Now I’ll say time and time again, Amsterdam is not a top food destination. I said what I said. In more recent trips this has been even more true, to the point on our last trip we dreaded finding a place to eat. But fear not! Brunch, now brunch, is something I find Amsterdam does well.
Fan Faves
Here are the staples, tried and tasted time and time again.
Greenwoods
We actually discovered Greenwoods for the first time in Edinburgh and were very happy to find they had 2 locations in Amsterdam! The Singel location is in city centre and the Keizersgracht location is in one of the outer rings before you get into the surrounding neighborhoods.
They don’t take reservations; you’ll have to get into the queue when you get there so try and go early. We have only been to the Keizersgracht location and the queue even in off season gets long fast (I imagine their other location is similar).
What to order:
- The special – whatever it is it is usually great! We had some great specials at their Edinburgh location too.
- Shaksuka – I cannot personally vouch for this dish because of dietary restrictions I can’t order it, but my partner has ordered this on numerous occasions and loves it! If you are a fan of shakshuka Greenwood’s is great!
- English Breakfast – a classic, you really can’t go wrong!
- The Dutchman – great option if you decide between breakfast and lunch and/or want something on the lighter side. The sourdough bread was amazing and you can just taste how fresh it is!
Ouef
Another great option in the De Pijp neighborhood! We went on a weekday in off season and were seated immediately. But like any brunch spot in the summer you’ll likely have a wait if you go in core brunch hours.
What to order:
- Croque Madame – It appears the menu has changed since I last ordered this (it used to come with jamon iberico and that was a delightful twist) but the current menu states they are using smoked ham. Regardless it was delightful!
Overall Best Brunch
Bakers & Roasters
If you’re looking at blogs, Google, or really anywhere on the internet for a breakfast spot in Amsterdam I am sure Bakers & Roasters has come up in your search. Let me assure you that IT IS WORTH THE HYPE. I think I’ve been here 20+ times at this point over the course of 6 years and not once have I had a bad meal there!
They have 2 locations now, one in city centre and one in De Pijp. If you are near the De Pijp location I recommend that one, after your meal you can pop over to the Albert Cyrup market!
What to order:
- (Kinda Classic) Eggs Benny – Warning the bread is crispy, honestly almost hard to cut but I promise it is worth it if you are an egg benedict fan!
- Mocha Latte – You can’t go wrong with a regular latte either but I feel like their mocha is a nice treat. Sweet but not too sweet.
What to skip:
- Cakes at the counter – While it wasn’t a complete waste of calories, the red velvet cake was dry and overall underwhelming. I’d venture out to a bakery somewhere or Muiz Gelato (it’s so good really go) if you are looking to satisfy a sweet tooth.
Other Notable Brunch Spots
Staring at Jacob
You will need a reservation here! It is a popular spot, and we had a great breakfast here and I feel it is worth the hype.
Omlegg
We have not had the chance to try it, but it has great reviews and 2 locations.
LOCALS all day brunch
Another place we never tried but walked by several times, they also have a location in De Pijp, close to Bakers & Roasters (I am telling you they have all the best places in that neighborhood).