6 Best Cheap Eats in Amsterdam

Travelling on a budget in Amsterdam and wanna know where to fill up on the city’s tastiest food that won’t break the bank? Amsterdam has a decent dining scene, however not everywhere serves up delicious AND affordable food in the city unless you know where to look. From traditional bites to big, juicy burgers, if you’re after affordable places to eat in Amsterdam then we’re here for ya for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Treat your tastebuds and check out these cheap eats in Amsterdam next time you’re out exploring our hometown.

For cheap accommodation in Amsterdam, check out the Flying Pig

For traditional Dutch cuisine:

It may not look like the kind of plate of food you’ll want to dive right into, but leaving Amsterdam without trying some local raw herring is criminal, so make your first taste one of the best. Rob Wigboldus Vishandel is one of the best places to buy herring in Amsterdam because it’s just so damn fresh and tasty. Look past this local eatery’s simple appearance, step inside and try the herring roll complete with pickle and onion for a bargain on-the-go lunch that’ll cost just €3! This is a classic Dutch sandwich full of flavour and freshness, and when it comes at that price I’m afraid you can’t say no.

For big, juicy burgers:

For burgers in the heart of Amsterdam that are delicious and won’t dent the wallet, Belushi’s is the place to go. This all-American sports bar serves up some of the juiciest burgers in the city, but it’s not just the 100% Irish Angus beef that makes this place a favourite amongst backpackers, locals and students. Also on the menu you’ll find wraps, salads, nachos and huge bar snacks - pretty much anything you might fancy after a day of touring Dam. It’s based right by the Red Light District in the main city centre, the ideal location for a decent (and seriously good value) refuel.

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For hearty but healthy:

Nothing beats a crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside jacket potato from Jacketz. For €10-12 you can get a huge jacket packed with flavoursome fillings, topped with whatever extra you fancy and drizzled in the perfect sauce. It may sound a little steeper in price than the rest on this list, but the amount of food you’ll get on your plate will have you rolling out of the restaurant. Go for a half jacket or full jacket, then choose your topping from any of the tasty meat, fish, vegetarian or vegan options, add extras, choose your sauce and voila - you’ve got the tastiest jacket potato you’ve ever had!

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For delicious dumplings:

For something slightly less casual than the others on this list, Bhatti Pasal’s Nepalese dishes will make every Asian food lover very happy. From pork filled momos (Nepalese dumplings, and the ones here are to die for) to big sharing plates of thali, the food served up here is authentic and seriously reasonably priced! Go with a group of friends and order a few things between you to share. If you’re not sure what to order, the friendly staff will be more than happy to give you a hand. The restaurant is only small so don’t expect to be able to sit down right away, just know that the food is well worth the wait!

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For the best meatballs in Amsterdam:

For a hearty and homely dinner that’s cheap and definitely cheerful, Mister Meatball hits the spot. Here at this tiny family-run restaurant there are only about 12 seats, but if you’re one of the lucky ones that gets a look in, then you’re in for a treat. It goes without saying that when you come to Mister Meatball, it’s meatballs that you’ve got to order. However one is plenty - they’re huge! We recommend the Mister Meatball combo deal which for just €10 you’ll get Grandma’s Meatball (arguably the best on the menu anyway) along with a famous mash mix and gravy, and it’s all homemade to perfection.

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For egg-cellent omelettes:

If you love eggs, this place is calling your name. Omelegg has earned its rep for serving up the best omelettes in Amsterdam and for good reason as they are out of this world. The list of different omelette flavour combinations is more than you could ever think of, and if you’re really not a fan of them (who are you?) then there are other options to suit you too. From gorgonzola and bacon with sun-dried tomatoes to chicken, pesto and mozzarella, every single one of the options are mouthwatering. The omelettes all come as huge portions and all cost under €10, served with salad and bread! For a great lunchtime option that’s also one of the best cheap eats in Amsterdam, Omelegg is egg-ceptional.

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Need a hostel in Amsterdam? Check out the Flying Pig

Article by Darcy King