Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant food culture, and its restaurants reflect this diversity. Dutch cuisine is heavily influenced by seafood, cheese, and meat, and many Amsterdam restaurants feature these ingredients in their dishes. For example, you can try dishes like stamppot (a mashed potato dish with vegetables and sausage) or bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs).
Due to Amsterdam's colonial history, Indonesian and Surinamese cuisines have also become popular in the city. Indonesian cuisine, in particular, is well-loved for its flavorful dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (grilled skewered meat), and gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Surinamese cuisine is a blend of Indian, African, Chinese, and Dutch influences, and it features dishes like roti (flatbread with curried chicken or vegetables) and pom (baked cassava dish).
Amsterdam is also home to a thriving vegetarian and vegan food scene, with many restaurants and cafes offering plant-based options. Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines are well-represented in these offerings, with dishes like falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh on the menu.
Overall, Amsterdam restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences, from casual street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. Whether you're looking for traditional Dutch dishes or international cuisine, you're sure to find something delicious in Amsterdam.