You may have enjoyed a short stack (or two) but have you tried a pancake from the Netherlands? These pancakes are called pannenkoeken, or pannenkoek if you are talking about one of them. But after trying a Dutch pancake, you will probably want more than one! They are thinner than American pancakes but not quite as thin as a crepe. They can be eaten with sweet or savory items/fillings and can be enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack between meals.

So you can make some at home (click here for regular and gluten-free recipes), but of course the best Dutch pancakes can be found in the Netherlands. Let’s look at where to get the best pannenkoeken in Amsterdam.

One popular place is called De Carrousel (or The Carousel). At De Carrousel you can order from a list of over 45 varieties of pancakes (as well as other breakfast items). Whether you are in the mood for something sweet like syrup, nutella or banana-whipped cream, or something savory like bacon, cheese , or paprika-onions-mushrooms, they’ve got you covered. Also if you need gluten-free or vegan pannenkoeken, they will make them for you as well. (And yes, they are a celiac-friendly establishment.)

Another place to check out is aptly named Pancakes. They have 4 locations in Amsterdam (soon to be 6) so you’re bound to be near one when you visit the city. One of the locations is across from Central Station so it is a perfect place to stop on your way in or out of Amsterdam. Although their menu is not a long as De Carrousel’s, don’t let that fool you. They have many choices and they are willing to adapt if you don’t see exactly what you want on the menu. They also offer most of their Dutch pancakes in a gluten-free and/or lactose-free version.

If eating one giant pancake doesn’t appeal to you, then I encourage you to at least try poffertjes. These are small versions of pancakes typically eaten as a snack (your kids are bound to love them!) They can be found at many cafes across Amsterdam or at stalls during a festival (look for them at every Christmas market). They are traditionally served with melted butter and powdered sugar, although it is becoming more popular to have them drizzled with chocolate or Nutella. Yum.

Want even more pancakes? (Yes please!) Check out De Pannenkoekenboot for an all-you-can-eat-pancakes cruise along the IJ-river. This activity is popular with locals but is still pretty “off-the-beaten” path for American tourists. The cruise runs April to September on the weekends with occasional Wednesday or Friday departures. They also have a dinner version the second Saturday of the month in case you want pancakes for dinner (why not?!) This boat ride is good for families and they also cater to special diets as long as they know about the request at the time of booking.

When most people think of visiting Amsterdam, they think of the culture, the bikes, the windmills, the art, the cheese, and the tulips. But Dutch pancakes are very popular with the locals so it is a must-try when you are visiting. Let us help you plan your trip to Amsterdam so that you are sure to experience all the tourist and non-tourist parts of this beautiful city. Amsterdam is like my second home and I love helping experience this amazing city. Contact us today!

De Carrousel: H.M. van Randwijkplantsoen 1 - close to Museumplein - open daily

Pancakes - original location is in the Negen Straatjes - Berenstraat 38. Other locations at Centraal Station, on the River Ij (behind Centraal Station - views of river) or Westermarkt. Two more locations coming soon at Spui and Zuid. Open daily with varying hours by location.

De Pannenkoekenboot - The point of departure of the Pannenkoekenboot Amsterdam is Ms. van Riemsdijkweg in Amsterdam-North. The boat is located next to the ferry from Centraal Station (free and takes just a few minutes).