The best burger in Amsterdam: 5 tips from locals

Anyone who has ever been to Amsterdam knows that the Dutch capital has plenty of culinary delights to offer. No matter what sweet or savoury snack you’re looking for, you’re guaranteed to find it here. Amsterdam can also be described as a burger hotspot. Many visitors talk about their observations of the many burger shops here time and time again. However, we all know that quantity does not equal quality. The high number of shops can easily be explained by Amsterdam’s green history (aka mariuhana). Because if you smoke it, you get a craving for sweet & greasy things. It’s a real feast for all restaurant owners in the city centre who take advantage of this. But how do you find the best burger in Amsterdam and avoid falling into the overpriced tourist trap?

That’s what we’re here for! We also have a few foodies on our team who have tasted their way through the whole of Amsterdam so that you don’t have to. So here are the locals’ favourite burger restaurants – whether classic, veggie or vegan.

Pssst… For even more culinary insider tips, come along on a cultural food tour! Not only will you sample delicious Dutch specialities, but you’ll also get a real insight into the diversity of Amsterdam cuisine – a dream come true. 😊

The best burger in Amsterdam: our 5 favourites

1) Thrill Grill (De Pijp)

Of course, the trendy de Pijp neighbourhood also needs a proper burger. You can find one at the cosy Thrill Grill restaurant in the middle of Gerard Douplein. Thrill Grill is the place to go, especially for people looking for a really good classic. But they have also perfected more unusual creations. How about the delicious parmesan burger, for example, or an Asian-influenced kimchi burger? In addition to first-class burgers, Thrill Grill also offers great snacks. Try the vegan bitterballen or the mac ‘n cheese croquettes – you’ll only find them in the Netherlands!

2) Cannibale Royale (Centre / Noord/ Jordaan)

You get a truly special experience at Cannibale Royale. The name sounds rather special and perfectly reflects the interior concept. Cannibale Royale is super rustic, robust and cosy with lots of old-fashioned equipment that you can marvel at in the restaurant. In combination with this, the modern yet rustic food is a hit! Meat lovers will definitely find what they are looking for here. They are particularly famous for their steaks – and of course the delicious burgers! You can also choose from several delicious side dishes (classic fries, ceasar salad or savoury mac ‘n cheese?) and put together exactly the menu you have in mind. By the way: the cocktails there are also amazing! Just ask for advice on what goes best with your selection and enjoy a great evening.

3) Vegan Junk Food Bar (Centre / De Pijp)

If you’re looking for something unusual and eye-catching, you’ll find it in hipster heaven at the Vegan Junk Food Bar . It doesn’t get any more hipster than this vegan restaurant, which is a real treat, especially for aesthetics lovers. Of course, the city never sleeps when it comes to global trends and first-class vegan cuisine. The Vegan Junk Food Bar is THE spot in Amsterdam if you want to enjoy a really tasty burger. For vegans and non-vegans alike, because the burger is guaranteed to rival a classic. You don’t have to miss out on your delicious cheese, bacon or crispy chicken, because the VJFB has found the best vegan alternatives that are guaranteed not to leave you wanting for anything. Inside, the restaurant is very trendy, colourful and lively – a real Instagram favourite. Of course, you are also welcome there if social media is not your thing. The Vegan Junk Food Bar is for everyone.

4) Burgermeester (centre / Jordaan)

Of course, the favourite of the Amsterdammers should not be missing: Burgermeester. Back in 2007, they set themselves the task of creating an authentic, sustainable product that prioritises quality. This means that everything is homemade and only the best products are used. Incidentally, this burger restaurant is also dedicated to typical Dutch flavours.

You can try the Mokum Burger there, which is characterised by Amsterdam cheese, pickled cucumber and a coarse mustard. You can also find the beloved truffle burger here, because the people of Amsterdam love truffles in all variations – whether as truffle fries or on the burger. There is also something very special on the menu here: the mini burger trio. As the name suggests, you get 3 of the classics in a miniature version, which makes it even easier to try them out. The trio is also perfect if you are travelling with friends or family and just want a small snack in between.

5) The Butcher (centre/ Jordaan/ food halls)

If you simply like it good, classic and quick, The Butcher is the place for you. There’s no fuss here, just a good and snappy burger whenever you want it. And there are several locations: mainly in the city centre, but also in the food halls in the west of the city and in de Pijp, for example. The focus here is on putting a good product front and centre. You can get a good classic cheeseburger, but also a delicious lamb or crispy chicken burger, for example. The Butcher has also recently started working with the new meat alternative “Redefine Meat” and has developed an impressive vegan burger. This makes The Butcher a good option for groups with different diets.