Breakfast is said to be the most important meal. Studies show eating in the morning can provide many benefits, including weight control and sharper thinking. According to American Institute for Cancer Research, food delivers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals and regulates your appetite. Breakfast prepares you for the rest of your day.

The Dutch breakfast is rather simple. Before school or work, some will grab a slice of bread, spread on butter, peanut butter or Nutella and top it off with sprinkles (hagelslag). Others prefer bread and cheese. Some eat yoghurt or fresh fruit. Fresh squeezed orange juice and coffee are frequent companions.

The Dutch enjoy a more extensive breakfast on the weekend. It is a mix and match of many cultures. For instance, they have their own equivalent of French Toast called wentelteefjes. Eggs are a popular choice, such as “uitsmijter” – a slice of bread, fried egg and meat – or an omelet. The aroma of fresh breads and croissants often fills the kitchen. One of the family favorites is the pancake. 

Amsterdam provides numerous options to wake up with a delicious meal. These restaurants offer a variety of creative combinations and diverse flavors. Try a typical Dutch breakfast at Koffiehuis de Hoek or enjoy a Dutch favorite at Pancakes! Savor one of the incredible fresh baked pastries at De Bakkerswinkel or order a Full English-style breakfast at Greenwoods. After eating at one of these amazing joints, you’ll feel energized and ready to start your day.

Cafe Letting

Café Letting is a cozy café nestled in the Jordaan, sure to satisfy all appetites. For those that are just looking for a little something to line the stomach, enjoy a boiled egg with toast or a fresh croissant with homemade jam. If you are absolutely famished, don’t worry; Café Letting will take good care of you. The stack of American pancakes with bacon and maple syrup, scrambled eggs with smoked halibut or an omelet jam-packed with ham, tomato and spring onion are a few of the options. All of Letting’s delightful breakfasts come with a freshly squeezed orange juice and your choice of tea or coffee. You can also order one of the other fresh juices and smoothies. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Cafe Letting caters to appetites of all sizes, big and small.

Jessica’s expert tip: Order one of the fresh juices or smoothies, and make sure to try the homemade jam.

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Little Collins

Little Collins, a cozy restaurant established as a tribute to Melbourne, is located in the multi-cultural De Pijp neighborhood. The restaurant boasts a delicious and diverse brunch menu. The menu includes pan-fried potato hash and coconut-coated French toast paired with lemon curd and baked apples. Maybe the sweet and sour pork belly with an Asian slaw, fried egg and crepe is more your thing. If you’re super hungry, order the “Carnivore’s.” Additionally, Little Collins offers four different variations of the Bloody Mary: the original, the virgin, the Tokyo and the Mexicana. They all have a spicy kick. The menu offers items to share, as well as a little something for a sweet finish. For those that want to visit later in the day, the restaurant also serves dinner and drinks.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Little Collins offers creative brunch combinations and serves four different yet delicious variations of Bloody Marys.

Jessica’s expert tip: Try one of their Bloody Marys: the original, the virgin, the Tokyo or the Mexicana.

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Koffiehuis De Hoek

Photo courtesy of Jessica Lipowski

Koffiehuis De Hoek, a name that literally translates to “coffee house the corner” in English, is located at the corner of the Prinsengracht and the Reestraat. De Hoek, a favorite of locals, businessmen and tourists alike, is a lovely little cafe to wake up with a warm cup of coffee, eat a typical Dutch breakfast and watch the world pass by. Make your choice from a diverse selection, including broodjes (sandwiches), uitsmijters (open-faced sandwiches with a fried egg), hearty omelets and Dutch pancakes. Be sure to save some room; you’ll definitely want to try a slice of their fresh-baked apple pie.

Recommended for Breakfast because: De Hoek offers a typical Dutch breakfast. The café is perfect for residents and tourists alike looking for a cozy place to start their day.

Jessica’s expert tip: Definitely try a slice of the fresh-baked apple pie.

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Pancakes! Amsterdam

Pancakes! Amsterdam is the best bet if you are in the mood for a pancake breakfast. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly joint or just want to enjoy a meal with a friend, you’ve come to the right place. The menu boasts every type of pancake imaginable. You will find traditional Dutch pancakes, such as those with bacon, apple or cheese, but also other recipes from around the world – the fluffy American-style pancake, the mücver from Turkey and the Russian Blini. You can even choose your own ingredients – mix and match to create the perfect pancake. The restaurant uses some local ingredients. For instance, the flour comes from de Eersteling windmill in Hoofddorp, while the apple juice from the Appeleare in Zeeland. Reservations are not possible, so you may find a wait if it’s busy.

Recommended for Breakfast because: The menu has every type of pancake imaginable. Everyone at the table will be satisfied with the variety.

Jessica’s expert tip: The Dutch prefer more hearty pancakes, for instance with bacon or cheese

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Greenwoods

Head over to Greenwoods for a delicious English-style breakfast and delightful cup of tea. Enter through the vibrant red doors and discover a charming café complete with wooden accents and fragrant flowers. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, so you will instantly feel at home. If you’re hungry, order the Full English breakfast. You can also try the Eggs Benedict, Eggs Florentine or scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and fresh dill. End your meal with one of Greenwood’s sweet treats. As Greenwood’s is a tearoom with quite an assortment of loose-leaf teas, make sure to order a pot. Not an early riser? You can order breakfast all day. If the weather permits, grab a seat on the terrace or have Greenwoods pack you a picnic to enjoy in one of Amsterdam’s beautiful parks.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Greenwoods is the best English tearoom in town and serves breakfast all day.

Jessica’s expert tip: Order a pot of the loose-leaf tea. Greenwoods offers quite the assortment.

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De Bakkerswinkel

Start your morning right by enjoying a mouthwatering breakfast at the Bakkerswinkel. The Bakkerswinkel, translated to The Bakery in English, is a cozy café that will make you feel welcome the second you step inside. The aroma of baked goods fills the air. Rustic wooden tables are neatly arranged around the room. The space is brightened with beautiful fragrant flowers. Visitors can choose from one of the many delicious items on the menu or just stop by for a scone and some tea. Do you have a bit of a sweet tooth? The Bakkerswinkel offers an assortment of incredible pastries and cakes, too. There are three different locations in Amsterdam, and each one has its own personality and charm. Find the one closest to you and make yourself at home.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Bakkerswinkel offers delicious fresh-baked goods. The staff is friendly, and the décor exudes a cozy vibe.

Jessica’s expert tip: The scones are excellent. Ask for one or two to go. Don’t forget to order the homemade jam.

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Scandinavian Embassy

Scandinavian Embassy, nestled in De Pijp right across from the Sarphatipark, is the perfect peaceful place to jumpstart your day. This hole-in-the-wall café boasts terrific, flavorful coffee. Nicolas, the 2013 Brewers Cup Champion of Sweden, knows how to do it right. Rikard, the Head Chef who has had an interest in food his entire life, serves incredible Scandinavian fare, focusing on fresh, healthy ingredients. One of his most popular dishes is the gravlax. Grab a seat at the counter and get to know the owners or secure a spot by the window and watch people pass by. Don’t forget to say hello to Java the dog. She will give you a warm welcome.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Scandinavian Embassy specializes in fantastic, fresh Nordic cuisine and flavorful coffee in a rustic, laid-back atmosphere.

Jessica’s expert tip: Make sure to try the drip coffee.

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Omelegg

Omelegg’s main focus is eggs, specifically omelets. This charming restaurant with a countryside vibe creates a variety of delicious, sometimes creative omelet combinations, everything from slightly sweet to hearty. Do not forget to complement your choice with a warm cup of Catunambu coffee or fresh juice. Stop by with friends and family for brunch, or relax at the large reading table in the back with a good book. Perhaps you want to catch up on emails while you eat; the restaurant also offers free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by green plants and natural wood elements, you will feel right at home. While Omelegg does not accept reservations, tables turn over quite quick so you should not have to wait long. Come hungry and leave full yet satisfied.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Omelegg serves delicious omelet combinations in a cozy country-meets-city atmosphere.

Jessica’s expert tip: Try the omelet with dates, honey and walnuts.

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Bakers & Roasters

Bakers & Roasters is all about tasty brunch fare. Julian, who is from New Zealand, and Sergio, originally from Brazil, help you ease into the day with a fresh cup of coffee and hearty Kiwi breakfast. They serve a variety of dishes, everything from eggs and granola to pancakes and Kiwi-style pies. The kitchen is completely open, so you can watch the cooks hard at work. Pair your selection with a flat white or cup of tea. Perhaps you prefer an alcoholic beverage such as a Bloody Mary, Mimosa or G&T. Go ahead. Indulge. Bakers & Roasters does not accept reservations, but you can grab a drink (alcoholic or otherwise) while you wait.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Bakers & Roasters, situated in De Pijp, offers delicious Kiwi Brekkie (a.k.a. breakfast) in a warm, welcoming environment.

Jessica’s expert tip: Finish the meal with a sweet treat. Bakers & Roasters always has a variety of delicious freshly baked goods.

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Gartine

Photo courtesy of Willem-jan Hendriks

Gartine is the perfect retreat for a quiet, delicious breakfast with family or friends. This cute little restaurant is one you may easily miss, as it is tucked away in a small alley just off of one of Amsterdam’s main streets. Gartine produces vegetables, fruits and herbs in its own garden and makes sure to use organic eggs. Try the French Toast with maple syrup or the sourdough bread with scrambled eggs and fresh herbs. If you are craving something sweet, you will want to try one of the homemade cakes or pastries. Reservations are highly recommended, as the place is small and always packed.

Recommended for Breakfast because: Gartine grows the fruits, vegetables and herbs in their garden. They also use organic eggs.

Jessica’s expert tip: Reservations are highly recommended. The place is popular, so it is always busy.

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