If you're visiting this city, you absolutely have to explore the best croquettes in Amsterdam to make your trip a truly delightful experience. More than just a quick bite, croquettes are a beloved staple of Dutch cuisine—crispy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside, and endlessly comforting. Amsterdam’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant food culture make it the perfect place to discover the many variations of this iconic treat.
From traditional snack bars tucked into charming corners of the city to modern eateries offering gourmet twists, this guide will take you on a flavorful journey through the spots that locals swear by and travelers rave about. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, prepare to fall in love with one of the Netherlands’ most delicious creations.
Best Croquettes in Amsterdam: Where to Try This Iconic Dutch Snack
Before we begin our series of recommendations, we'd like to give you a little insight into the history of this magnificent dish. In Amsterdam, the term "croquette"—or "kroket" in Dutch—typically refers to a local specialty: a crispy, deep-fried snack with a soft, savory meat ragout center, encased in a breadcrumb coating. Widely loved across the Netherlands, these treats are a staple of street food culture and are commonly served with a side of mustard for dipping.
The origins of this beloved snack can be traced back to at least 1705, when a recipe resembling the croquette was recorded in the cookbook of Louis XIV. Though not identical to the croquettes we know today, this early version—called "croquet"—was about the size of an egg, lacked the now-familiar meat ragout filling, and was fried in lard after being coated in breadcrumbs.
In the Netherlands, croquettes began to emerge in the 1830s as a clever way to reuse leftover meat, transforming it into a breaded and fried dish that helped extend its shelf life. Initially seen as a refined accompaniment on elegant dining tables, croquettes gained widespread popularity during World War II and have since become a cornerstone of Dutch snack culture.
Over time, the range of flavors has expanded significantly, with fillings now including options like goulash, veal, chicken, satay, vegetables, cheese, mashed potato, and even spiced gingerbread. With such variety, there's a croquette to satisfy every palate. Whether you go for a traditional version or a more inventive take, trying a Dutch kroket is an essential part of any culinary adventure in the Netherlands.
Iconic Croquette Spots in Amsterdam
1- Kwekkeboom
Kwekkeboom is a legendary name in the world of Dutch croquettes. With a history dating back to 1900, it began as a confectioner and has since expanded to multiple locations throughout Amsterdam. While Kwekkeboom is famous for its pastries and wedding cakes, its croquettes have gained national recognition as a beloved staple.
You can find Kwekkeboom confectioners at several locations in Amsterdam, including Reguliersbreestraat, Linnaeusstraat, Ferdinand Bolstraat, and Buikslotermeerplein. These shops provide the perfect opportunity to taste traditional Kwekkeboom croquettes in the city where they originated.
- Address: Ferdinand Bolstraat 119, Amsterdam
2- Van Dobben
Van Dobben is a name deeply rooted in Amsterdam's culinary culture. Established in 1945, this eetsalon, or Dutch sandwich bar, has become famous for its homemade croquettes.
Located on Korte Reguliersdwarsstraat, Van Dobben's original shop continues to serve their iconic "broodje kroket" – a croquette sandwich that is a must-try for visitors to Amsterdam. Their dedication to the original recipe has solidified Van Dobben's reputation as one of the best places to enjoy authentic Dutch croquettes.
- Address: Korte Reguliersdwarsstraat 5-7-9, Amsterdam
3- Holtkamp Patisserie
Patisserie Holtkamp, though not as widely recognized for croquettes as Kwekkeboom or Van Dobben, is a historic establishment in Amsterdam with its own unique approach to Dutch treats. Founded in 1886, Holtkamp is celebrated for its exquisite pastries and cakes, but also offers a selection of savory items, including croquettes.
Situated on Vijzelgracht, Holtkamp provides a charming atmosphere to savor these Dutch delicacies, making it a delightful stop for those eager to explore beyond the more popular croquette spots.
Address: Vijzelgracht 15, Amsterdam
4- FEBO
FEBO is one of the most iconic fast-food chains in the Netherlands, especially famous for its unique vending machine system. Instead of ordering at a counter, customers simply choose the number that corresponds to their snack of choice, pay with coins or a card, and a small glass door pops open to reveal their freshly prepared item.
It's a quick, no-fuss way to grab a warm bite on the go—perfect for busy locals or curious tourists looking for a truly Dutch experience. While it might not offer the charm of a candlelit dinner, its speed and efficiency make it a favorite for late-night snacks or casual street food adventures. And a fun fact: the name “FEBO” actually comes from the location of its very first store, opened in 1941 on Ferdinand Bolstraat in Amsterdam.
- Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 33, Amsterdam
What Makes Dutch Croquettes Special
The Ingredients
Dutch croquettes, or "kroketten," are renowned for their carefully chosen ingredients and meticulous preparation. At the heart of a traditional Dutch croquette is a rich meat ragout, typically made with beef, though veal and other meats are also used. The beef is slowly cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables like onions, carrots, and leeks, complemented by herbs such as parsley, thyme, and bay leaves.
This broth is reduced to create a concentrated stock, adding depth to the croquette filling. The ragout also includes a roux made from butter and flour, which thickens the mixture and gives it a smooth texture. Gelatin plays a vital role in binding the filling, allowing it to be shaped into the iconic long bars or balls.
For the exterior, breadcrumbs and egg whites are used to create a crispy coating that contrasts perfectly with the warm, savory interior.
The Preparation
Making Dutch croquettes is a labor-intensive process that requires attention to detail. It begins with the slow cooking of beef in broth, a process that can take several hours to ensure the meat becomes tender and falls apart easily.
Once the broth is strained, the meat is combined with the roux, gelatin, and spices to create the filling. This mixture is then cooled and left to set, either in the refrigerator or overnight, to achieve the right firmness for shaping.
Shaping the croquettes into uniform logs or balls demands precision. Once shaped, they are coated in a sequence of flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs to form the ideal crust.
The final step is deep-frying the croquettes until they are golden brown and crispy. This meticulous process ensures each croquette delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them a cherished snack in Dutch cuisine.
A Walking Tour in Amsterdam
Amsterdam isn’t just postcard canals and charming bikes—it’s a vibrant city layered with stories, cultures, and incredible food waiting to be uncovered. With Amsterdam Local Foodie Adventure from Sherpa Food Tours, you’re invited to go beyond the tourist path and into the kitchens, streets, and hidden gems that locals love most.
This tour is all about you. From iconic Dutch snacks like crispy bitterballen and gooey stroopwafels to bold Surinamese and Indonesian flavors that reveal Amsterdam’s global roots, every stop is chosen to fit your taste and curiosity. Your guide doesn’t just show you the food—they tell the story behind it, bringing the city’s history and heart to life.
Forget crowds and checklists—this is a journey designed to satisfy your hunger for authenticity and connection.
Why You’ll Love This Tour:
🍽️ Completely Personalized – Move at your pace, follow your cravings
🌍 Global Meets Local – Dutch traditions and multicultural bites
👫 Perfect for Any Group – Families, couples, or solo travelers welcome
Tasting bites from up-and-coming eateries in Canal Ring, Amsterdam’s trendiest neighborhood!
3.5 hours
+10 dishes & drinks
Max of 8 guests
Dutch croquettes in Amsterdam
As you embark on your culinary adventure in Amsterdam, you'll find the city is a treasure trove of delicious Dutch croquettes. From the iconic Van Dobben to the historic Grand Cafe Restaurant 1e Klas located inside Amsterdam Centraal Station, each venue offers a unique tasting experience. Be sure to sample various types of croquettes, including the classic beef and veal, as well as innovative options like cheese and arugula.
Enhance your croquette experience by pairing them with a refreshing glass of Heineken draft beer or a fine house wine for a true Dutch culinary delight. Whether you're exploring bustling local markets, uncovering hidden gems, or dining at traditional eateries, Amsterdam's vibrant food scene is ready to surprise and delight.
Plan your visit, savor these savory treats, and make your trip to Amsterdam an unforgettable culinary journey.
FAQ About Croquettes
How Much Do Dutch Croquettes Typically Cost In Amsterdam?
The price of a Dutch croquette can vary depending on where you buy it, but you can expect to pay between €2 and €5 for a single croquette at snack bars or fast food places.
What Are The Most Typical Dutch Dishes I Should Try?
The Netherlands is known for hearty, comforting dishes. Must-try items include kroketten (deep-fried croquettes with meat ragout), bitterballen (small round meat croquettes), stroopwafels (thin waffles filled with caramel syrup), haring (raw herring with onions and pickles), patat (thick-cut fries usually served with mayonnaise), and poffertjes (fluffy mini pancakes with butter and powdered sugar).
In Exploring Amsterdam's Food Culture with Top Traditional Foods you can find one of the best travel guides about Dutch food in Amsterdam.
Are There Vegetarian And Vegan Options Available For Croquettes In Amsterdam?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available for croquettes in Amsterdam. Places like Heertje Friet offer vegan croquettes, and other venues such as Vegan Junk Food Bar and Soil Vegan Cafe also provide various vegan bitterballen and croquette options.
What Is The Significance Of National Croquette Day In The Netherlands, And How Is It Celebrated?
National Croquette Day, celebrated on October 9th in the Netherlands, honors the beloved Dutch snack, the croquette. It was introduced in 2014 to commemorate culinary journalist Johannes van Dam's birthday. The day is marked by restaurants, snack bars, and supermarkets offering special croquette menus, discounts, and creative variations.
Food enthusiasts, chefs, and families celebrate by indulging in traditional and innovative croquettes, highlighting the snack's cultural significance and versatility in Dutch cuisine.