Amsterdam's Organic Markets
Where to Go for Healthy Food and Local Produce in the Dutch Capital
Jan 7, 2009
Interest in healthy eating, better promotion of good-quality, local Dutch produce and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of ‘food miles’ mean Amsterdam has seen the number of organic markets increase significantly in recent years. All the markets listed below are worth visiting for different reasons and offer the opportunity to sample local delicacies or find culinary gifts to take home.
The accessible nature of Amsterdam markets means that shopping at them can be an enjoyable and sociable experience, very different from a supermarket. The majority of the stalls are run by the producers themselves and they are usually happy – although this does depend a little on how many other people are waiting in line – to strike up a conversation or give buying advice.
Another feature that makes Dutch markets so nice to visit is the fact that many things can be sampled. Want to know what the difference is between a Dutch jong belegen and extra belegen cheese? Ask for a couple of slices. Or can’t decide whether to buy apple cake or chocolate brownies – or both? Try them first, then make a decision.
There are currently three organic markets in Amsterdam, and these are scattered across the city. All the markets are outside, so dress warmly in bad weather.
Noordermarkt Organic Farmers’ Market
The Organic Farmers’ Market, which sets up on the Noordermarkt (North Market) in the Jordaan district, first opened in 1987 and is by far the oldest and best-established of the three markets. The tightly packed stalls sell everything from rustic breads, cheeses, meats and vegetables to herbs, honey, cakes and fresh juices. One end of the market is reserved for non-food items such as essential oils, natural clothing and jewelry.
The market can get very busy and is also the most expensive of the three. It is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Nieuwmarkt Organic Farmers’ Market
Located on the Nieuwmarkt (New Market) in the Old Centre, Amsterdam’s second organic market sells a similar range of fresh produce to the Noordermarkt (there is a very small selection of non-food items), as well as grains, pulses and teas. However, this market is smaller, quieter and cheaper, making shopping here slightly less crowded and hectic.
The Nieuwmarkt’s most eye-catching stall is the bright pink Raspberry Maxx. As the name suggests, this stall sells everything that can be made from raspberries, including jams, juices, salad dressings, sauces, teas and candies. All the raspberries are grown organically in the south of Holland and the funky packaging makes the products unusual gift items to take home.
Like the Noordermarkt, this market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Culinary Farmers’ Market
The newest addition to Amsterdam’s market scene is the Culinary Farmers’ Market, which sets up on Haarlemmerplein in the Centre. In contrast to the other two markets, this market is open on Wednesdays. This is ideal for anyone visiting Amsterdam during the week, or those who are out of organic products and cannot wait until the following weekend to restock.
A small market of around 10 stalls, there is nonetheless enough here to whet the appetite in the form of smoked eels (the stallholder even brings his round smoking oven with him), wild turkey and game (in season), as well as fruit, vegetables, olives, cheese and baked goods.
Open every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Looking for more food-related things to do in Amsterdam? Find recommendations for the best three lunch spots here and a review of the quirky Coffee and Jazz restaurant here.
 |
