Description
Amsterdam’s food corner scene is a proper treat for anyone who likes to eat well. You might be wandering around after a day of sightseeing, feeling a bit peckish, when you spot a food hall. The smells alone can have your stomach growling louder than a canal boat engine.
These food corners aren’t your average mall food courts. They’re much more than that: each has its own atmosphere and mix of flavours. You’ll find everything from a converted tram depot in West to smart, suit-filled spaces in the business district.
I’ve spent plenty of time exploring them, sometimes with the slight discomfort that comes from eating too much. From tacos at the Foodhallen to pho at Market 33, I’ve worked my way through Amsterdam’s food hall scene with real commitment.
The sheer variety is what stands out. You can eat your way around the world without leaving the building: Mexican, sushi, African cuisine, and plenty more. It’s a United Nations of food, with less political drama and much better snacks.
And most of these places are pretty friendly on the wallet. You can often get a satisfying meal for under €10, which is welcome in a city that can sometimes be pricey.
Key Features
So, what makes Amsterdam’s food corners special? They’re not just places to grab a quick bite; they’re full-on food experiences.
First up is the Foodhallen, in a converted tram depot in Amsterdam West. It has a lovely mix of industrial style and tempting smells, with more than 20 food stalls. You could eat here every day for a month and still try something new. My favourite? The tacos at Taqueria Lima West. I’ve been known to dream about them.
There’s more to the Foodhallen than food, too. It has a regular market, a cinema, and even a sustainable luxury hotel. Handy if you want to make an afternoon or evening of it.
If you’re more of a suit-and-tie type, or just fancy pretending for a day, try Market 33 in the Zuidas business district. It’s a little more polished, with plenty of banking types around, but don’t let that put you off. The food’s excellent and reasonably priced. I was glad to find Hello Vietnam there, serving pho and summer rolls that took me straight back to the streets of Hanoi.
For a more laid-back, hipster feel, Market 27 in Noord is a good bet. There are craft beers and artisan coffees, along with some seriously good food. Best of all, it’s right by the metro station, so you can eat your fill and waddle straight onto public transport.
World of Food in Amsterdam Zuidoost is perhaps the most exciting one, if you ask me. It’s a culinary United Nations, with everything from African yams to Caribbean johnnycakes. A great place to try something new and satisfy your curiosity about different cuisines.
Then there’s Mooie Boules in Zeeburg. Is it a food court or a bowling alley? Both, actually. Play a game of boules, then refuel with Indonesian street food or a juicy burger.
Variety, quality, and value are what these places have in common. Whether you’re a broke backpacker or a foodie with cash to burn, you’ll find something you like. And with so many choices under one roof, they’re ideal for groups who can’t agree on what to eat. (We’ve all been there, right?)
Best Time to Visit
When’s the best time to visit? It depends on what you’re after. Maybe you want a lively atmosphere and some people-watching, or perhaps you’d rather enjoy a quieter meal where you can hear yourself think (and chew).
If you like a crowd, go in the evening or at the weekend. The Foodhallen gets especially busy on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s a bit like a food-focused nightclub, minus the overpriced drinks and questionable dancing. You’ll be rubbing elbows with locals and visitors alike, sometimes literally.
Here’s a tip from experience: if crowds aren’t your thing, try the Foodhallen on a weekday around lunchtime. I went on a Tuesday at about 1 pm and it was blissfully calm. Plenty of seats, and I could actually hear my fajitas sizzling. Lovely.
Market 33 in the Zuidas is mainly a weekday spot and isn’t open at weekends. That can be a bit of a pain if you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday. But if you can make it during the week, it’s a good place to people-watch over lunch. Don’t be surprised if you start eyeing up corner offices and power suits.
Market 27 in Noord is worth a visit any time of day, with a steady flow of people thanks to its location near the metro station. For the full hipster atmosphere, try early evening, when the after-work crowd turns up for craft beers and artisanal snacks. It’s like a live-action Instagram feed, only with better food.
World of Food in Zuidoost works well at any time, but I especially like it for an early dinner. The light’s usually good for food photos (let’s face it, we all take them), and you can browse the different cuisines without feeling rushed.
For Mooie Boules, go in the evening. It comes alive after dark, with people bowling, eating, and having a good time. There’s something oddly satisfying about finishing a burger after a game of boules.
One thing to keep in mind: Dutch weather can be unpredictable. On a rainy day, and there are plenty in Amsterdam, these indoor food corners get even more popular. They’re a cosy place to duck out of the drizzle and warm up with something comforting.
How to Get There
Now for the practical bit: getting to these food spots. It’s usually easy enough in Amsterdam, though I’ve managed to get lost more than once. Here’s how to find your way.
The Foodhallen is in Amsterdam West and is easy to reach. Take tram 17 from Central Station and get off at Ten Katestraat. If you’re feeling energetic, it’s about a 20-minute walk from Leidseplein. And the walk gives you a good excuse to order an extra taco when you arrive. Just saying.
For Market 33 in the Zuidas, head to Amsterdam Zuid station. You can get there by train, metro, or tram, then walk a short distance to the food court. Follow the smell of good food, or the suited professionals on their lunch break.
Market 27 is even simpler to find: it’s right by Noord metro station. Take the Noord/Zuid line to the end of the line and you’re there as soon as you leave the station. Almost too easy.
Getting to World of Food in Zuidoost takes a little more effort. Take metro 54 towards Gein and get off at Bullewijk station, then walk for about 10 minutes. You’ll be heading into a residential area, which is right. The food spot is there, waiting to be discovered.
Last but not least is Mooie Boules in Zeeburg. Take tram 26 from Central Station towards IJburg and get off at Rietlandpark. It’s about a five-minute walk from there. Look for the building where everyone seems to be having a very good time.
A small tip from someone who’s been hopelessly lost more often than I’d like to admit: Google Maps is your friend. Amsterdam’s public transport is excellent, but some street names can be tricky if you don’t speak Dutch. I once spent 20 minutes trying to pronounce Elandsgracht to a very patient tram driver.
If all else fails, ask a local. Dutch people are generally friendly, and most speak excellent English. They might even offer to take you there on their bike. The Dutch and their bikes are a force to be reckoned with.
Or, if you’re feeling brave, rent a bike and do as the locals do. Amsterdam is wonderfully bike-friendly, and cycling to your meal adds a bit of adventure. Maybe save the tight turns and narrow bridges for after you’ve eaten, though.
