Amsterdam: Food Journal

The Netherlands holds a very special place in my heart. I’ve been lucky to have close friends who live there, which has given me the chance to visit often—and to see the country in a more personal, everyday way. Over time, it’s become a kind of second home. Amsterdam in particular is one of my favorite cities in the world.

De Pijp Neighborhood

It’s a city that’s easy to fall in love with. The canals, the bikes, the unapologetic charm—it all feels instantly familiar and endlessly interesting. But what keeps me coming back is more than just the scenery. It’s the people, the pace of life, and yes—the food. And of course, those summer sunsets at 10:30pm are magical!!

Canal Views

A few years ago, no one would have called Amsterdam a food destination. But things have changed a lot. The food scene has exploded in the best possible way. From casual bites to beautifully plated tasting menus, there’s a growing sense of creativity and care in the kitchens here.

I’ve eaten some truly memorable meals in Amsterdam recently. Not just at the fancy spots, but at places that feel thoughtful, local, and delicious without trying too hard. There’s an openness to international flavors, and a real appreciation for fresh, quality ingredients.

But it’s not just about trends—it feels like the food here is growing up, finding its voice, and having fun with it.

In this post, I’m sharing some of my favorite places to eat in Amsterdam. A mix of relaxed and refined, everyday and celebratory. These are the spots I keep going back to, or can’t wait to return to.

If you’re planning a trip, I hope this guide helps you eat well and enjoy the city even more. And if you’re just daydreaming, maybe it gives you a taste of why Amsterdam is always worth a visit.

1. Restaurant t’ Heemelrijck

   Van Woustraat 23, 1074 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   Heemelrijck is a beautifully restored eetcafé on Van Woustraat in De Pijp. Founded in 1949 by “opa Nars” as a sandwich shop and evolving through the generations into a beloved neighbourhood restaurant, it honors family recipes—like hearty stews, stamppot, and snert—served in a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. The vibe is unapologetically “gezellig”: inviting, authentic, and timeless, making it feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s beloved family home in the heart of Amsterdam. I am obsessed with their Bitterballen and do not miss the Zuurkoolstamppot!

   

   Bitterballen at Heemelrijck

2. Locals All Day Brunch

   Eerste Jacob van Campenstraat 27-H, 1072 BC Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   Locals All Day Brunch on Eerste Jacob Street felt like the kind of neighborhood place you stumble into once and keep coming back to. The food is straightforward and solid—nothing overcomplicated, just really well-done brunch classics with good coffee and a relaxed vibe. I loved the chicken avocado sandwich.

   
   

3. Restaurant Bak

   Van Diemenstraat 408, 1013 CR Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   BAK is a warm, modern spot tucked into the top floor of an old warehouse, with beautiful views over the IJ river. The staff were genuinely kind and welcoming, and their fixed tasting menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a creative but unfussy approach. The lamb here was outstanding.

   
   

4. Restaurant Troef

   Schollenbrugstraat 8, 1091 EX Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   Troef was my favorite meal in Amsterdam—one of those dinners where everything just clicked. The food was thoughtful without being too serious, the space felt alive and warm, and the staff made us feel like we were exactly where we were supposed to be. The Dutch authenticity was present everywhere, noth in food and service. I left already wanting to come back, a little full and a little emotional in the best way.

   
   

   

   Steak at Troef

   
   

5. Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels at Albert Cuyp Markt

   Albert Cuyp Straat, t/o 182, 1073 BK Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels has been a family-run stall at the Albert Cuyp Market since 1978, serving freshly made waffles using a secret recipe passed down through generations. It’s hands-down the best stroopwafel I’ve had in the city—gooey, warm, and just €2.50 (or €3.50 with chocolate). The people running it are incredibly kind, and there’s something special about watching your waffle pressed fresh while the caramel melts inside.

   
   

6. Peacock Alley at The Waldorf Astoria

   Herengracht 542-556, Ground Floor, 1017 DV Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is pure elegance—lots of natural light, with comfortable seating and a view of a stunning, UNESCO-protected garden. The vibe is calm, luxurious, and perfect for lunch or an afternoon tea or snack. And honestly, they serve the BEST club sandwich I’ve ever had!!

7. 

   Club Sandwich at The Peacock Alley

   
   

8. Pantopia

   Kerkstraat 163, 1017 GG Amsterdam, Netherlands

   
   

   Absolutely loved this bakery. It’s kinda like an arts gallery and pastries are displayed in a really unique way. I was blown away by their pistachio croissant!!