When you think of Amsterdam, a city known for its picturesque canals and historic charm, you might not immediately associate it with one of the world’s most beloved comfort foods—french fries. However, the Dutch capital has a mouthwatering surprise waiting for you around every corner: Amsterdam’s famous fries, or “friet” as the locals affectionately call them. In this post, we’ll delve into why these fries have become an international sensation, and we’ll guide you to some of the best spots to savor them.
The Story Behind Amsterdam’s Iconic Fries
Amsterdam’s love affair with fries goes back decades, but what sets their “friet” apart from the ordinary is their commitment to quality and tradition. These aren’t just any fries; they’re thick-cut, golden, and crispy on the outside, with a soft, fluffy interior—a combination that’s practically irresistible.
Secrets to Perfection: The Double Frying Method
The secret to Amsterdam’s famous fries lies in their cooking process. The potatoes are first blanched at a lower temperature to soften them, and then they’re fried again at a higher temperature to achieve that coveted crispiness. This double frying method is a labor of love that ensures each fry is a delectable masterpiece.
A World of Toppings: Diverse and Delicious
What truly sets Amsterdam’s fries apart is the incredible array of toppings and sauces you can choose from. While traditionalists may opt for classic mayonnaise or ketchup, the adventurous can dive into a world of flavors with toppings like peanut sauce, satay, and even a Dutch-Indonesian creation known as “Patatje Oorlog” (War Fries) which combines peanut sauce, mayo, and onions.
Where to Find the Best Fries in Amsterdam
Now that you’re ready to embark on your fry adventure, let’s explore some of the top spots in Amsterdam to sample these delectable delights. Each of these places has its unique charm and style, and you’ll find their fries consistently highly rated by both locals and tourists:
1. Vleminckx de Sausmeester:
- Address: Voetboogstraat 33, 1012 XK Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €3 for a cone with sauce
2. Manneken Pis:
- Address: Damrak 41, 1012 LK Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €3.50 for a cone with sauce
3. Friterie Tjommies:
- Address: De Clercqstraat 56, 1052 NK Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €3.50 for a cone with sauce
4. Frites Atelier Amsterdam:
- Address: Runstraat 22, 1016 GK Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €4.75 for a cone with sauce
5. Pomms’
- Address: Nieuwendijk 67, 1012 MC Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €4.75 for a cone with sauce
6. De Belg: (Known for their “kapsalon” fries with toppings)
- Address: Voetboogstraat 4, 1012 XL Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €6 for a cone with sauce
7. Par Hasard: (A traditional Dutch “snackbar” with a modern twist)
- Address: Ceintuurbaan 113, 1072 EZ Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €3.50 for a cone with sauce
8. Frietsteeg:
- Address: Heisteeg 3, 1012 WC Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €3.50 for a cone with sauce
9. Frietboutique:
- Address: Johannes Verhulststraat 107 H, 1071 NL Amsterdam
- Price: Starting from €4.50 for a cone with sauce
10. Frietwinkel: – Address: Eerste Sweelinckstraat 18 H, 1073 CM Amsterdam – Price: Starting from €3.50 for a cone with sauce
The Price of Perfection: What to Expect
As for the cost of Amsterdam’s famous fries, you’ll find that they are quite affordable, even at the most famous fry shops in the city. A cone of fries with sauce generally starts at around €3 to €4, depending on the size and the complexity of your chosen toppings. The larger, more elaborate servings may go up to €7 or €8, but they are well worth the splurge for the gastronomic experience they offer.
In Conclusion: A Dutch Delight Worth Savoring
Amsterdam’s famous fries are more than just a snack; they’re an art form, a cultural experience, and a testament to the city’s culinary prowess. As you embark on your journey to discover the best fry shops in Amsterdam, remember that it’s not just about the fries themselves, but the creativity, history, and culture that each bite encapsulates. So, the next time you find yourself in this enchanting city, be sure to savor a cone of Amsterdam’s famous fries and dive into a world of flavor that has captured the hearts of many around the globe.
To the winner, the potatoes!
Machado de Assis