Vegan in Amsterdam
Places
Vegan in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of the easier places in the Netherlands to eat plant-based. Roughly 300 vegan or vegan-friendly venues are listed across the city, and the national share of people eating fully plant-based sits near 3.5%. That combination means you rarely need a dedicated vegan restaurant — most ordinary menus now carry at least one plant-based main, and staff are used to the question.
Where to look
- De Pijp
- Jordaan
- Oost
What to order
- tempeh
- tofu
How to eat vegan in Amsterdam
- Start with cuisines that are plant-based by default — South Asian, Levantine, Ethiopian and East Asian menus usually have several naturally vegan mains.
- Learn one sentence in the local language: no meat, no dairy, no egg. It resolves nearly every ordering problem in one go.
- Keep a fallback in your pocket: a supermarket meal deal, a falafel counter, or a bakery with a bean-filled pastry. Hunger, not ethics, is what breaks most trips.
In depth
The longer answer
Amsterdam's plant-based scene has exploded in recent years, driven by a progressive, environmentally conscious population and a strong tradition of international cuisine. The city's compact size and bike-friendly infrastructure make exploring its vegan offerings easy. From dedicated vegan supermarkets to entirely plant-based restaurants, Amsterdam offers a diverse and accessible experience for anyone seeking delicious, ethical food.
The heart of the scene lies in neighborhoods like De Pijp, Jordaan, and Oost, each offering a unique vibe. Expect to find everything from Dutch classics like vegan bitterballen and kroketten to Indonesian rijsttafel, Ethiopian stews, and innovative burgers. Prices vary; a casual lunch might cost €10-15, while a multi-course dinner can be €30-50. Many places offer affordable lunch deals.
Navigating Amsterdam is straightforward. Most menus are in English, and staff are generally helpful. For ordering, simply say 'Ik ben veganist' (I am vegan) or look for the 'V' symbol. Supermarkets like Albert Heijn and Jumbo have extensive plant-based sections, including own-brand cheeses and meats. The city is best explored by bike or tram; walking is also pleasant. Many apps list vegan-friendly spots.
At a glance
Quick facts
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Vegan restaurants | Over 50 fully plant-based |
| Typical lunch cost | €10 to €15 |
| Best supermarket chain | Albert Heijn for vegan |
| Iconic vegan dish | Bitterballen with mustard |
In practice
What this means for you
- Check out the vegan market at Foodhallen for diverse street food options.
- Use the HappyCow app to find nearby vegan restaurants and read reviews.
- Try a vegan Dutch pancake at a dedicated pancake house for a local treat.
- Book ahead for popular dinner spots, especially on weekends.
FAQ
Common questions
Is it easy to find vegan food in Amsterdam?
What are the best vegan-friendly neighborhoods in Amsterdam?
Are there vegan versions of traditional Dutch food?
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