Seemor

Pancakes Amsterdam at the IJBWorth Trying

Name: Pancakes Amsterdam at the IJ
Address: De Ruijterkade 35, 1012 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1012 AA Amsterdam
Rating: 4.4

De Ruijterkade 35, 1012 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands · Pancake restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Lunch restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (1174 reviews)

Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Waterfront pancake spot by Centraal with great views, friendly service most of the time, and reliably tasty Dutch, American pancakes, and poffertjes; expect queues at peak times and card-preferred payment.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Pancakes Amsterdam delivers solid casual dining with exceptional waterfront appeal and reliable pancake and poffertjes execution, making it a worthwhile stop near Centraal Station. However, service inconsistency during peak hours and operational constraints prevent grade A territory. The experience excels off-peak but shows strain when busy, positioning it as a competent neighborhood favorite rather than a destination restaurant.

Restaurant Summary

Steps from Centraal, this waterside room feels cozy and bustling with huge windows over the IJ and a steady flow of travelers. Many guests rave about warm, friendly service and quick plates off-peak, noting “perfect spot to watch the ferries” while tucking into sweet poffertjes. A few describe peak-hour delays and firmer policies, but most leave happy and full. The cooking leans classic rather than flashy: Dutch and American pancakes with thoughtful toppings, from bacon and cheese to goat cheese with apple and honey. Expect comfort-first flavors, crisp cheese edges, fluffy stacks, and poffertjes dusted in sugar or draped in chocolate. It suits casual brunchers and travelers who want good food with a view more than culinary theatrics. Families do well here. Kids gravitate to poffertjes, strawberries, and chocolate, and staff have even made off-menu scrambled eggs for little ones. Portions are generous, build-your-own options help picky eaters, and the menu includes allergy-friendly choices. Just plan around peak times if patience is limited.

At a Glance

Waterfront views and cozy setting by Centraal
Reliable, tasty Dutch and American pancakes plus poffertjes
Strong allergy menu with gluten, lactose, and vegan options
Peak-hour delays and occasional order mix-ups
Card-preferred and strict policies on water/split bills

What Sets It Apart

scenic_waterfront_views
broad_pancake_styles
allergy_menu_options

What People Love

Warm, kind staff interactions
Crispy-edged Dutch pancakes
Kid-pleasing poffertjes
Panorama of ferries on the IJ
Big, filling portions

Points of Concern

Busy times bring slower service; allow buffer if catching transport
Policy rigidity around tap water and separate bills reported by several diners
Some guests find pricing high for pancakes given the touristy location

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€28-40 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Choose one savory Dutch pancake plus a small poffertjes to share for variety
Add lemon and sugar or stroop to highlight classic Dutch flavors

Perfect For

Pre-train brunch with a view
Casual family breakfast
Sweet-tooth pancake cravings
Quick scenic bite near ferries

Location Insights

Area: Busy transit waterfront behind Centraal Station; tourist-heavy, scenic views of ferries and the IJ.

Safety: High foot traffic and lighting; occasional nuisance odors outdoors reported; generally safe central area.

Nearby: Next to ferries, bus terminal, A’DAM Lookout views; ideal for pre/post train snacks.

CentrumThe Centrum neighborhood is characterized by a lively urban atmosphere with a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It is a popular area for tourists due to its proximity to major attractions and transport hubs, offering diverse culinary experiences in a dynamic setting.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–17:00 Tuesday09:00–17:00 Wednesday09:00–17:00 Thursday09:00–17:00 Friday09:00–19:00 Saturday09:00–19:00 Sunday09:00–19:00

Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating

View full analysis on Seemor →