Amsterdam is a city where pancakes aren’t just a humble breakfast food; they’re a beloved tradition, with sweet and savory versions enjoyed any time of day. From fluffy Dutch-style pannenkoeken to international twists, the city serves up a mouthwatering variety of sweet and savory options to try on an Amsterdam food walk.
What Makes Dutch Pancakes Different?
Iconic Dutch pancakes come in two forms, each with its own charm. Pannenkoeken are large, thin, and slightly chewy. I think they’re similar to a crepe but heartier and more toothsome. They’re often cooked with toppings like smoky bacon, tangy cheese, or sweet apple baked right into the batter. This leaves room for some culinary creativity from innovative Amsterdam chefs.
On the other end of the spectrum are poffertjes, which are small and fluffy bite-sized pancakes that are more than a little bit addictive. They’re typically served in generous portions with melting butter and a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for washing down with some fresh-squeezed orange juice or hot coffee.
Unlike the breakfast-only pancake tradition in many countries, Dutch pancakes are enjoyed any time of day, often for lunch or dinner, and served in everything from laid-back pancake houses to cozy, centuries-old cafés.
Our Guides’ Favorite Pancake Houses
We believe that understanding a city starts with its comfort food, and in Amsterdam, that means classic Dutch foods like the humble pancake. Our team has spent years tasting every variation to ensure we recommend only the most authentic spots. These venues represent the heart of Dutch domestic cooking and offer a glimpse into our daily lives.
The Pancake Bakery
Photo credit: The Pancake Bakery
Tucked inside a 17th-century canal house on Prinsengracht, The Pancake Bakery has been delighting diners since 1973. They have a reputation for pannenkoeken that are as large as they are creative.
I like how the menu celebrates both Dutch pancake tradition and global flavors. They have everything from the classic bacon-and-cheese combination to Indonesian chicken saté and even Thai curry. The cozy, wood-beamed interior feels steeped in history, making each bite feel like part of a long-cherished Amsterdam ritual.
On my last visit, I ordered their bacon-and-cheese pannenkoek, which was indulgent with a perfectly golden-brown edge. It had all the comfort food flavors of home I needed at the moment.
The Pancake Bakery (€6 to €20) – Prinsengracht 191, 1015 DS Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis
Photo credit: Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis
Climb the steep, narrow staircase of a 16th-century canal house in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, and you’ll find one of Europe’s smallest and most charming pancake houses. Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis offers just four tables beneath a ceiling strung with teapots, creating a whimsical, intimate atmosphere perfect for a leisurely meal. With such limited seating, it’s wise to make a reservation.
The kitchen leans on organic, locally sourced ingredients, serving both sweet and savory pancakes. There are also heartier options like pulled beef or chicken ragout. The pulled-beef pancake I ordered, rich and comforting in a way that perfectly matched the
Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis (€12 to €13) – Grimburgwal 2, 1012 GA Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Moak Pancakes
Photo credit: Moak Pancakes
I appreciate how Moak brings a fresh, health-forward twist to the Amsterdam pancake scene. Proudly serving up stacks made from spelt or oat flour in a pastel-lit, pic-worthy space.
While the menu covers Dutch classics, it also winks at luxury with creations like the gold-leaf-adorned “Versace” pancake. There are also some deliciously sweet berry-topped stacks draped in chocolate, while savory fans will find lighter, modern combinations to suit the mood. The red-berry pancake I had here was a revelation. Fresh, bright, and indulgent with a true taste of the local terroir coming through in the berries.
Moak (€7 to €20) – Jodenbreestraat 144, 1011 NS Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The Happy Pig Pancake Shop
Photo credit: The Happy Pig Pancake Shop
A tiny gem on Spuistraat, The Happy Pig is known for its rolled pancakes packed with organic and creative fillings. Whether it’s the Dutch Delight with Gouda and fig jam, one of their chili-spiced creations, or a custom roll built from fresh toppings, everything here is made with care and a sense of fun.
The space is small and casual, perfect for grabbing a quick bite before heading back out to explore. On my last visit, I bit into the Dutch Delight roll, the sweet fig and nutty Gouda melted together in such perfect harmony. Definitely a must-try Dutch pancake experience.
The Happy Pig Pancake Shop (€6 to €12) – Rosmarijnsteeg 12, 1012 RP Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Classic Toppings to Try
Amsterdam’s pancake houses serve up a tempting mix of savory and sweet combinations. Some of the more popular classics include combinations like bacon and cheese, ham and mushroom, or spinach and goat cheese.
If you have a sweet tooth, I recommend indulging in apple and cinnamon, strawberries with whipped cream, or the simple perfection of lemon and sugar. Nutella is also a classic topping with Dutch pancakes.
For poffertjes, nothing beats a drizzle of Dutch stroop and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Most spots also let you mix and match, so you can build your own dream pancake and taste Amsterdam exactly how you like it.
When & How Locals Eat Pancakes
In Amsterdam, pancakes aren’t just for breakfast; they’re an all-day comfort food, often enjoyed for a leisurely lunch or a relaxed dinner. They’re family-friendly, budget-conscious, and a favorite choice on weekends, holidays, or those gray, rainy afternoons when something warm and filling hits the spot.
Portions tend to be generous, making Dutch pancakes perfect for sharing. While many pancake houses draw plenty of tourists, locals still frequent the ones that maintain high-quality ingredients and authentic Dutch flavors.
Provenance of Pancakes in Amsterdam
The flour used in traditional Dutch pancakes often comes from local windmills that still grind grain using historic methods. We recommend looking for menus that mention “molensteen” or stone-ground flour for the most authentic texture. This connection to our agricultural history makes every bite more meaningful. Supporting these traditional millers helps preserve a vital part of our culinary heritage.
Dutch Pancake Etiquette
When eating a large pannenkoek, we typically use a knife and fork rather than rolling it up like a crepe. It is perfectly acceptable to mix sweet and savory flavors, such as bacon with stroop, a thick Dutch beet syrup. We find that the contrast of salt and deep caramel notes is a favorite among locals. Do not be afraid to ask for extra stroop if it is not already on your table.
Final Thoughts: Pancakes Worth Planning a Meal Around
In Amsterdam, pancakes are far more than a quick snack—they’re a hearty, homey meal that can anchor an entire outing. From historic canal-side restaurants to bustling market stalls, there’s a pancake for every craving, mood, and occasion. Whether it’s a comfort food classic, pannenkoek, or innovative poffertjes, Dutch pancakes need to be a part of your next day of eating around Amsterdam.
Sources:
Eating Europe. (n.d.). Traditional Dutch food: 10 dishes you need to try in the Netherlands.
Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/traditional-dutch-food/
Eating Europe. (n.d.). Amsterdam food tours. Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/amsterdam/
Moak Pancakes. (n.d.). Moak pancakes. https://moakpancakes.nl/
Pancake Amsterdam. (n.d.). Pancake Amsterdam. https://www.pancake.nl/
The Happy Pig Pancake Shop. (n.d.). The Happy Pig Pancake Shop. http://www.thehappypig.nl/
Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis. (n.d.). Upstairs pannenkoekenhuis. http://www.upstairspannenkoeken.nl/
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