When you think of the Netherlands, you probably imagine canals, bicycles, and windmills. But the country also offers a rich culinary scene that’s worth the trip alone. Dutch food is simple yet delicious, drawing heavily on fresh ingredients, dairy products, and fish. Let’s break down the best things to eat here, from must-try classics to hidden gems you can find in local markets and beyond.
Traditional Dutch Dishes
The Dutch might not be world-famous for their cuisine, but there are some standouts you mustn’t miss during your visit.
Stamppot
This hearty comfort food is as Dutch as it gets. Stamppot is a mash of potatoes mixed with veggies like kale, carrots, or sauerkraut. It’s usually served with rookworst, a sausage. Perfect for colder days, you’ll find variations of Stamppot all over the country, especially in traditional Dutch restaurants.
Erwtensoep (Dutch Pea Soup)
Thick, hearty, and green, Dutch pea soup (known as “snert”) is a winter staple. Made of split peas, pork, and vegetables, it’s thick enough to stand a spoon in. Locals love it during the icy skating season, and it’s often served with rye bread and smoked ham (katenspek). Eating this soup warms both your body and soul!
Bitterballen
Ready for a savory snack? Bitterballen are deep-fried balls of beef ragout. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re usually served with good mustard. Bitterballen are perfect with a cold beer and are a staple in Dutch bars (called bruin cafés).
Popular Dutch Street Foods
Forget sitting down for a big meal—street food is where you’ll really start to appreciate the country’s unique flavors.
Haring (Dutch Herring)
Raw herring is the street food you’ve heard all about. They serve it with onions and pickles, and it’s customary to pick it up by the tail and eat it in one bite. Find herring stands scattered around the Netherlands, especially in Amsterdam. If you’re not up for raw fish, ask for herring in a sandwich (broodje haring); it’s a gentler introduction!
Stroopwafels
Indulge your sweet tooth with a Dutch stroopwafel. This thin waffle cookie is filled with a delicious caramel-syrup layer. You can find fresh stroopwafels at markets across the country. Too good to resist, stroopwafels are best eaten warm. In some cafes, they’ll even place them on top of your coffee cup, so the caramel melts a little.
Patat (Dutch Fries)
This isn’t just any batch of fries. Dutch fries come thick and crunchy, often served with a variety of sauces. The most popular choice is patatje oorlog (“war fries”), which come loaded with peanut sauce, mayonnaise, and onions. Super satisfying and the ultimate street food indulgence you’ll want to dive into in cities like Rotterdam or Utrecht.
Cheese Lovers Paradise
Yes, the Dutch love their cheese—enough to have entire markets dedicated to it. For cheese fans, visiting the Netherlands will be a dream come true.
Gouda
Of course, Gouda is one of the most famous Dutch cheeses and a global favorite. You can pick it up aged or young, mild or sharp. While you’re at it, head straight to the town of Gouda itself, where they hold a traditional cheese market during the summer months. It’s a perfect chance to soak in Dutch history and grab some local products.
Edam
Another iconic cheese, Edam is slightly softer and lighter than Gouda but equally delicious. Head to the weekly Edam cheese market to watch the famous Dutch cheese merchants at work. Whether fresh out of the market or from a supermarket, Dutch Edam pairs wonderfully with crackers or bread.
Leiden Cheese
Want to try something different? Go for the local favorite, Leiden cheese. It’s spiced with cumin and has a unique flavor. Cheese shops in Amsterdam, Haarlem, and the Hague are great places to find this cheesy treat. If you’re looking for something new and interesting, Leiden cheese won’t disappoint.
Regional Specialties
While Holland and the surrounding cities steal most of the spotlight, each Dutch region has its own local cuisines you shouldn’t overlook.
Eel from Volendam or Friesland
Smoked eel, or paling, is a delicacy you’ll find in fishing towns like Volendam and regions in Friesland. The smoky flavor of the eel makes it a unique dish that pairs well with local breads. It might not be for everyone, but you’ll appreciate this delicacy if you crave bold tastes. Try it fresh or smoked from a fishmonger.
Zeeuwse Mosselen (Mussels from Zeeland)
Zeeland is famous for its seafood. Mussels, in particular, are a signature dish, usually served steamed with white wine, garlic, and herbs. Restaurants across Zeeland offer them in abundance, and if you’re a shellfish fan, you know where to go! Pair them with a crisp white wine or a local beer for the full experience.
Oliebollen
If you’re in the Netherlands around New Year’s, you’ll come across oliebollen stands all over the country. These deep-fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar are a holiday season treat. Some come with raisins or apple, adding a slight sweetness. As you walk the winter streets, there’s no better way to warm up.
Where to Eat: Local Markets and Fine Dining
Markets
To experience the best of Dutch food culture, don’t miss the local markets. In cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, markets aren’t just for veggies—they’re bustling hubs full of street foods.
Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam is one of the oldest and most vibrant. You can find everything from fresh fish to stroopwafels. For seafood lovers, the Binnenrotte Market in Rotterdam is fantastic for fresh catches of the day, while the Dappermarkt in Amsterdam East lets you explore international flavors as well as local favorites.
Fine Dining
Looking for something upscale? The Netherlands has plenty of options. In Amsterdam, the Michelin-starred restaurant Ciel Bleu offers stunning views along with creative dishes inspired by global and Dutch cuisine. Another top pick is De Librije in Zwolle, one of the Netherlands’ finest restaurants, known for its innovative dishes and focus on local ingredients.
For seafood, head to Vis aan de Schelde in Amsterdam, where they serve up fresh North Sea fish with a modern twist. And if you’re looking for a wonderful meal in the Hague, try Restaurant Calla’s, where every dish feels like a crafted, artistic experience.
Drinks to Try
No dining experience is complete without drinks. The Netherlands has a few favorites you won’t want to miss.
Jenever (Dutch Gin)
Jenever is the original gin. Before you dive into a bottle of Heineken, give this traditional gin-like spirit a try. You’ll find it in many bars, where locals sip it as a shot with beer on the side. It comes in two forms: young and old (with old offering a more aromatic and aged taste). Visit bars in Amsterdam like Wynand Fockink for a taste of history with your jenever.
Beer
Heineken might be the big name, but local craft breweries are booming in the Netherlands. Check out De Prael in Amsterdam for quirky brews or Brouwerij ‘t IJ, where you can sip craft beer by a windmill. There’s no better way to connect with the local scene than by drinking craft beer that’s brewed right in the heart of the city.
Koffie Verkeerd (Dutch Coffee)
If you need a caffeine fix, don’t just order a regular cup of coffee. Go for a koffie verkeerd, which is basically the Dutch version of a latte. It’s half milk and half coffee, but served slightly weaker than what you might be used to. It’s a perfect afternoon pick-me-up, best enjoyed in a cozy café or outside on a sunny terrace.
Final Thoughts
Dutch cuisine is far more than just pancakes and cheese. Wherever you find yourself in the Netherlands, there’s something delicious around every corner—from street food stalls and local markets to fine dining restaurants. Whether you’re devouring fresh fish by the seaside or biting into a crispy bitterbal in a bruin café, you’ll discover that Dutch food is simple, fresh, and hearty.
Happy eating and enjoy every bite!
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