comfort food.
Dutch Pancakes and Mini Pancakes: Sweet Treats You Can’t Miss
Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) are a bit larger and thinner than American ones, yet thicker than French crêpes. They can be sweet or savory, often topped with bacon, apples, or syrup.
Try mini pancakes, called poffertjes, sprinkled with powdered sugar and whipped cream — the perfect bite-sized indulgence. Pair them with hot chocolate or coffee as you float through the canals for the ultimate Dutch moment.
- Book a morning canal tour
Apple Pie in Amsterdam – A Slice of Local Heaven
The Dutch take apple pie (appeltaart) seriously. Thick crust, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a generous topping of whipped cream make it a national treasure.
Locals will tell you that the best pie in Amsterdam is served at Café Winkel 43, near the Anne Frank House. Imagine savoring a slice while gliding past canal houses—warm, comforting, and unmistakably Dutch.
Wilde Zwijnen – A Modern Take on Traditional Dutch Cuisine
For those who love farm-to-table dining, Wilde Zwijnen in Amsterdam Oost is a must-visit. This restaurant reimagines traditional Dutch dishes with modern creativity. Expect seasonal ingredients, such as local pork, wild game, and fresh vegetables, beautifully plated and full of flavor.
It’s a great option before or after your canal tour — and a perfect place to experience Dutch gastronomy at its finest.
- Dinner cruise boat to explore amsterdam
From Vending Machines to Fine Dining – Dutch Food Culture Explained
One of the quirkiest Dutch food traditions is the vending machine snack. Step into a FEBO shop, drop in a few euros, and pull out a warm croquette or burger from the wall—fast food with Dutch flair!
On the other end of the spectrum, Amsterdam’s fine-dining restaurants offer elegant interpretations of Dutch classics. Whether it’s quick bites or multi-course dinners, Dutch food culture is all about convenience, quality, and a sense of humor.
- Take a relaxing boat tour at noon and enjoy a delicious brunch
The Famous Dutch Fries – Crispy, Golden, and Served with Sauce
Dutch fries (patat or frites) are thicker than their French cousins and twice as delicious. They’re fried until golden and served in paper cones with sauces like mayonnaise, peanut sauce (satay), or curry ketchup.
Grab a cone of fries before boarding your canal cruise — they’re the perfect snack while you explore the city.
Dutch Beer and Drinks to Pair with Your Meal
A great meal deserves great drinks. Amsterdam is home to world-renowned breweries, such as Heineken, as well as a thriving craft beer scene.
Pair your bitterballen with a cold lager, or try local brews from Brouwerij ’t IJ while watching the sunset from your boat. For something sweet, sip Dutch advocaat (egg liqueur) or a glass of jenever, the gin-like spirit that inspired London’s famous gin.
Where to Find the Best Traditional Dutch Restaurants in Amsterdam
Looking for where to eat in Amsterdam? Try these best places for Dutch food:
Moeders – A cozy restaurant filled with photos of mothers and hearty home-style dishes.
The Pancake Bakery – Classic Dutch pancakes with dozens of toppings, right by the canals.
Haesje Claes – A traditional spot serving authentic Dutch cuisine in a charming historic setting.
Wilde Zwijnen – For modern Dutch flavors and local ingredients.
Each restaurant offers a unique taste of the Netherlands — perfect to complement your canal cruise dinner.
Indonesian Cuisine and the Legendary Dutch “Rice Table” Experience
Thanks to the country’s colonial history, Indonesian cuisine is an essential part of Dutch food culture. The famous rijsttafel (“rice table”) features a dozen small plates — satay, sambal, curry, and vegetables — all served with rice.
It’s a warm, spicy, and colorful feast that represents the blend of two worlds: the Netherlands and Indonesia. You can even request a rice table experience on board your private canal dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – What Locals Eat in Amsterdam
Start your day like a local with a Dutch breakfast — bread, cheese, and a slice of ham. For lunch, grab a herring sandwich or fries on the go. Dinner often includes meat, potatoes, and vegetables, sometimes topped with a rich gravy.
Of course, dessert is where the Dutch truly shine — dutch pie, pancakes, and chocolate treats are always on the menu.
Dutch Cheese and Snacks to Try During Your Trip
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without sampling Dutch cheese. Visit a local cheese shop or market and try Gouda, Edam, and Leyden. Pair it with pickles or mustard, and you’ll understand why cheese is a point of pride in Dutch culture.
Enjoy cheese platters on your canal cruise — a sophisticated yet straightforward way to indulge in Amsterdam’s flavors.
Winter Comfort Foods – Sauerkraut, Stews, and Warm Dutch Classics
Visiting Amsterdam in winter? Cozy up with stamppot, erwtensoep (pea soup), or zuurkool (sauerkraut with sausage). These dishes are thick, warm, and perfect for cold nights on the canals.
Each time, you’ll have a magical experience enjoying hearty Dutch meals under twinkling lights as the city reflects on the water.
Eet Smakelijk! Dutch Dining Etiquette and Tips for Visitors
Dutch people love efficiency and friendliness. Before you eat, say “Eet smakelijk!” — it means “enjoy your meal.”
Tipping is appreciated but not required (5–10% is perfect). And don’t be surprised if water isn’t free — it’s just part of Dutch dining culture.
Exploring Amsterdam by Night—Dinner, Drinks, and Canal Lights
Amsterdam transforms at night. The bridges glow, music drifts across the water, and the city becomes even more romantic.
A private dinner cruise lets you enjoy this magic with great food, drinks, and company. Sip Dutch beer, taste sweet pancakes, and let the reflections of the canal houses set the mood.
Excellent Options for Tourists Who Want to Taste It All
Short on time? Choose a food-themed canal cruise that includes Dutch favorites like cheese, bitterballen, pancakes, and beer. It’s an excellent option for tourists who want to experience Amsterdam’s top dishes in one evening — without leaving their seat.
Planning Your Trip—The Best Way to Enjoy Traditional Dutch Food in Amsterdam
Exploring Dutch food is more than just eating — it’s a journey through culture, flavor, and history. From sweet pie near the Anne Frank House to savory pancakes on the canals, every bite tells a story.
So when you visit Amsterdam, skip the crowded restaurants and dine on the water instead. Taste Dutch cheese, sip Heineken, share pancakes, and let the city’s charm surround you.
Book your culinary canal cruise with Private Boat Tours Amsterdam and experience the best of traditional Dutch food — one delicious course, one beautiful view, and one unforgettable memory at a time.
FAQs
Traditional food in Amsterdam includes hearty dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), bitterballen (crispy meat croquettes), Dutch pancakes, herring, and pie. These classic Dutch foods reflect the city’s history and are best enjoyed in local cafés or on a culinary canal cruise.
The most traditional Dutch dish is stamppot, a comforting mix of mashed potatoes and vegetables served with sausage. Other popular dutch dishes include erwtensoep (pea soup), bitterballen, and pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes).
No, it’s not rude, but tipping in Amsterdam is appreciated. Service charges are usually included in the bill, but leaving a 5–10% tip in restaurants or rounding up the total for small purchases is considered polite and customary.
Amsterdam’s best street foods include stroopwafels (caramel waffles), Dutch fries with mayonnaise, hamburgers, kroket, and frikandel from vending machines, typical fruit salads, and raw herring with onions. These snacks are readily available at markets, food stalls, or before your canal boat tour.