Jordaan Food Tour

An Honest Look at the Jordaan Food Tour in Amsterdam

If you’re thinking about exploring Amsterdam through its culinary scene, the Jordaan Food Tour might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on solid reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s a highly-rated experience that promises a taste of local flavors combined with a stroll through one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic Dutch foods—think cheese, herring, and apple pie—tied together with stories that add depth to the tasting experience. It’s clear that the guide’s knowledge and friendliness make a big difference, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. That said, a potential downside could be the price, which is around $154 per person. Depending on your budget and taste for food tours, it might feel like a splurge, but the quality of the experience seems to justify it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to taste Amsterdam and learn about its culture through food. If you’re a curious eater, enjoy walking neighborhoods with a story, and love trying local specialties in a relaxed setting, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also well-suited for those interested in small-group experiences, with a maximum of 10 travelers ensuring a more personalized atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch Cuisine: You’ll sample traditional foods like Dutch apple pie, cheeses, cured meats, herring, and Indonesian satay.
• Cultural Insights: Each food stop is selected not just for flavor but for its significance in Dutch culture.
• Local Guides: Expect friendly, knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about the neighborhood and its food.
• Small Group Setting: The tour limits to 10 people, making it intimate and engaging.
• Flexible Tastings: Includes snacks, drinks (wine, beer, soda, water), with tips for enjoying the flavors.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Noordermarkt, a lively spot with public transport access, and ends back at the same point.

What to Expect During the Tour

Starting Strong at Cafe Papeneiland

Right from the start, the tour sets a cozy tone with a slice of the famous Dutch apple pie. This isn’t just any apple pie—chunky apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crust make it a true Jordaan specialty. Paired with coffee or mint tea, it’s a comforting introduction to Dutch baking. The pie is described as a Jordaan delicacy, and many reviewers confirm it’s a must-try, with one noting, “Food culture in the Netherlands is unique!”

Cheeses at JWO Lekkernijen

The next stop is a cheese tasting that reveals just how passionate the Dutch are about their dairy. You’ll get to sample a variety of cheeses, including farm-fresh options, aged varieties, and cumin-flavored cheese, offering a broad look at the country’s cheese craftsmanship. Guests often comment on the quality, with one reviewer calling it “a full profile of Dutch cheese.” Since food is a big part of Dutch culture, this stop is both tasty and educational.

Meats at VOF Butchery Louman

At this family-run butchery, the focus shifts to cured and smoked sausages—another staple of Dutch cuisine. The history of this shop, in operation for over a century, adds a layer of authenticity. Guests enjoy seeing the traditional methods and savoring the flavorful meats, with one saying, “The Dutch love for flavorful meats is evident here.”

Dutch Fish: Herring and Kibbeling

No Dutch food tour would be complete without trying herring in the traditional way—raw, with onions and pickles. Many find it a surprisingly delicious and unique experience. The fried cod dish, kibbeling, offers a crunchy contrast, dipped in a tangy sauce. Reviewers mention these tasting stops as highlights, noting the authentic flavors and cultural significance.

Indonesian Satay and Cultural Fusion

Finally, the tour explores the Dutch colonial influence with Indonesian satay, served with peanut sauce. This diversity in flavors illustrates how Amsterdam’s food scene is shaped by global influences. Guests often find this stop a pleasant surprise, appreciating the opportunity to taste something different but still connected to local history.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At around $154.47 per person, the tour’s cost might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider what’s included—tastings of various foods, drinks like wine and beer, a knowledgeable guide, and the intimate group size—the value becomes clearer. You’re not just paying for the food; you’re paying for an experience that’s educational, immersive, and tailored to small groups.

Many reviewers have praised the quality of the guide and the authentic nature of the tastings. One describes the experience as “world-class,” emphasizing the well-organized nature and the unique Dutch food culture. So, if you’re a foodie or a curious traveler eager to understand Amsterdam’s culinary scene beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

The Group Experience and Logistics

The tour’s small size—max 10 travelers—means it’s never crowded, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention. The walking isn’t strenuous, and the stops are close together, making it accessible even for those who prefer a relaxed pace. The meeting point is at Noordermarkt, a lively market area, which is easy to reach via public transportation.

The duration is approximately three and a half hours, including walking time between spots. This pacing lets you enjoy each tasting without feeling rushed, and the different stops give you a well-rounded sampling of Jordaan’s culinary scene. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring or head to other parts of the city.

Authentic Reviews from Participants

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable and friendly guides, which really adds value to the experience. One said, “Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts about both the food and the local area,” which highlights how much the guide’s personality and insights elevate the tour.

Another reviewer called it “an amazing experience,” emphasizing the authentic Dutch foods like stroopwafels, herring, and cheese. They also appreciated the opportunity to explore the charming Jordaan neighborhood while sampling its best bites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy food, culture, and learning about local traditions in a relaxed setting. It’s not overly strenuous, making it suitable for most ages, but mostly geared toward those who want a culinary snapshot of Amsterdam’s Jordaan. If you’re into small-group experiences and love engaging guides, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s probably fine for older children or teens who are interested in trying new foods and listening to stories about the neighborhood. But, as always, consider the pace and your group’s interests.

The Sum Up

The Jordaan Food Tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Amsterdam’s culinary delights, woven into the charm of one of its most iconic neighborhoods. The combination of authentic local foods, a friendly guide, and an intimate group makes for an engaging experience that many reviewers have described as “well organized,” “delicious,” and “insightful.” It’s a fantastic choice for anyone eager to explore Amsterdam through its flavors and stories.

If you’re a curious traveler, a foodie, or someone who appreciates learning about a place through its cuisine, this tour can add a rich layer to your visit. While the price might make you pause, the overall experience appears to deliver good value—especially if you’re after an authentic, small-group adventure.

In summary, the Jordaan Food Tour is best suited for those who want to combine walking, tasting, and storytelling into one relaxed, enjoyable outing. It’s a fine way to get a taste of local life and Dutch traditions, making your trip to Amsterdam even more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Since the tour includes cured meats, herring, and Indonesian satay, it’s not ideal for vegetarians. You might find some options at certain stops, but the main focus is on traditional Dutch meats and fish.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about three hours and 30 minutes, including walking between stops. The tastings themselves are spaced out to keep it relaxed.

What’s included in the price?
You get food tastings such as Dutch apple pie, cheeses, meats, herring, and satay, plus drinks like wine, beer, soda, and water. Tips are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Noordermarkt 48 in Amsterdam and finishes back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day afterward.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it convenient to reach from different parts of the city.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most travelers book about a month in advance—around 33 days ahead on average—so last-minute bookings might be tricky but not impossible depending on availability.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for kids, older children who enjoy food and walking might find it interesting. There are no specific restrictions mentioned.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but no specific age restrictions are mentioned, so consider your group’s interest and stamina.

What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your plans before confirming.

If you’re in Amsterdam and eager to taste its local flavors with a friendly guide in a small group, this Jordaan Food Tour is likely to be a highlight—you’ll walk away with full bellies and a richer understanding of Dutch food traditions.