The atlas / Vol. XXXIVReading

Netherlands

1 city in this edition · 13 bites stamped nationwide

Plate XXXIV · Netherlands at the table

The cities

1 chapter
Amsterdam13 bitesCh. 01 · Haring · StroopwafelStart here

Netherlands food starts with city-specific dishes: Amsterdam for Haring and Stroopwafel.

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The rankings

8 lists
Best HaringIn pressAmsterdam's haring is a triumph of simple preservation that transforms raw young herring into a delicate, buttery delicacy. The fish is gutted and salted at sea, then ripened for a brief period to achieve its signature soft texture. It is traditionally served on a paper tray with finely chopped onions and tangy pickles to cut through the richness of the fish oils. While some prefer the 'broodje' (sandwich) version, the purist move is to eat it plain while standing by a canal. This is a quick, high-protein fuel that connects the modern city to its historic seafaring roots.Best StroopwafelIn pressThe stroopwafel is the ultimate Dutch sweet, a thin, circular waffle held together by a layer of warm, spiced caramel syrup. Originally created in Gouda as a way to use up bakery crumbs, it has become Amsterdam's most iconic edible souvenir. While the packaged versions are famous worldwide, the true experience is eating one 'verse' (fresh) at a market stall. The waffles are pressed in a hot iron and then split with a sharp knife to be filled with the molten syrup. It is a sensory delight of crunch and chew that is best enjoyed while walking through the city's historic markets.Best BitterballenIn pressBitterballen are the ultimate Dutch bar snack, small deep-fried ragout balls that are an essential part of 'Borrel' culture. They are traditionally made with a thick beef or veal ragout, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until perfectly crisp. These savory spheres are always served with a side of sharp mustard for dipping and must be eaten with caution due to their molten centers. In Amsterdam, they are the social glue of the city's brown cafes and canal-side terraces. No afternoon in a Dutch pub is complete without a shared platter of these hot, salty treats.Best Patat MetIn pressPatat Met, or fries with mayonnaise, is the quintessential Amsterdam street fuel, served in iconic paper cones. These are not your average fast-food fries; they are thick-cut, double-fried for maximum crunch, and fluffy on the inside. While mayonnaise is the traditional topping, Amsterdammers have elevated the snack with a variety of sauces like 'Oorlog' (peanut sauce, mayo, and onions). The sight of people leaning forward to avoid sauce drips is a common urban vignette. For the best experience, look for a 'Frituur' that cuts its potatoes fresh daily.Best RijsttafelIn pressRijsttafel, or 'rice table,' is a grand Indonesian-Dutch feast that reflects the Netherlands' colonial history. It is a shared meal consisting of dozens of small side dishes served with various types of rice. Travelers can expect an array of flavors ranging from mild coconut curries to intensely spicy sambals, featuring meat, seafood, and vegetables. This culinary tradition was developed by Dutch residents of Indonesia to sample the diverse regional flavors of the archipelago in one sitting. In Amsterdam, it has become the city's most celebrated formal dining experience, requiring both time and a healthy appetite.Best KibbelingIn pressKibbeling is a beloved Dutch snack of deep-fried, battered white fish, traditionally cod but now often hake or pollock. The fish is cut into bite-sized chunks, coated in a light, seasoned batter, and fried until golden and crispy. It is almost always served with a side of 'Ravigotte' or garlic sauce for dipping. In Amsterdam, you'll find the best kibbeling at the same haringkarren and fishmongers that serve herring. It is a hearty and satisfying snack that is particularly popular as a quick lunch or an afternoon treat.Best PannenkoekenIn pressDutch pancakes, or Pannenkoeken, are significantly larger and thinner than their American counterparts, often filling an entire plate. They are incredibly versatile, served with a wide range of sweet or savory toppings from traditional apple and cinnamon to bacon and cheese. Unlike crêpes, the batter is slightly thicker and heartier, making them a satisfying meal at any time of the day. In Amsterdam, many historic pancake houses are set in charming old buildings, adding a layer of nostalgia to the meal. They are a beloved family staple and a must-try for any visitor to the city.Best KaasIn pressDutch cheese, or Kaas, is a world-renowned culinary export, with Gouda and Edam being the most famous varieties. In Amsterdam, cheese culture is defined by 'Oude Kaas' (aged cheese), which develops deep, nutty flavors and crunchy protein crystals over years of ripening. Unlike the mild, rubbery versions found abroad, real Dutch aged cheese is intensely savory and complex. Visitors should seek out specialized 'Kaaswinkels' (cheese shops) where they can sample different ages and milk types. From farmhouse specialties to herb-infused wheels, the city offers an incredible depth of artisanal dairy craft.