Van der Linde

Van der Linde is one of Amsterdam’s simplest and most beloved food institutions. This tiny traditional pastry shop on the Nieuwendijk has existed since 1937 and has become famous for doing one thing exceptionally well: serving its unique homemade cream ice cream.

Unlike modern ice-cream shops offering dozens of flavours, toppings and sauces, Van der Linde serves only one variety. The pale vanilla cream ice cream has an unusually light and airy texture, sitting somewhere between traditional ice cream, soft serve and frozen whipped cream.

The shop itself is narrow, traditional and designed for takeaway. A queue regularly forms along the Nieuwendijk, even when the weather is cold, but service is direct and generally very quick. Locals who first visited with their parents or grandparents continue to return decades later.

Van der Linde is officially a banketbakkerij, or traditional Dutch pastry shop. Beyond the famous ice cream, the counter contains chocolate truffles, mergpijpjes, meringue cakes and other handmade confectionery. Nevertheless, almost everyone standing in line is there for the ice cream.

Van der Linde is cash only, so bring coins or a small banknote. Do not be discouraged by the queue: customers only need to select a cone or cup and choose the size, so it usually moves quickly.

Opening days are limited and can occasionally change. Check the current hours before making a special journey.