Breadwinner Amsterdam: Your Ultimate Guide to Authentic NYC Bagels in the Jordaan

Craving a true taste of New York City in the heart of Amsterdam? Look no further than **Breadwinner Amsterdam**, a delightful bagel shop that consistently delivers the most authentic NYC-style bagels you’ll find in the city. Whether your ideal bagel experience involves a perfectly toasted classic with a generous schmear of cream cheese, or an elaborate, stacked bagel sandwich bursting with gourmet toppings, Breadwinner Amsterdam is truly a culinary haven for bagel enthusiasts. While you’re exploring Amsterdam’s vibrant food scene, don’t forget to check out our comprehensive Amsterdam Food Guide, featuring all our favorite foodie spots, including other treats like those at Lanskroon Bakery.

Delicious NYC-style bagels at Breadwinner Amsterdam, served with various toppings, showcasing their authentic texture.

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As a New Yorker who has spent over two decades living as an expat in Paris, I can confidently say that authentic bagels are one of the things I’ve missed most profoundly. While Paris excels in countless culinary arts, bagels, unfortunately, haven’t quite made the cut. You can imagine my sheer delight and immediate excitement when friends living in the Netherlands enthusiastically recommended we try the bagels at Breadwinner during our next trip! The promise of a genuine NYC-style bagel was too good to pass up, stirring a deep nostalgia for the flavors of home.

We didn’t hesitate. On our most recent visit to Amsterdam, we eagerly sought out this charming, tiny bagel shop. The experience was so satisfying that we found ourselves returning multiple times, each visit reinforcing our initial impression: Breadwinner is a game-changer. It’s more than just a quick bite; it’s a taste of home for those who know and love a true bagel.

Whether you’re planning a short 2-day itinerary in Amsterdam or settling in for an extended stay, making time to visit Breadwinner is an absolute must. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll undoubtedly be glad you did.

A freshly made bagel sandwich from Breadwinner Amsterdam, perfectly crafted and ready to be enjoyed.

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What is Breadwinner Amsterdam?

Breadwinner Amsterdam is more than just a bagel shop; it’s a dedicated artisan bakery committed to bringing the beloved taste of New York City bagels to Europe. Nestled in the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood – one of Amsterdam’s most charming and historic areas – this adorable establishment specializes in delicious, hand-rolled sourdough bagels. Each bagel is crafted with care, using traditional methods that result in that iconic chewy interior and slightly crispy crust that true bagel aficionados crave. Beyond their exceptional bagels, they also serve quality coffee, making it the perfect spot for a quintessential breakfast or a satisfying lunch on the go.

What Makes Breadwinner Bagels Authentic?

The secret to Breadwinner Amsterdam’s authentic NYC-style bagels lies in their meticulous process and commitment to quality. Unlike many mass-produced bagels, Breadwinner’s are hand-rolled, giving them a unique texture and shape. They use a sourdough base, which imbues the bagels with a subtle tang and a deeper, more complex flavor profile than traditional yeast bagels. This sourdough starter contributes to their signature chewiness and a crust that achieves the perfect balance of crispness without being overly hard. The bagels are then boiled and baked, a crucial step in achieving the classic dense yet pliable texture that defines a true New York bagel. Every bite transports you straight to a bustling deli in the Big Apple, a rare and cherished experience for expats and travelers alike.

Freshly brewed coffee in a to-go cup, ready to be paired with a bagel at Breadwinner Amsterdam.

What to order at Breadwinner Amsterdam

The menu at Breadwinner Amsterdam caters to all bagel preferences, from traditionalists to those seeking more adventurous combinations. For a simple yet incredibly satisfying breakfast or lunch, you absolutely cannot go wrong with a fresh bagel paired with their luscious cream cheese. My personal all-time favorite, which I’ll champion forever, is the “everything bagel” – its rich tapestry of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion truly elevates the experience. However, Breadwinner offers a fantastic array of bagel varieties to suit every palate, including classic plain, toasted sesame, savory salt, pungent onion, spicy jalapeno, and delicate poppy seed.

Beyond the classic bagel and cream cheese, Breadwinner truly shines with its selection of gourmet bagel sandwiches. Each option sounds utterly divine and is crafted with high-quality ingredients, promising a memorable meal. While we haven’t had the chance to sample every single creation (yet!), the two we did try were absolutely outstanding and left us craving more:

The “Smoked Salmon” : This exquisite sandwich features hot smoked Faroe Island salmon, perfectly complemented by creamy cream cheese, finely sliced red onions, and briny capers. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, with the rich salmon taking center stage. (Also available with traditional cold smoked salmon if you prefer that classic deli style.)
The “Pastrami” : A robust and hearty choice, the pastrami bagel sandwich boasts succulent smoked beef brisket, generously slathered with sharp Dijon mustard, crisp sauerkraut, nutty Emmental cheese, and a touch of salted butter to bring all the flavors together. It’s a masterpiece of savory satisfaction.

Yum, yum, yum! Just thinking about these incredible sandwiches makes my mouth water. The attention to detail in each ingredient selection truly sets Breadwinner apart, transforming a simple bagel into a gourmet delight.

Close-up of a perfectly prepared everything bagel with a generous layer of cream cheese from Breadwinner Amsterdam.

The Breadwinner Experience

Visiting Breadwinner Amsterdam is an experience in itself. The moment you approach this cozy shop, you’re greeted by the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee, a testament to the quality and care put into every item. The ambiance is warm and inviting, embodying the charm of a neighborhood gem. While it’s primarily a grab-and-go spot, perfect for picking up a quick and delicious bite, the friendly staff and efficient service make every visit a pleasant one. You can grab your bagel and coffee and enjoy it while strolling through the picturesque streets of the Jordaan, or find a cozy spot by a canal to savor your authentic NYC treat. It’s the perfect start to a day of exploring or a satisfying midday refuel.

Breadwinner Amsterdam location

Breadwinner Amsterdam enjoys a prime location in the beautiful and iconic Jordaan area of Amsterdam. This neighborhood is renowned for its narrow streets, quaint canals, charming boutiques, and traditional ‘brown cafés’. Exploring the Jordaan is an essential part of any Amsterdam visit, and having Breadwinner situated here makes it incredibly convenient to combine your bagel fix with some sightseeing. It’s truly a delightful area to wander, soak in the local atmosphere, and discover hidden courtyards.

Address

Tweede Laurierdwarsstraat 50HS, 1016 RC Amsterdam

The charming storefront of Breadwinner Amsterdam, inviting passersby into the world of authentic bagels.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious boutique hotels to comfortable, affordable options. To enhance your experience, consider these excellent choices:

The Pulitzer – Immerse yourself in authentic Amsterdam charm at The Pulitzer. This exceptionally special hotel offers the unique opportunity to stay in a collection of converted canal houses, blending historic architecture with luxury boutique amenities. Enjoy rooms with stunning canal views, unwind at their gorgeous hotel bar, or indulge in a meal at their fabulously chic restaurant.
The Dylan – Located in the vibrant heart of Amsterdam, The Dylan is an epitome of elegance and chic design. This special hotel offers an unparalleled experience, boasting a beautiful bar and a renowned 3-Michelin star restaurant for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Eden Hotel Amsterdam – For travelers seeking a balance of luxury and affordability, the Eden Hotel Amsterdam is a perfect choice. This stylish 4-star boutique hotel is not only well-located near major attractions but also boasts beautifully decorated rooms, ensuring a comfortable and visually appealing stay.
NH City Centre Amsterdam – You can always rely on NH hotels for consistent comfort, cleanliness, and excellent locations. The NH City Centre Amsterdam upholds this reputation, providing a dependable and pleasant lodging experience right in the heart of the city, making it an ideal base for exploration.

Don’t miss these other activities in Amsterdam!

Beyond its fantastic food scene, Amsterdam is rich with culture, history, and unique experiences. Make sure to include these unforgettable activities in your itinerary:

Book a canal cruise with unlimited cheese and wine – Experience Amsterdam from its iconic waterways. This particular canal cruise was our absolute favorite, offering picturesque views of the city’s charming architecture paired with a delightful selection of unlimited cheese and wine – a truly indulgent way to see the city!
Visit the Van Gogh Museum – Delve into the brilliant world of Vincent van Gogh at this stunning museum. Home to the largest collection of his paintings and drawings, it offers an intimate look into the life and work of this post-impressionist master.
Visit the Anne Frank House – A poignant and essential experience, the Anne Frank House allows visitors to step into the hidden annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. It’s a powerful and moving testament to resilience and hope.
Visit Rembrandt’s House – Explore the former home and studio of the legendary Dutch Golden Age painter, Rembrandt van Rijn. Gain insight into his daily life, his artistic process, and see where many of his masterpieces were created.

Breadwinner Amsterdam: Final Thoughts

After multiple visits and countless delicious bites, we wholeheartedly recommend Breadwinner Amsterdam to anyone seeking an authentic, high-quality bagel experience outside of New York City. Their dedication to hand-rolled sourdough bagels and gourmet fillings truly makes them a standout in Amsterdam’s vibrant culinary scene. It’s a place that captures the essence of a classic New York deli with a distinct European charm. We hope you’ll find yourself falling in love with Breadwinner bagels as much as we have! When you do visit, please share your experience and let us know your favorite bagel variety and the toppings that capture your heart in the comments below. Happy munching!

Delectable Bagels at Breadwinner Amsterdam