Best Local and International Restaurants in the Netherlands
The Netherlands’ culinary landscape in 2026 is a vibrant tapestry that celebrates both its deep-rooted maritime traditions and its status as a global crossroads. From historic pancake houses to avant-garde fusion spots, the country offers a diverse palette for every traveler.
The Heart of Local Cuisine
To experience authentic Dutch flavors, one must look beyond the modern skyline. Local dining is defined by “Gezelligheid”—a uniquely Dutch term for coziness and social connection.
A quintessential local stop is Moeders in Amsterdam. True to its name (which means “Mothers”), this restaurant serves traditional comfort food like Stamppot (mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and sausage) and Sudderlapjes (slow-braised beef). The walls are adorned with hundreds of framed photos of mothers, creating a nostalgic, home-cooked atmosphere.
For a taste of the North Sea, The Seafood Bar remains a local favorite for its “fruits de mer” platters. Here, you can sample Dutch shrimp and seasonal mussels sourced directly from Zeeland. Meanwhile, no trip is complete chinese food winter park without visiting a traditional “Bruin Café” (Brown Cafe) like Café Hoppe, where locals gather for Bitterballen (deep-fried gravy balls) and local craft beers.
A Global Gastronomic Hub
The Netherlands has a long history of international influence, particularly from its former colonies and its role as a European trade center. This has resulted in some of the best international dining in the world.
Indonesian Excellence: The most iconic international dining experience in the Netherlands is the Rijsttafel (rice table). Restaurant Blauw, with locations in Amsterdam and Utrecht, is renowned for this elaborate feast consisting of dozens of small, spicy side dishes. It is a culinary bridge between the East and West that has become a staple of Dutch identity.
Japanese Precision: In Amsterdam’s “Little Tokyo” district, Yamazato (located in the Hotel Okura) offers authentic Kaiseki cuisine. As the first traditional Japanese restaurant in Europe to earn a Michelin star, it provides an exacting, high-end experience that transports diners directly to Kyoto.
Modern Middle Eastern: The rise of contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine has taken the country by storm. NENI Amsterdam, housed in a former Citroën garage, serves vibrant “Balagan” style dishes like hummus, falafel, and grilled meats, reflecting the diverse, Mediterranean spirit that characterizes modern Dutch cities.
The 2026 Dining Scene
In 2026, the trend focuses heavily on “Farm-to-Table” concepts. Restaurants like De Kas, situated in a set of historic greenhouses, blur the line between local and international by using homegrown Dutch produce to create world-class Mediterranean dishes.
Whether you are seeking the salty crunch of a local herring from a street stall or the complex spices of a world-class Indonesian curry, the Netherlands provides a culinary journey that is as inclusive as it is delicious.
