Haring, the dutch fish tradition. A local delicacy described most easily as dutch sushi / sashimi. Yes, we eat them raw, and with unions and pickles if you like. The dutch have endless discussion about the best spot the get them. We talk about freshness (most important!) big, small, the right fat percentage, is it cleaned properly, etc. And although, with no doubt a lot of ‘Amsterdammers‘ would give you a different list, this is my list. Best Haring carts in town:
- Raadhuisstraat / Singel – On the corner of the Raadhuisstraat, a 2 minute walk off of Dam square is the number one. Old guy who servers top quality only. Don’t let the appearance of the chart mislead you. The Haring is definitely better then the state the chart and owner are in.
- Utrechtsestraat / Keizersgracht – Very happy ‘haring-guy’ nice, clean quality with a smile. Officially the chart is on the corner of the Utrechtsestraat en de Herengracht. But he’s temporarily moved because of road work in the street.
- Museumplein – My dads favorite. I find it good but often to crowded with tourists – nothing wrong with that but you guys make the owner grumpy. Good haring, grumpy guy.
- Zeekasteel (on the Middenweg) – An other good haring / grumpy guy place. Nothing wrong with the quality but way off out of the center.
- Coentunnelweg – Actually this place is stiff competition for the number one. At least quality wise. Only problem; you can (hardly) only reach it by car.
If it sort of freaks you out and you’re in doubt whether you want to taste it, take a “broodje haring”. A Haring on a bread roll. Much easier for the less trained raw fish eaters amongst us.
