Amsterdam

Popular Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants

1. De Bolhoed

   • Cuisine: Vegetarian with vegan options
   • Location: Prinsengracht 60
   • Highlights: A cozy café with a bohemian vibe, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including hearty salads, soups, and daily specials.
   • Price Range: €10 - €20 per dish.

2. Vegan Junk Food Bar

   • Cuisine: Vegan fast food
   • Location: Multiple locations (including Staringplein and Van Woustraat)
   • Highlights: Known for its indulgent vegan burgers, loaded fries, and milkshakes. A great spot for casual dining.
   • Price Range: €8 - €15 per dish.

3. Hummus Bistro d&a

   • Cuisine: Middle Eastern vegetarian and vegan
   • Location: Multiple locations
   • Highlights: Specializes in hummus and offers a variety of mezze, salads, and pita dishes. Many options are vegan-friendly.
   • Price Range: €10 - €20 per dish.

4. Meatless District

   • Cuisine: Vegetarian and vegan
   • Location: Bilderdijkstraat 65
   • Highlights: A trendy spot with a diverse menu featuring plant-based versions of classic dishes, brunch options, and a great atmosphere.
   • Price Range: €15 - €25 per dish.

5. Koffie ende Koeck

   • Cuisine: Vegan café
   • Location: Van Woustraat 191
   • Highlights: A charming café known for its vegan cakes, pastries, and brunch options. Perfect for a light meal or coffee break.
   • Price Range: €5 - €15 per dish.

Cafés and Food Markets

• Café de Ceuvel
  • A sustainable café located in a former shipyard, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes made from local ingredients.
• Foodhallen
  • An indoor food market featuring various stalls, including several that offer vegetarian and vegan options. Great for trying different cuisines in one place.
• Albert Cuyp Market
  • A famous street market where you can find fresh produce, snacks, and some stalls offering vegan-friendly options like falafel and fresh juices.

Supermarkets and Street Food

• Supermarkets:

  • Albert Heijn and Jumbo are the largest supermarket chains in the Netherlands. They offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan products, including plant-based meats, dairy alternatives, and ready-to-eat meals.
  • Look for the "Vegan" label on products, which is common in Dutch supermarkets.

• Street Food:

  • Keep an eye out for food trucks and stalls at markets that offer vegan options, such as falafel, vegan burgers, and fresh fruit juices.

Cultural Considerations

• Dining Etiquette:

  • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is common.
  • Many restaurants are casual, and reservations are often not required, but it’s a good idea for popular spots, especially on weekends.

• Language:

  • Most Dutch people speak English, so you can easily ask about vegan options if the menu isn’t clear.

Notable Events and Festivals

• Vegan Food Festival:

  • Held annually, this festival showcases a variety of vegan food vendors, cooking workshops, and talks. It’s a great opportunity to explore new plant-based products and meet like-minded individuals.

• Amsterdam Vegan Challenge:

  • An initiative encouraging people to try veganism for a month, often featuring events, workshops, and special menus at participating restaurants.

Tips for Finding Plant-Based Options

• Apps and Websites:
  • Use apps like HappyCow to find nearby vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Websites like VeggieHotels can also provide recommendations.
• Social Media:
  • Follow local vegan influencers or hashtags on Instagram to discover new spots and seasonal offerings.

With this guide, you should be well-equipped to explore the vegetarian and vegan culinary scene in Amsterdam. Enjoy your dining adventures!