Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is known for its picturesque canals, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene. Whether you’re a traveler planning a budget-friendly vacation or a food lover eager to explore local flavors, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: How much does a meal cost in Amsterdam?
This guide dives deep into dining costs across various budgets, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. You’ll discover how meal prices vary by cuisine, location, time of day, and dining style, along with practical tips to eat well without overspending.
Understanding Amsterdam’s Food Culture and Dining Economy
Amsterdam’s food culture is a blend of traditional Dutch fare, international influences, and modern gastronomy. With a high concentration of expats, tourists, and food innovators, the city offers a wide spectrum of options—from €2 stroopwafels at a farmers’ market to €150 multi-course dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants.
The Netherlands’ strong economy, high cost of living, and tourism-driven market mean that Amsterdam isn’t the cheapest European city for meals. However, value, variety, and quality often justify the prices.
The Big Picture: Average Meal Costs in Amsterdam
On average, the cost of a meal in Amsterdam breaks down as follows:
- Budget meal: €10–€15 (e.g., a sandwich, soup, or fast food)
- Average restaurant meal: €25–€40 (main course + drink)
- Fine dining experience: €60 and up (multi-course meals at upscale venues)
- Street food/snack: €3–€8 (e.g., a falafel, herring, or stroopwafel)
These figures are based on current (2024) averages from traveler reports, local surveys, and restaurant price listings across the city.
Influence of Location and Tourist Density
One of the key factors influencing meal pricing in Amsterdam is location. Restaurants in tourist hotspots like Dam Square, the Red Light District, or near major museums often charge 20–30% more than venues in residential neighborhoods such as De Pijp or Oud-West.
For example:
– A €25 pasta dish near Dam Square might cost €18 in a local trattoria in Jordaan.
– A tourist-oriented pancake house may charge €15 for a basic pancake, while a family-run eatery in Amsterdam-Zuid offers the same for €9.
Avoiding the busiest tourist zones can significantly reduce your meal expenses while often improving food quality.
Cheap Eats: Budget-Friendly Meal Options in Amsterdam
Eating on a budget in Amsterdam is absolutely possible, especially if you embrace local habits and discover non-touristy gems.
Street Food and Snacks Under €10
Amsterdam’s street food scene is rich in flavor and affordable options. Sample these favorites:
- Stroopwafel: €2–€3 at markets or supermarkets
- Haring (raw herring): €3–€5 from a local herring cart
- Falafel: €4–€7 for a generous sandwich at places like Döner Shop or Falafelzaak
- Bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs): €6–€8 for a portion of 6 at a café
- Kibbeling (fried white fish): €5–€7 from a fish stand
The famous Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp is a hotspot for cheap and satisfying bites. Locals swear by its falafel stands and fresh juice bars.
Lunch Deals and “Dagmenu” Specials
Many restaurants across Amsterdam offer a “Dagmenu” or daily lunch menu, typically priced between €12 and €18. These usually include a starter, main course, and sometimes a drink or dessert. They’re an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome, sit-down meal at a discounted rate.
Popular restaurants like De Bakkerswinkel or Café de Jaren offer lunch menus with quality ingredients and cozy ambiance. Even some higher-end spots like Restaurant Greetje include a lunch menu that delivers traditional Dutch cuisine at reasonable prices.
Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
Groceries can be a cost-effective strategy for travelers open to DIY dining. A sandwich, fruit, and drink from a supermarket might cost only €5–€7.
Popular supermarkets include:
– Albert Heijn: Nationwide chain with premium and budget lines (AH To Go for quick lunches)
– Lidl: German discount store with great sandwiches and snacks
– Jan van Arkel: Organic-focused with affordable plant-based options
Pro Tip: Visit supermarkets between 7–9 PM for markdowns on perishable items.
Mid-Range Dining: What to Expect for a Standard Meal
For most visitors and locals, mid-range dining offers the best balance of quality, ambiance, and affordability. These restaurants often feature diverse menus, attentive service, and quality ingredients.
Typical Costs for Dinner at a Casual Restaurant
A dinner at a standard sit-down restaurant (non-tourist area) usually runs €25–€35 per person without alcohol.
| Item | Average Cost (2024) |
|——|———————|
| Starter | €7–€10 |
| Main course | €16–€24 |
| Glass of wine | €6–€9 |
| Soft drink | €2.50–€4 |
| Dessert | €6–€8 |
This means a full meal with drink and dessert could total around €35. If you’re splitting a bottle of wine (€25–€35), costs per person drop slightly.
Tipping is customary in the Netherlands, though not mandatory. A 10–15% tip is common if service is good. Note: Service charges are not automatically included.
Popular Mid-Range Restaurant Examples
- Moeders: Traditional Dutch home cooking in a cozy setting. Expect €13–€20 for mains like stamppot or beef stew.
- Foodhallen: A trendy indoor food market with global cuisines. Stalls charge €8–€15 for generous portions (e.g., Vietnamese bun, Dutch bitterballen, or Argentinian empanadas).
- Pastabar Pasta & More: Reliable Italian options with mains under €15.
- Burgermeester: Gourmet burgers starting at €12, with loaded fries and craft beers.
These venues offer a high return on value and are frequented by both tourists and locals.
Fine Dining and Luxury Meal Experiences
For travelers seeking gourmet indulgence, Amsterdam boasts an impressive number of Michelin-starred and high-end restaurants known for creativity, presentation, and premium ingredients.
MiChelin-Starred Dining: What You’ll Pay
Amsterdam has over 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, including:
- Restaurant Ciel Bleu (2 stars): €195+ for a tasting menu
- Bord’Eau (1 star): €125–€150 for a multi-course experience
- Science (1 star): €95 for a molecular gastronomy journey
- De Plantage (1 star): €100+ with wine pairings
These prices typically do not include drinks, service, or tax. Add between €50–€150 for a full wine pairing and gratuity.
Even restaurants with “Bib Gourmand” (Michelin’s recognition for great food at moderate prices) may cost €45–€70 for a full meal.
Upscale Casual and Trendy Venues
Not all expensive meals require a jacket and reservation weeks in advance. Trendy rooftop bars and “new Nordic” concept restaurants charge premium prices due to ambiance and location.
Examples:
– REV Café & Bar (A’DAM Tower): €25–€30 for a burger with panoramic views
– SkyLounge Amsterdam: Cocktail dinners ranging from €40–€60 per person
– De Belhamel: Fine French-Dutch cuisine in a historic setting; mains €30–€45
These venues offer elevated dining at prices that reflect the experience—not just the food.
Meals by Cuisine: Comparing Cost Across Food Types
The cost of a meal in Amsterdam varies significantly based on cuisine type. Here’s a breakdown by popular categories:
Dutch Cuisine
Traditional Dutch food is often hearty and reasonably priced. However, many Dutch restaurants market to tourists, which can inflate prices.
- Poffertjes (mini pancakes): €5–€8
- Stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage): €12–€18 at a traditional eatery
- Haring with onions: €4 (stand) to €10 (restaurant with seating)
- Indonesian Rijsttafel (Dutch colonial influence): €25–€40 for a lavish tasting platter
Amsterdam has a rich Indonesian culinary heritage from its colonial past. Restaurants like Sampurna or Tonga Tong offer authentic rijsttafel experiences at reasonable prices.
Italian
Italian food is highly popular in Amsterdam. A decent pasta or pizza dish ranges from €12–€20.
- Pizzeria da Nicola: €14–€18 for authentic Neapolitan pizza
- Pasta e Basta: €11–€16 for handmade pasta
- High-end Italian (e.g. Gusto): Mains €25–€35
Asian Cuisine
Asian options proliferate across Amsterdam, particularly Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese.
| Cuisine | Average Main Course Price |
|———|—————————-|
| Sushi | €15–€25 |
| Thai | €13–€19 |
| Ramen | €12–€16 |
| Chinese (non-tourist): | €10–€14 |
| Korean BBQ | €20–€30 (all-you-can-eat) |
For budget-friendly Asian eats, visit Singel 404, a hidden gem serving Korean and fusion dishes, or Wok to Walk for fast stir-fries under €10.
Middle Eastern and Mediterranean
Falafel, shawarma, and hummus bowls are common and affordable.
- Falafel Balls (Albert Cuyp): €5 for a packed sandwich
- Shawarma: €7–€9 at places like Kebab House
- Greek mezze platter: €15–€20 for shared dishes
Breakfast, Coffee, and Brunch: What Are the Costs?
Breakfast in Amsterdam can be surprisingly expensive—especially if eaten at a café or hotel.
Coffee and Pastries
- Espresso: €2.80–€3.50
- Cappuccino/Latte: €4–€5
- Croissant or pastry: €3–€5
- Combo (coffee + pastry): €7–€9
Independent coffee shops like Scandinavian Embassy or Bocca Coffee are known for quality but charge premium prices. Chains like Starbucks are slightly cheaper but less authentic.
Brunch Culture in Amsterdam
Brunch is a popular weekend tradition, with many venues offering extensive menus from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Average brunch cost: €20–€28 per person
Popular brunch spots:
– The Avocado Show: €22–€28 for themed avocado dishes
– Sugar Factory: €25 for brunch buffet (trendy but touristy)
– MR. & MRS. EVERYTHING: €18–€22 for modern, fresh dishes
– Pluk:** €21 for healthy options with organic ingredients
Look for early bird specials or pre-book online; some places offer 10% discounts for reservations before noon.
Dining Out vs. Self-Catering: Saving Money While Eating Well
Whether you’re backpacking or traveling with family, understanding when to eat out and when to cook can save hundreds over a week-long trip.
The True Cost of Hotel Breakfast
Hotel breakfasts in Amsterdam often cost €18–€25 per person. For a family of four, that’s €80–€100 daily—expensive for what’s typically toast, yogurt, fruit, and coffee.
Better alternatives:
– Pick up breakfast at a bakery (€5 per person)
– Grab supplies at Albert Heijn (baguette, cheese, fruit for under €10 total)
Short-Term Rentals with Kitchens
Staying in an Airbnb or serviced apartment with a kitchen allows self-catering. Even preparing one or two meals per day can cut food costs by 30–50%.
Example weekly savings:
– Dining out for all meals: €40/day → €280/week
– Self-cater breakfast + one dinner: €25/day → €175/week
– Savings: €105
Seasonal and Event-Based Price Fluctuations
Prices in Amsterdam aren’t static. They change based on season, holidays, and major events.
Peak Season vs. Off-Season
- Summer (June–August): Restaurant prices rise 10–15% due to high demand. Outdoor seating and tourist influx drive up costs.
- Winter (November–February): Many venues offer promotions and fixed-price menus to attract diners.
- King’s Day (April 27): Prices spike or restaurants close; street food becomes the main option.
- Amsterdam Fashion Week, Pride, or Canal Festival: Hotel and dining prices surge.
Book restaurants early during festivals and consider eating off-peak (5:30–6:30 PM) for early bird discounts.
Tips to Eat Well on a Budget in Amsterdam
Enjoying Amsterdam’s food scene without overspending is all about smart planning and local knowledge.
Eat Like a Local
Locals shop at markets, grab lunches on the go, and avoid tourist traps. Follow their lead:
– Eat at lunchtime when “dagschotel” (dish of the day) is offered
– Choose cafés with outdoor seating in residential areas
– Use apps like The Fork or Quandoo to book tables with discounts
Explore Beyond the City Center
Venture into neighborhoods like:
– Oud-West: Trendy, diverse eateries at fair prices
– De Pijp: Home to Albert Cuyp Market and multicultural food
– Amsterdam-Noord: Ferries are free; explore food halls like Pllek or NDSM-werf
Look for Meal Deals and Happy Hours
Some bars and restaurants offer:
– Two-for-one deals on appetizers
– Happy hour drinks (€4 beers, €6 cocktails) from 5–7 PM
– Free tasting samples at cheese shops (e.g., Reypenaer)
Use Public Transport to Access Affordable Dining
Amsterdam’s metro, tram, and ferry system makes accessing budget-friendly food areas easy. For instance, travel to **Buiksloterweg Market** or **Ten Cate Markt** for authentic ethnic food under €10.
Conclusion: Balancing Cost, Quality, and Experience
So, how much does a meal cost in Amsterdam? The answer isn’t simple—it depends on what, where, and how you eat.
For budget travelers, meals can average €10–€15 with smart choices. Mid-range diners spending €25–€40 can enjoy rich, diverse menus in comfortable settings. Meanwhile, luxury seekers will find world-class dining experiences worth the splurge—but at €60+ per person, it’s not for the faint of wallet.
To make the most of Amsterdam’s culinary offerings:
– Favor off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods
– Take advantage of lunch deals and markets
– Limit hotel breakfasts and embrace grocery shopping
– Plan ahead during peak seasons
Whether you’re savoring a €3 stroopwafel by a canal or indulging in a Michelin-starred tasting menu, Amsterdam offers unforgettable food experiences across every budget. With a bit of local insight and strategy, you can eat well, save money, and truly taste the heart of this enchanting city.
How much does a typical meal cost for one person in Amsterdam?
A typical meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Amsterdam costs around €18–€22, which usually includes a main course, a drink, and sometimes a side. This price range is common at casual dining spots, local cafés, and ethnic eateries such as Turkish or Surinamese restaurants, which are known for offering flavorful and affordable options. In tourist-heavy areas like the city center or near major attractions, prices may be slightly higher due to overhead costs and demand.
If you’re dining at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay between €25 and €40 per person for a three-course meal. This includes a starter, main course, and dessert, possibly with a glass of wine or beer. Some restaurants offer lunch menus that are significantly cheaper than dinner, sometimes priced between €15 and €25, making them a great value for budget-conscious visitors. Overall, dining prices in Amsterdam have risen in recent years, but careful selection of venues outside of prime tourist zones can help keep costs manageable.
Are fast food meals cheaper in Amsterdam compared to sit-down restaurants?
Yes, fast food or casual dining options in Amsterdam are noticeably cheaper than full-service sit-down restaurants. A meal at a fast food chain like McDonald’s or KFC typically costs around €10–€14 and includes a burger, fries, and a drink. Additionally, local fast food favorites such as kroketten, frikandellen, or a stroopwafel from a snack bar can cost as little as €3–€6, making them excellent options for quick and budget-friendly eats.
Street food markets like Foodhallen in Oud-West offer a vibrant alternative, where various vendors serve dishes from €6 to €12 each. These types of venues combine the convenience of fast food with the quality and diversity of gourmet street cuisine. While cheaper than traditional restaurants, prices at such trendy venues are often higher than regular snackbar meals. Still, fast food in Amsterdam remains a cost-effective way to enjoy a meal, especially when exploring the city on foot.
What is the average cost of dining at a high-end restaurant in Amsterdam?
Dining at a high-end restaurant in Amsterdam can cost anywhere from €70 to €150 per person for a full multi-course meal, excluding beverages. Restaurants with Michelin stars, such as De Librije or Ciel Bleu, often offer tasting menus priced between €125 and €200, which include expertly crafted dishes, wine pairings, and exceptional service. These establishments focus on seasonal ingredients, innovative techniques, and an immersive dining experience.
Wine and drinks can significantly increase the total bill, with a single bottle of quality wine averaging €60–€100. Tipping is customary and usually around 10–15%, though service charges are often included in the bill at upscale venues. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners. While expensive, fine dining in Amsterdam is known for its creativity and international recognition, making it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions.
How do meal prices in Amsterdam compare to other major European cities?
Amsterdam’s meal prices are relatively high compared to many Eastern and Southern European cities but are generally on par with other Western European capitals like Berlin, Paris, and Copenhagen. An inexpensive meal in Amsterdam is slightly more expensive than in Lisbon or Budapest, but less than in Oslo or Zurich. The city’s cost of dining reflects its overall high cost of living and strong tourism industry, which influence pricing at restaurants and cafés.
Compared to London, Amsterdam can be slightly cheaper for casual dining, though high-end restaurants may be similarly priced. One key difference is that Amsterdam offers a broader range of affordable yet high-quality international cuisine, thanks to its multicultural population. Additionally, lunch deals and “happy hour” promotions are more common than in some other European cities, helping to bring down average dining costs when planned strategically.
Are there budget-friendly dining options for vegetarians and vegans in Amsterdam?
Yes, Amsterdam offers numerous budget-friendly dining options for vegetarians and vegans, with many cafés and restaurants catering to plant-based diets without a significant price premium. Places like Vegabond, Meatless District, and De Vegetarische Slager offer vegan sandwiches, burgers, and hot meals for around €8–€12. Supermarkets such as Marqt and health food stores like Marbeke also stock affordable ready-to-eat vegan meals and ingredients.
Several ethnic restaurants serve naturally vegetarian-friendly dishes at low prices. For instance, Indian dahl, Middle Eastern falafel wraps, or Indonesian vegetable rijsttafel components can be found for under €10. Many traditional Dutch markets, such as the Albert Cuyp Market, feature plant-based snacks like falafel and vegan stroopwafels. With increasing awareness and availability, plant-based eaters can enjoy diverse, healthy, and inexpensive meals across the city.
Is tipping expected in Amsterdam restaurants, and how does it affect meal cost?
Tipping is customary in Amsterdam, though not as strictly enforced as in countries like the US. Service charges are often included in the bill, especially at mid-range and high-end restaurants, but it’s common to round up the total or leave an additional 5–10% if the service was good. For example, if your meal costs €45 and the service was satisfactory, leaving €50 is considered appropriate. This practice adds to the overall meal cost but remains discretionary.
In casual dining spots or cafés, tipping is less common, but leaving small change or rounding up is still appreciated. Some locals may not tip at all in fast food or self-service establishments. However, in full-service restaurants, especially those frequented by tourists, servers rely on tips as part of their income. Therefore, factoring in a modest tip helps support fair wages and is a polite gesture when enjoying a sit-down meal.
Can I save money by eating lunch instead of dinner in Amsterdam?
Yes, dining during lunch hours is one of the most effective ways to save money in Amsterdam. Many mid-range and upscale restaurants offer “lunch menus” or “lunch deals” that include two or three courses for €15–€25—significantly less than the same meal at dinner, which could cost €35–€60. These lunch specials are especially common in business districts and tourist areas, allowing diners to enjoy quality food at a reduced price.
Lunch menus often feature a rotating selection of starters, main dishes, and desserts, showcasing the chef’s creativity without the dinner-time premium. Some restaurants even offer these deals on weekends, though availability may vary. By planning meals around lunchtime, visitors can experience fine dining, international cuisine, or Dutch classics at a fraction of the cost, making it a smart strategy for budget-conscious travelers.