A Taste of the Netherlands in the Heart of Amsterdam
The Netherlands is famous for its canals, windmills, and bicycles: you know the drill! But let’s talk about what really matters: typical Dutch snacks and foods.
Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something savory, Dutch cuisine has a little something for everyone. And the best part? You can enjoy some of the finest Dutch cheeses aboard our Spectacular Evening Cruise, the Ultimate Canal Cruise, or one of our private cruises.
Ready to explore the world of typical Dutch food in Amsterdam? Here are eight must-try Dutch snacks:
1. Typical Dutch Sweetness: Stroopwafels
The Ultimate Caramel Go-To
A Dutch icon and an absolute must-try! Two thin, crispy waffles sandwich a warm, sweet caramel filling that melts in your mouth. Fresh from the market stall, still warm and fragrant, it’s pure bliss.
Pro tip: Place one on top of your coffee cup and let the steam soften the caramel inside. You’re welcome.
2. Typical Dutch Snacks: Bitterballen
Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside…
Golden, deep-fried spheres of deliciousness. These crispy meat-filled bites are a staple at Dutch borrels (casual drinks with snacks). Many places offer vegan options too!
Break one open to reveal a rich, savoury ragout filling—best enjoyed with a dab of mustard and an ice-cold beer.
3. Typical Dutch Snacks: Dutch Cheeses
Say Cheeeese!
The Netherlands is a cheese-lover’s paradise. From the buttery smoothness of young Gouda to the deep, nutty flavors of aged Beemster, Dutch cheese is all you’ll ever need.
We serve only the best selections on our Spectacular Evening Cruise, the Ultimate Canal Cruise, and our private cruises, often paired with quality European wines.
4. Typical Dutch Snacks: Haring
For the Brave and the Bold
A Dutch delicacy that might raise some eyebrows, but trust us—it’s worth the adventure. This fresh, lightly salted herring is served with onions and pickles, and the real pros eat it the traditional way: holding it by the tail and lowering it into their mouth in one go. Feeling not so brave? Try it in a broodje haring (herring sandwich) instead.
5. Typical Dutch Dish: Poffertjes
Tiny Pancakes From Heaven
These fluffy little pillows of (and from!) heaven are like mini pancakes, but better. Crispy on the outside, soft and airy inside, and generously dusted with powdered sugar. Add a dollop (or more) of butter, and you’ve got yourself the taste of Dutch nostalgia on a plate.
7. Typical Dutch Candy: Drop (Licorice)
Either Love It or Hate It
Dutch people take their licorice obsession very seriously. Drop comes in countless varieties, from sweet and mild to extra salty and intense. If you’re new to Dutch licorice, start slow—once you go full-on salty, there’s no turning back.
8. Typical Dutch Snack: Kaasstengels
Absolutely Addictive
Flaky, crunchy pastry sticks packed with yum melted cheese—need we say more? Originally influenced by Indonesian flavors, these cheese-filled delights have become a borrel staple. Perfectly paired with a glass of wine, but you can also simply stuff your mouth full. They’re so good!
No wonder we serve these on many of our cruises.
9: Where to Find the Best Typical Dutch Snacks in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is packed with fantastic spots to try typical Dutch food.
- For the freshest stroopwafels, head to Albert Cuyp Market, where vendors press them warm before your eyes.
- Craving bitterballen? Stop by Café de Blauwe Parade or De BallenBar in Foodhallen for some of the city’s best.
- For authentic Dutch cheese, visit Henri Willig or Reypenaer Proeflokaal, or better yet—enjoy a premium selection aboard one of our cruises!
- If haring is on your bucket list, try Stubbe’s Haring, a local favorite near Centraal Station.
- And for those irresistible poffertjes, look no further than Poffertjes Albert Cuyp.
10: Want to Try These Dutch Delights?
You don’t have to wander the streets of Amsterdam in search of the best typical Dutch snacks—we bring them straight to you! Step aboard one of our luxurious cruises and enjoy a curated selection of fine Dutch cheeses, expertly paired with quality wines.
Or, if you’re planning a cosy evening at home, order a Borrel Box from our partner in crime Buufs Keuken and let the flavours of the Netherlands come to you.
