Amsterdam is a beautiful city with canals, culture, and history. It’s a great place for tourists. But it’s also amazing for people who love food, especially vegans. A Vegan Foodie’s Guide to Amsterdam” is your perfect companion to explore the city’s delicious plant-based offerings. Amsterdam has lots of yummy vegan options. You can try traditional Dutch foods, street food, and fancy restaurant meals. This guide will help you find the best vegan food in Amsterdam.
Traditional Vegan Dutch Foods to Try
When you think of Dutch food, you might think of cheese and fish. But there are many tasty vegan options too. These foods give you a taste of Dutch culture without using animal products. Here are some vegan Dutch foods you should try:
Stroopwafels
Stroopwafels are a famous Dutch treat. They are thin waffles with sweet syrup inside. In Amsterdam, you can find vegan stroopwafels made without butter or eggs. They are crispy and chewy. They taste great with coffee or tea. You can buy them at markets and vegan bakeries all over the city.
Poffertjes
Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes. They are usually made with yeast and buckwheat flour. You can find vegan versions at many food stalls. They come with powdered sugar and vegan butter on top. Poffertjes are a nostalgic snack that many Dutch people love. Once you try them, you’ll want to eat more!
Bitterballen
Bitterballen is a popular Dutch snack. Usually, it has meat inside. But now there are vegan versions too. These are made with mushrooms, lentils, or seitan. Vegan bitterballen are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. They’re perfect to eat with a drink at a local bar.
Dutch Apple Pie
You can’t visit the Netherlands without trying Dutch apple pie. Many cafes in Amsterdam offer vegan apple pies. They have a crumbly crust and sweet, spiced apples inside. Try it with some vegan whipped cream on top for an extra special treat.
Best Street Food Spots
Amsterdam has great street food. There are many vegan options that show how creative the city’s food scene is. Here are some of the best places to get vegan street food:
Foodhallen
Foodhallen is an indoor food market. It used to be a tram depot. Now it has many food vendors in one place. You can find lots of vegan options here. There are Vietnamese spring rolls, vegan burgers, and falafel wraps. It’s a great place to try different foods in a fun, lively setting.
Vegan Junk Food Bar
As the name suggests, this place serves vegan versions of junk food. They have vegan burgers, loaded fries, and vegan Dutch snacks. The food looks really cool, perfect for taking pictures for social media. It’s a must-visit for any vegan who loves comfort food.
Albert Cuyp Market
This is a busy street market in the De Pijp neighborhood. Food lovers will enjoy exploring here. You can find stalls selling vegan stroopwafels, fresh fruit smoothies, and savory snacks like vegan bitterballen and falafel. The market is lively and has many different foods to try.
Vegan Deli
Vegan Deli is in the center of Amsterdam. It’s a small shop that offers many vegan street food options. They have vegan hot dogs, tasty sandwiches, and wraps. It’s perfect for a quick meal while you’re exploring the city. Don’t forget to try their vegan cheese platter, which has locally made plant-based cheeses.
Top Vegan Restaurants in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has many great vegan restaurants. These places offer food for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best vegan restaurants in the city:
TerraZen Centre
TerraZen Centre is special because it mixes Japanese and Caribbean food. All their dishes are vegan. You can get sushi rolls, tempura, curries, and Caribbean stews. The restaurant has a cozy, relaxed feeling. The staff is friendly, and both locals and tourists love eating here.
De Peper
De Peper is in an old school building. It’s run by volunteers and doesn’t aim to make a profit. They use organic ingredients from local farms. The menu changes every day. You pay a fixed price for a three-course meal. The food is creative and delicious. Eating here is also good for the environment.
Mr. & Mrs. Watson
This restaurant is known for fancy vegan food. They make their own plant-based cheese. The menu has many yummy dishes. You can try creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, savory pies, and delicious desserts. The restaurant looks nice inside, and the service is friendly.
Dophert
Dophert serves vegan comfort food with a modern twist. They have burgers, sandwiches, and big brunch options. Their vegan pancakes and avocado toast are very popular. The restaurant is in the Westerpark neighborhood. It has a relaxed feeling and great food, making it perfect for a long, enjoyable meal.
Spirit
Spirit is a buffet-style restaurant. They have many organic, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. You can choose from salads, soups, hot main dishes, and desserts. You pay based on how much your plate weighs. This lets you try a little bit of everything, which is great if you like variety.
What is the Ideal Price in Vegan Restaurants in Amsterdam?
The cost of vegan food in Amsterdam can be different depending on where you eat. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
Budget-Friendly Options
If you want to save money, there are many affordable vegan options. Street food places like Vegan Junk Food Bar and Albert Cuyp Market have meals from €5 to €15. Cafes and small shops like Vegan Deli offer filling meals for about €10 to €15.
Mid-Range Restaurants
For a sit-down meal, mid-range vegan restaurants like Dophert and TerraZen Centre have main dishes priced between €12 and €20. These places are comfortable and give you good portions of food for your money.
Higher-End Dining
If you want a fancier meal, restaurants like Mr. & Mrs. Watson and De Peper offer gourmet vegan food. Main courses here cost from €20 to €30. These restaurants are more expensive, but the food quality and overall experience are very good.
Tips for Vegan Travelers in Amsterdam
It’s easy to be a vegan in Amsterdam. The city has many food options and cares about being environmentally friendly.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy vegan food in Amsterdam:
Plan Ahead
Amsterdam has many vegan options, but popular restaurants can get busy. Try to make reservations before you go, especially during busy times. Plan where you’ll eat based on what else you’re doing in the city. This will help you make the most of your time.
Explore Different Neighborhoods
Each part of Amsterdam has its own style and food options. Don’t just stay in the city center. Check out areas like De Pijp, Jordaan, and Westerpark. You might find some great restaurants that aren’t as well-known.
Embrace Local Markets
Amsterdam’s markets are great places to find fresh, vegan-friendly foods. Besides the Albert Cuyp Market, visit the Noordermarkt and the Dappermarkt. You can find fresh fruits and vegetables, vegan snacks, and handmade products.
Use Apps and Online Resources
Apps like HappyCow can help you find vegan restaurants. Google Maps is also useful for finding places and reading reviews. Look for local vegan blogs and social media groups too. These can give you good recommendations and insider tips.
Try Vegan Versions of Dutch Classics
Part of the fun of traveling is trying local food. Look for vegan versions of traditional Dutch foods. This way, you can experience the local culture while still eating vegan.
Learn Some Dutch Food Words Knowing a few Dutch food words can be helpful. Here are some useful ones:
- “Veganistisch” means vegan
- “Zonder” means without
- “Groenten” means vegetables
- “Fruit” is the same in Dutch and English
- “Brood” means bread
Be Open to New Experiences Amsterdam’s vegan scene is always changing. Be willing to try new things. You might discover a new favorite food or restaurant!
Pack Some Snacks
While Amsterdam has many vegan options, it’s always good to have some snacks with you. This can be helpful if you’re out exploring and get hungry between meals.
Check Opening Hours
Some restaurants in Amsterdam might have different opening hours than you’re used to. Check the opening times before you go to avoid disappointment.
Ask Locals for Recommendations
Dutch people are often friendly and speak good English. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for their favorite vegan spots. They might know some great places that aren’t in guidebooks.
Amsterdam is a great place for vegans who love food. The city offers many delicious options. You can try traditional Dutch snacks made vegan. There’s tasty street food to enjoy while exploring. And there are fancy restaurants for special meals.
Amsterdam has vegan food for every taste and budget. You can have a sweet vegan stroopwafel as a snack. You might enjoy a gourmet meal at a top restaurant. Or you could explore the vibrant markets for fresh, local foods.
So, get ready for a great food adventure in Amsterdam. Pack your bags and bring a big appetite. Try new foods, visit different neighborhoods, and enjoy the city’s vegan delights. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll make wonderful memories.
Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just curious about plant-based food, Amsterdam has something for you.
Remember to take your time and enjoy each meal. Food is an important part of experiencing a new culture. In Amsterdam, you can do this while staying true to your vegan values. Happy eating!