DINING ON A BUDGET IN AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals and vibrant atmosphere, offers a variety of dining options that won’t break the bank. From Dutch street food to international cuisine, the city provides excellent choices for budget-conscious travelers. Discover the addresses listed above as well as how to savor the flavors of Amsterdam while keeping your wallet happy.

Being Wallet-friendly:

Renowned for its picturesque canals and vibrant culture, may give the impression of being an expensive place to dine. However, you’ll be pleased to discover that Amsterdam offers a delightful array of budget-friendly culinary experiences, from street food markets to charming eateries. Here’s a guide to dining on a budget in Amsterdam, complete with a list of wallet-friendly options.

1. Street Food Markets: Amsterdam boasts a thriving street food scene. Explore De Hallen, a former tram depot turned food hall, where you can savor diverse international flavors, from Dutch bitterballen to exotic curries. For a taste of local street food, don’t miss the herring stands by the canals or the popular Dutch kroket.

2. Dutch Pancakes: Try traditional Dutch pancakes known as pannenkoeken. You can find budget-friendly options at various pancake houses across the city. Enjoy them sweet or savory, with a variety of toppings.

3. Snackbar: For a quick and economical meal, visit a snack bar or “snackbar.” These Dutch fast-food establishments offer classics like patat (fries) with an array of toppings, including the famous patatje oorlog with peanut sauce and onions.

4. Indonesian Rijsttafel: For an affordable introduction to Dutch-Indonesian cuisine, opt for a rijsttafel. This traditional meal consists of small dishes with various flavors and spices. Sharing a rijsttafel with friends can be cost-effective and delightful.

5. Budget-Friendly Cafés: Explore Amsterdam’s many cafés that offer reasonably priced breakfast and lunch options. These charming spots are perfect for savoring Dutch sandwiches, pastries, and coffee without breaking the bank.

6. Albert Cuyp Market: This bustling street market in the De Pijp neighborhood is an excellent place to sample Dutch street food, buy fresh produce, and pick up affordable bites, including herring sandwiches and stroopwafels.

7. Foodhallen: Similar to De Hallen, Foodhallen is another indoor food market offering a variety of international and local cuisine. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a diverse culinary experience in a lively atmosphere.

8. Vondelpark Picnic: Purchase ingredients from local supermarkets or street markets, like the Albert Cuyp Market, and enjoy a budget-friendly picnic in the beautiful Vondelpark. It’s a perfect way to relish Dutch treats while savoring the outdoors.

9. Dutch Beer Cafés: Opt for a local Dutch beer café for reasonably priced food and a wide selection of Dutch beers. These cozy establishments often serve hearty meals like erwtensoep (split pea soup) and croquettes.

Restaurants/Bars:

FEBO:

  • Overview: FEBO is a Dutch fast-food chain famous for its automat-style service. You’ll find a range of Dutch snacks like krokets and frikandellen in vending machines.
  • Average Price: €2-5 per item.
  • Website: FEBO
  • Address: Multiple locations throughout Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Easily accessible, with multiple outlets in the city center.
  • Suggested Dish: Try the “Kroket” or the “Frikandel.”

Manneken Pis Friet:

  • Overview: Manneken Pis Friet is a cozy spot specializing in Belgian-style fries. Choose from various sauces to accompany your crispy fries.
  • Average Price: €4-7 per portion.
  • Website: Manneken Pis Friet
  • Address: Damrak 41, 1012 LK Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Located near Amsterdam Central Station, making it convenient for visitors.
  • Suggested Dish: Enjoy the “Patat Oorlog” with peanut sauce, mayo, and onions.

Wok to Walk:

  • Overview: Wok to Walk is a popular fast-casual chain where you can customize your stir-fry or noodle box with various ingredients and sauces.
  • Average Price: €7-10 per box.
  • Website: Wok to Walk
  • Address: Multiple locations in Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Several branches are located in the city center for easy access.
  • Suggested Dish: Create your own personalized wok box.

The Happy Pig Pancake Shop:

  • Overview: The Happy Pig Pancake Shop offers a delightful selection of sweet and savory Dutch pancakes. It’s a great place to experience traditional Dutch cuisine.
  • Average Price: €7-12 per pancake.
  • Website: The Happy Pig Pancake Shop
  • Address: Rosmarijnsteeg 12, 1012 RP Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Situated in the city center, near Dam Square.
  • Suggested Dish: Try a “Bacon and Cheese” pancake or a sweet “Apple Cinnamon” pancake.

Skek:

  • Overview: Skek is a student-friendly cafe that offers affordable meals, including burgers, sandwiches, and pasta, in a relaxed setting.
  • Average Price: €8-12 per person.
  • Website: Skek
  • Address: Zeedijk 4, 1012 AX Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Chinatown.
  • Suggested Dish: Enjoy a “Classic Cheeseburger” with fries.

Bakers & Roasters:

  • Overview: Bakers & Roasters is a cozy brunch spot with a Kiwi twist. They serve all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and a variety of egg dishes.
  • Average Price: €10-15 per person.
  • Website: Bakers & Roasters
  • Address: Eerste Jacob van Campenstraat 54, 1072 BH Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: In the De Pijp neighborhood, a short walk from Heineken Experience.
  • Suggested Dish: Try the “Kiwi Style Big Breakfast.”

Wurst & Schnitzelhaus:

  • Overview: Wurst & Schnitzelhaus is a small German eatery serving hearty sausages, schnitzels, and German beers in a casual atmosphere.
  • Average Price: €12-16 per person.
  • Website: Wurst & Schnitzelhaus
  • Address: Utrechtsestraat 30, 1017 VN Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Located in the city center, not far from Rembrandt Square.
  • Suggested Dish: Enjoy the “Currywurst” or a classic “Schnitzel.”

Burger Bar:

  • Overview: Burger Bar offers a wide range of gourmet burgers with various toppings and sauces. You can customize your burger to your liking.
  • Average Price: €10-14 per burger.
  • Website: Burger Bar
  • Address: Kolksteeg 2, 1012 PT Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Conveniently situated in the city center, close to Dam Square.
  • Suggested Dish: Build your own burger with your favorite toppings.

De Vier Pilaren:

  • Overview: De Vier Pilaren is a cozy Dutch pancake house where you can enjoy a selection of sweet and savory pancakes in a traditional Dutch setting.
  • Average Price: €10-14 per pancake.
  • Website: De Vier Pilaren
  • Address: St. Annenstraat 98, 1012 HH Amsterdam.
  • How to Get There: Located in the city center, near the Red Light District.
  • Suggested Dish: Try a “Bacon and Cheese” pancake or a sweet “Apple Cinnamon” pancake.