Summary
Surinamese Cuisine Overview
Visitors to Amsterdam are often surprised at the Surinamese presence in the city. After all, the South American country has a population of about 600,000, and its cuisine remains a mystery to most international travelers.
Dozens of Surinamese restaurants dot the city map, thanks to the large Surinamese population who call the Netherlands home. Their cuisine, which is difficult to find in the rest of the world, has become a veritable attraction in Amsterdam, and one that countless visitors relish.
Surinamese cuisine is a complex combination of multiple cultures due to nearly the entire population of Suriname originating from other countries. The cultures typically represented in Surinamese cuisine include African, East Indian, Indonesian, Chinese, Dutch, Jewish, and Portuguese influences.
While all the recommendations below (save for Kam Yin) are located in Amsterdam East, you can pair them with trips to the Albert Cuyp Market or Tropenmuseum for a well-rounded itinerary, along with a full stomach.
Warung Spang Makandra
Address: Gerard Doustraat 33, 1072 VK Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Phone: +31 20 670 5081
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This renowned Javanese-Surinamese institution has stood just outside the hubbub of the nearby Albert Cuypstraat for more than 30 years. Their typically Surinamese broodjes (sandwiches) reflect a broad culinary spectrum, from Creole pom (a meat-flecked tuber casserole) to Javanese (Indonesian) tempeh (fermented soy cakes). Their main dishes, served with rice, roti or noodles, as well as their nearly bottomless soups, are among the best values for dinner in town.
Roopram Roti
Address: Van Woustraat 37, 1074 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Phone: +31 20 471 0400
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A well-established Surinamese company from Paramaribo, Roopram Roti made its Dutch debut in Rotterdam, soon followed by a branch in Amsterdam. Known for offering the best roti in town—a soft, unleavened flatbread akin to flour tortillas—customers appear undeterred by the queues or somewhat off-the-beaten-path location. The dishes served are authentically crafted, delivering such a quality meal that you will feel transported to Suriname itself.
Kam Yin
Address: Kam Yin Centrum, Warmoesstraat 6, 1012 JD Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Phone: +31 20 625 3115
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This Chinese-Surinamese hybrid is hailed as the best of its kind; even The New York Times has praised Kam Yin’s extensive menu and stellar dishes. From Indian roti to Chinese chop suey, diners can enjoy a variety of choices at rock-bottom prices. Conveniently located on central Warmoesstraat and open until late, it’s an ideal stop for a meal before (or after) exploring the city.
Eethuis Marlon
Address: Eerste van der Helststraat 55hs, 1073 AD Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Phone: +31 20 671 1526
Should Amsterdam ever hold a competition for the best saoto ajam (traditional Javanese chicken soup), Eethuis Marlon would undoubtedly take the crown. The soup attracts numerous diners from both Surinamese and Indonesian backgrounds, along with locals in the know. Situated between Albert Cuypstraat and Sarphatipark, this corner eatery boasts a charming street-side terrace and indoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy their soup irrespective of the weather.
Surinamese Restaurants Outside Amsterdam
While there’s ample delicious Surinamese food to be found in Amsterdam, The Hague is renowned across the country for its Surinamese culinary offerings. Therefore, it’s certainly worth the hourlong drive from Amsterdam to discover all that this lesser-known city has to offer.
One of the top establishments is New Meyva, a small cafeteria-like eatery located just a few steps from the Grote Markt (Great Market) in the historic center.
Consequently, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s other attractions while you’re in the area, from world-class museums and cultural sites to seasonal events and numerous excellent non-Surinamese restaurants.
