Description
If you’re in Amsterdam with a rumbling tummy and a craving for seriously good chicken, I’ve got a tip for you. Boem Boem Chicken is the kind of place that’ll have your taste buds dancing, rave optional.
I was a bit skeptical when I first tried it. How good could a chicken joint really be in a city better known for its, ahem, “herbal” delights? Turns out, very good indeed. I was in for a finger-lickin’ surprise.
Boem Boem Chicken isn’t your average fast-food joint. They take chicken seriously, with a secret blend of spices and a crispy coating that’s hard to stop eating. It’s the sort of meal that makes you wonder why you don’t have chicken like this more often.
And it’s not just about the chicken. They put together generous meals that’ll leave you feeling like you’ve landed in foodie heaven, with combos that spin your head faster than a bike wheel on an Amsterdam canal bridge.
Key Features
So, what makes Boem Boem Chicken stand out? The signature chicken is the obvious place to start.
I don’t know what they’re doing in that kitchen, but this chicken is something else: juicy, tender, and packed with flavour. You can order portions from 250 grams up to a hefty 500 grams. If you’re hungry, go for the big one. It’s worth it.
They’ve also put together some tempting combos. You can get chicken with fries and a drink of your choice, and those fries aren’t an afterthought. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and just right alongside the chicken.
Feeling a bit fancy (or maybe you’ve indulged in some of Amsterdam’s, uh, “local specialties”)? Try a sandwich combo: choose your bread, add the chicken, fries and a drink, and you’ve got a meal fit for a Dutch king. The Boem Boem Chicken sandwich isn’t included in the deal, though, so you’ll have to splurge for that one.
If you’d rather keep things simple, or you’re too hungry to make decisions, there are boxes to choose from. Pick your favourite, add fries and a drink, and you’re good to go. It’s a happy meal for adults, minus the disappointing toy.
Best Time to Visit
When’s the best time to visit? As my grandpappy used to say, “There’s no bad time for good chicken! ” Still, if you’d rather skip the crowds, I’ve got a couple of tips.
Try going for a late lunch around 2 or 3 PM. Most of the lunch crowd will have cleared out, and you can order without elbowing your way through hungry tourists.
For a bit more atmosphere and some people-watching, go in the evening. The place tends to fill up around 7 PM, especially on weekends. You might wait a little longer, but that’s part of the deal.
If you’re out enjoying Amsterdam’s nightlife, Boem Boem Chicken is a great stop for post-party munchies. There’s nothing quite like crispy, juicy chicken when the midnight hunger hits. Just check the closing time first, so you don’t end up outside with a rumbling tummy and dreams of chicken.
During one of Amsterdam’s many festivals, the place can get packed. Don’t let that put you off: the atmosphere can be fun, and you might even make a few friends while you wait. Just be prepared for a queue, and perhaps brush up on your Dutch small talk.
How to Get There
Now for the practical bit: finding Boem Boem Chicken in Amsterdam. If you’re staying near the canals in the centre, you’re probably already close. Otherwise, take a tram or rent a bike if you’re feeling confident (and sober).
Once you’re in the city centre, the easiest option is to use your map app and search for “Boem Boem Chicken”. Or ask a local if you’d rather make a bit of an adventure of it. Just practise saying “Boem Boem” first; it’s not as easy as it looks after a few Heinekens.
Coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station? It’s a short walk or an even shorter bike ride. Head south towards Dam Square, and you’ll soon be there.
From the Jordaan, it’s a bit of a hike, but you’ll get to stretch your legs along the canals on the way. Follow the Prinsengracht south and east, and you’ll be there before you can say “Ik heb honger” (that’s “I’m hungry” in Dutch, in case you were wondering).
And if all else fails, look for people with greasy fingers and big smiles. They might’ve just come from Boem Boem Chicken.
Tips for Visiting
You know where to find Boem Boem Chicken and when to go. To make the most of your visit, come hungry. This isn’t a place for dainty eaters or calorie counters; those portions deserve your full attention.
And don’t be shy about ordering big. You might be thinking, “But I’m not that hungry! ” Trust me, once you smell the chicken, you may change your mind. Go for the 500 gram portion if you’ve got the appetite.
The sandwich combo is a good choice, but the box combo gives you a variety of chicken pieces, fries and a drink. It’s an easy way to try a bit of everything.
Don’t skimp on the sauce, either. They have some excellent dipping sauces to take your chicken up a notch. My favourite is the special Boem Boem sauce: tangy, spicy and sweet all at once.
Visiting with friends? Order a few different options and share. Chicken this good is better when everyone gets a taste, and you won’t have to leave your seat to make it happen.
Boem Boem Chicken can get busy, but don’t let that put you off. Use the wait to build up an appetite and chat with the other chicken fans in line. You might make a new friend or pick up a few Dutch swear words, always useful.
Bring some cash, just in case. They accept cards, but card machines can be as unpredictable as Dutch weather. Having cash saves you a dash to the ATM with the smell of chicken still in your nostrils.
Lastly, pace yourself. It’s hard when the food smells that good, but you’ll want to savour every bite. Take your time, enjoy the atmosphere and people-watch for a bit. You’re in Amsterdam; there’s no need to rush through a meal.
