From Breakfast to Dinner
By NADIA MURADY | October 13, 2019
Photo by Thought Catalogue
Being a student in Amsterdam means that you’re probably running (or should I say cycling) around the city: between the university that you can’t quit and your part-time job that you can’t lose, while also running errands that you can’t put off any longer. We have to suffer through the same two problems: while the Migos may be bad and boujee, students are usually broke and busy.
You find yourself stuck between paying bill after bill, keeping (at least attempting to) up with your grades, and still somehow maintaining a decent social life.
I know it can be hard to manage everything. I get it.
Sometimes you are just so busy that you forget to eat, and it’s just too expensive to eat out – especially if it’s a proper and nutritious meal. Of course, meal planning exists, but it can be hard to keep up with. Anyone who lives in a student accommodation without a freezer can probably attest to this. Instead, it’s much easier, faster and cheaper to resort to instant noodles almost every day.
Fortunately, there are places in Amsterdam where you can get a decent meal at an affordable price-point no matter the time of the day. It’s perfect for when you don’t have time to cook yet don’t want to break the bank.
Breakfast: Yoghurt Barn
Yoghurt Barn is perfect for when you’re running late in the morning and need something healthy and simple on the go. Located at Central Station, it’s easy and convenient to find – especially for those who commute by train.
You get to choose between different yogurt specials ranging in a variety of sizes and flavors. Whether it’s full-fat, frozen or vegan, make sure to top it off with a big piece of cake and fresh juice. The all-day breakfast deal or lunch promotion allows you to get a full meal for just €8.95.
My personal favorite is the Merry Berry which consists of jam, blueberries, raspberries and an optional (depends on how fancy I’m feeling) berry syrup. It’s the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Lunch: Babel (OBA Restaurant)
After a long day of studying, one can only dream to have food appear right in front of you, or at least nearby. Fortunately for us, the Openbaar Bibliotheek Amsterdam has a restaurant on its top floor. The restaurant – named Babel – consists of a city-bar, food court and an open kitchen. It also offers a wide range of food from salad-bowls (for healthy days) to noodle soup (for sick days).
It’s more than ideal during exam season when the university libraries are filled to the brim, and finding a study-spot is seemingly impossible. The OBA at Oosterdok is large enough to always have an empty seat for you (hopefully this will still be the case now that I’ve let you in on my secret).
Dinner: Burger ‘n Shake
If you’re craving the traditional burgers, fries and shake combination, then look no further: Burger ‘n Shake, located in Amsterdam East, is the place to be.
Whether you choose a Beef, Chicken or Veggie ‘n Halloumi Burger, it’s all equally mouth-wateringly delicious. I personally love the Beef ‘n Spicy burger with lettuce, tomatoes, sautéed onions and harissa mayonnaise for only €5.95. If you top it off with fresh, generously proportioned fries and a milkshake on the side, you’ll be leaving the place feeling stuffed and satisfied. It’s a great option when you’re having a cheat day on your diet but don’t want to empty your wallet.
I know for certain that you’ll love each of these places as much as I do. On top of that, all three of them are open from early morning till late at night. If you’re feeling hungry after reading this, pick up your raincoat and make sure to head out to one of these locations. Be sure to let us at The Amsterdammer know about it!
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