11 Dutch foods you need to try in Utrecht

By Robin — January 13th, 2026

Sweet treats and pastries

The Dutch have a serious sweet tooth, and Utrecht has its own unique contributions to the national pastry tray.

Stroopwafels: Two thin waffles held together by a layer of gooey caramel syrup. For the best experience, buy them warm and fresh from a stand at the Vredenburg market.

Domtorentjes: A local Utrecht specialty! These are rich dark chocolates filled with a creamy cacao filling, shaped like the city's iconic Dom Tower.

Poffertjes: Tiny, fluffy buckwheat pancakes served with a generous knob of butter and a mountain of powdered sugar. They are a staple at local festivals and dedicated pancake houses.

Appeltaart: Dutch apple pie is deep-dish, packed with cinnamon-spiced apples and raisins, and always served with a massive dollop of slagroom (whipped cream).

Savory snacks and street food

Perfect for a borrel (afternoon drinks) or a quick bite while walking along the Oudegracht.

Bitterballen: Deep-fried, breaded balls filled with a thick meat ragout. These are the ultimate Dutch pub snack, best enjoyed with a side of sharp mustard and a local craft beer.

Haring (Herring): A traditional raw fish snack often served with onions and pickles. If you want to eat it the traditional way, hold it by the tail and lower it into your mouth!

Kibbeling: Battered and deep-fried chunks of white fish (usually cod) served with a dipping sauce like remoulade or garlic sauce.

Friet (Fries): Don't call them "French fries", Dutch fries are thicker and traditionally served in a paper cone with a wide variety of toppings, the most classic being mayonnaise.

Traditional comfort meals

If you’re looking for a full dinner that tastes like a Dutch grandmother’s cooking, look for these classics.

Stamppot: A mash of potatoes and vegetables (like kale, carrots, or sauerkraut) usually served with a large smoked sausage (rookworst) and a pool of gravy.

Erwtensoep (Snert): A thick, split pea soup so hearty that a spoon should be able to stand up straight in it. It’s filled with pork, leeks, and celery, often served with rye bread.

Pannenkoeken: Dutch pancakes are much larger and thinner than American ones. They can be savory (topped with bacon and cheese) or sweet (with syrup and fruit).

Where to find them in Utrecht

To get the most authentic taste, we recommend these specific locations:

The Vredenburg Market: Visit on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday for fresh stroopwafels, haring, and various cheeses.

Theo Blom: The historic bakery where you must go to find the original Domtorentjes.

Manneken Pis: Located right near the Central Station, it's consistently voted one of the best spots in the country for Dutch fries.

The Pancake Bakery (Pannekoekenboerderij de Muntkelder): Look for any of the traditional pancake houses situated in the canal-side cellars for a cozy, authentic atmosphere.