Meal Plans, Dining Options, and Dietary Restrictions
In the Netherlands, international students have a plethora of dining options to suit their preferences and budgets. Universities often offer meal plans, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in their dining halls, making it convenient to enjoy balanced and affordable meals. Dutch dining culture embraces a variety of international cuisines, and local cafes and restaurants offer a global culinary journey. Whether you're craving Dutch delights like pancakes or Indonesian rijsttafel, or exploring international flavors, you'll find something to tantalize your taste buds. Street food stalls offer delectable local snacks, and if you prefer to cook, supermarkets and shared kitchens in student accommodations provide the necessary resources. With student discounts and themed dining events, the Netherlands ensures that students can savor a diverse and delicious array of culinary experiences during their studies.
Day to Day Meal Plans
Find out what it is like to be a typisch Nederlander (typical Dutchie) and what kind of meals are had for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Breakfast
Breakfast in the Netherlands is frequently simple and healthful. It usually consists of bread, cheese, cold meats and spreads like jam, honey or chocolate sprinkles known as 'hagelslag'. Dutch bread comes in a variety of flavours, from hearty whole grain to crusty white. You'll also find yoghurt or muesli, as well as fruit such as apples or bananas. Try "beschuit," a sort of crisp rusk commonly topped with butter and a sweet topping, for a more traditional Dutch breakfast. Breakfast in the Netherlands sets the tone for the day, and while there are numerous options, this morning meal is typically simple yet filling, giving it an ideal start to your student life in the country.
Lunch
Lunch in the Netherlands is a delectable and filling occasion. Dutch lunches are often open-faced sandwiches called 'broodjes', which are imaginatively topped with a variety of components such as cheese, cold cuts, herring or even sweet spreads such as chocolate sprinkles. You can have a cup of soup, a salad, or a warm croquette to go with these sandwiches. When dining at local cafés and restaurants, you'll also find a variety of international alternatives, ranging from Mediterranean to Asian food. The Dutch take lunch seriously, and this midday meal is not just a culinary joy but also a cultural experience, combining Dutch customs with worldwide flavours.Lunch in the Netherlands is a delectable and filling occasion. Dutch lunches are often open-faced sandwiches called 'broodjes', which are imaginatively topped with a variety of components such as cheese, cold cuts, herring or even sweet spreads such as chocolate sprinkles. You can have a cup of soup, a salad, or a warm croquette to go with these sandwiches. When dining at local cafés and restaurants, you'll also find a variety of international alternatives, ranging from Mediterranean to Asian food. The Dutch take lunch seriously, and this midday meal is not just a culinary joy but also a cultural experience, combining Dutch customs with worldwide flavours.
Dinner
Dinner in the Netherlands is a casual and social occasion. Dinners in the Netherlands are frequently balanced and hearty, but they are not as complex as lunches. Stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), erwtensoep (pea soup), and a range of meat and fish meals are available. With a variety of ethnic food easily available, dining out may be a pleasurable experience. Quality over quantity is important in Dutch dining culture, and it's not uncommon to spend an evening meal with family or friends at a neighbourhood restaurant. While the Dutch eat rather early, around 6 or 7 p.m., international students can customise their meal schedules to their interests. To truly immerse yourself in Dutch culture, enjoy Dutch specialties such as Dutch pancakes or Dutch-Indonesian rijsttafel.
International Flavours
Expand your palette by trying out these different cuisines which are also very prominent and present in The Netherlands.
Indonesian Cuisine
Savour the flavours of the former Dutch colony with Indonesian rijsttafel, a multi-course feast comprised of small dishes.
Surinames and Caribbean
Try Surinamese and Caribbean delicacies like roti, bami, and saoto soup at local restaurants.
Global Fast Food
International fast-food franchises and street food stalls provide a variety of quick and economical dining options.
Dutch Classics
The Netherlands has a diverse dining scene with options to suit every taste and budget. You'll find everything from exotic cuisines to traditional Dutch delicacies.
Pannenkoekenhuizen
Try Dutch pancakes, both sweet and savoury, at these cosy pancake houses. These are ideal for a tasty and inexpensive meal.
Haring Stands
Haring, a classic Dutch raw herring delicacy, is offered from street vendors for the adventurous eater.
Patat (Dutch Fries)
Thick-cut Dutch fries with a variety of toppings and sauces are available at local "frietkoten."
Special Dietary Restrictions, Discounts, and Budget Suggestions
Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly
The Netherlands is well-known for its vegetarian and vegan offerings, with dedicated restaurants and menu selections catering to a variety of dietary needs. Plant-based treats can be found at Vegabond, the Dutch Weed Burger Joint, and DopHert.
Allergies and Special Diets
Dutch restaurants and cafes are accommodating if you have allergies or certain dietary requirements. Simply advise your server of your dietary restrictions, and they will often have adequate selections or make changes to the dishes.
Student Discounts
Many restaurants, especially in university cities, offer student discounts, so enquire about special specials when dining out. Some fast-food restaurants also offer student discounts.
Other Options
You may prefer the ease of ordering food to your lodging from time to time. Food delivery services such as Thuisbezorgd.nl (Takeaway.com) and Uber Eats are popular in the Netherlands and provide a variety of options for a nice dinner at home.
If you prefer something fresh then look for fresh food and regional delicacies at local markets. Try the cheeses, stroopwafels, and artisanal bread from the Netherlands.
Budget Suggestions
A variety of educational institutions feature student cafeterias that serve inexpensive meals. Additionally, some restaurants frequently provide daily specials that provide a cost-effective way to enjoy a lunch out. Lastly, lunch menus are typically less expensive than supper menus, making it an ideal time to dine out.