Amsterdam’s food and drink scene is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re on a weekend break, celebrating with friends, or exploring as a family, this guide highlights the top food and drink experiences for Irish travellers. From traditional Dutch snacks and vibrant street food to trendy cafés, lively pubs, and fine dining experiences, Amsterdam’s food and drink scene has something for everyone. Use this quick guide as your starting point.
Firstly, a Taste of Home – Irish Grub in Amsterdam!
No matter how much we love exploring Amsterdam’s food scene, sometimes you just crave a little taste of home. Whether it’s a proper fry-up, a hearty stew, or a pint poured just right, Amsterdam has a few great spots that serve up Irish comfort food with a Dutch twist.
1. Aran Irish Pub (Leidseplein)
Aran’s is one of our go-to spots when we’re missing a bit of home. They do a great full Irish breakfast (perfect after a late night in Leidseplein!) and solid pub classics like burgers, fish and chips, and shepherd’s pie. Pair it with a creamy pint of Guinness and you’re sorted. See our full review of Aran here: Irish Bar Review: Aran Irish Pub
2. O’Donnell’s (near the Heineken Experience)
O’Donnell’s might be known for its pints and lively atmosphere, but the food here deserves a shout-out too. You’ll often find Irish-inspired dishes on the menu alongside Dutch snacks like bitterballen. The staff are always friendly, and it’s a great spot for groups or a casual meal. See our full review of O’Donnell’s here: Irish Bar Review: O’Donnell’s.
3. Mulligan’s Irish Music Bar (Amstel)
Famous for its live music, Mulligan’s also serves up some great pub grub. Think toasties, chips, and hearty snacks – nothing fancy, but exactly what you need with a pint while enjoying a session.
4. Durty Nelly’s (Warmoesstraat)
Part of a hostel, but don’t let that put you off – Durty Nelly’s has a proper Irish pub feel and serves up familiar comfort food, including full breakfasts, burgers, and plenty of fries. It’s right in the heart of the city, making it an easy stop for a casual meal.
So if you find yourself craving something hearty and familiar, Amsterdam has you covered. Whether it’s breakfast after a night out or dinner before a canal stroll, these spots bring a little bit of Ireland to the Netherlands. 🇮🇪❤️🇳🇱
Amsterdam Food Experiences
One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is through its food. From traditional Dutch bites like stroopwafels and bitterballen to Indonesian rijsttafel and international street food, the city’s food tours give you a real taste of its culture. Whether you join a guided walk through local markets, hop between hidden cafés, or take a canal cruise with snacks and drinks, there’s a tour to suit every appetite. A food tour is a great way to explore the city while sampling flavours you might otherwise miss.
Amsterdam Beer Experiences
Amsterdam has a long and proud brewing tradition, and a beer tour is one of the best ways to experience it. From historic breweries and canal-side taprooms to modern craft beer bars and tasting halls, you’ll discover the stories behind the city’s most famous pints — and sample a few along the way. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a true beer enthusiast, Amsterdam’s beer tours offer the perfect mix of local flavour, history, and good craic.