North Holland The Netherlands Travel Guide
Dutch food developed from a need for sustenance rather than elaborate culinary art. It emphasizes produce in season, milk products, meats, and fish.
The Netherlands' vast trading network brought flavorings and international ingredients, particularly from former colonies like Indonesia. This influence led to the integration of international cuisine, making Indonesian Rijsttafel (rice table) a popular dining experience.
Not mandatory but welcome for excellent service. Service charges are usually included.
Recommended for dinner, especially on weekends or for popular restaurants.
Service is generally efficient and direct. Staff may not hover; signal if you need assistance.
Thin, round waffles with a caramel-like syrup filling. Best fresh and warm from stalls at the market.
A sweet treat, perfect with coffee.
A Dutch delicacy. Served with chopped raw onions and pickles at street fish stalls.
Hold by the tail, tilt head back, and bite upwards.
Deep-fried crispy meatballs with a flavorful ragout filling, usually served with mustard.
A popular snack in bars and cafes.
Popular local and international beers, plus traditional Dutch gin (Jenever).
Dutch apple pie with crumbly topping. Licorice (Drop) is extremely popular, having lots of varieties.
For special occasions, consider Ratatouille Food & Wine (Michelin-starred) or Brick for upscale experiences.
Numerous options offering diverse cuisines. Mooie Boules Haarlem, Specktakel, and Toujours are favored options.
Explore eetcafes, kebab shops, and concession stands. Street food stalls on Grote Markt offer quick bites.
Vegetarian meals are increasingly available. Dedicated vegan restaurants are emerging.
Look for "vegetarisch" or "veganistisch" on menus.
Awareness of allergies is growing. Inform staff clearly.
Use apps like HappyCow to find restaurants appropriate for kids.
Brewery in a former church, unique ambiance.
Grote Markt has food stalls on Saturdays.
Explore Haarlem'the food scene with a guided tour.
Wide range from Indonesian to Italian.
A former church turned into a brewery plus majestic cafe/restaurant. Experience local craft beers.
Offers brewery tours and has an unique ambiance.
Regularly hosts live music events. Check their schedule.
Blends past with modern craft culture and entertainment.
Beyond the popular items, look for Frikandel (skinless, deep-fried sausage) and Kroket (deep-fried roll with creamy meat ragout filling).
Haarlem has fine dining, mid-range restaurants, and budget eateries. International cuisine, especially Indonesian, is available.
Breakfast 7-9 AM, Lunch 12-2 PM, Dinner 6-8 IN the evening.
Tipping is not mandatory; service charge is usually included.
Michelin-starred for a top-tier dining experience.
Exquisite dishes and wine pairings.
Another upscale choice for fine dining.
Offers a refined culinary journey.
Combines indoor jeu de boules with a food hall atmosphere.
Offers international fusion cuisine in a setting.
A popular French bistro serving classic dishes.
Awareness of allergies is growing among Dutch restaurants. It is invariably wise to inform the staff clearly about your dietary restrictions.
