Amsterdam Eats. A history in dishes

Dishes

This exhibition on Amsterdam’s food culture puts dishes at the center—ranging from everyday meals to haute cuisine, from delicacies to medicinal foods. Each dish is highlighted alongside a cookbook from the Allard Pierson’s collection, complemented by objects and recipes. Among the highlights are the only known copy of Amsterdam’s oldest cookbook from 1617 and a unique Portuguese-Jewish recipe manuscript from around 1800.

Who ate what

The exhibition not only showcases what is eaten but also by whom, when, and where. Prints and maps show how markets and dining establishments in different parts of the city evolved over the centuries. French influences brought upscale restaurants in the 18th century, followed later by migrant kitchens, sandwich stores and snack bars. Amsterdam has always been a hotspot for new types of food, sometimes leading to lengthy queues outside.

Trends

The exhibition also considers the role of nutrition and food (and food habits) in Amsterdam today as well as challenges in the future. Chefs and other experts have been invited to comment on various dishes and themes, each from their own field of expertise. It turns out that new trends like seasonal food, vegetarianism and exchanging recipes are anything but novelties.

Amsterdammers eating together

In collaboration with seven ambassadors from all Amsterdam’s boroughs, the Allard Pierson is developing a presentation on the diversity of food cultures in the city. Guided by visual artist Malou Sumah, the participants share their personal stories about favourite dishes, table customs and traditions around the dinner table. These stories will be integrated into a collective textile work, which grows with contributions from visitors and symbolizes Amsterdam's food culture today.