De Volkskruidentuin is an independent spice and pantry shop at Kinkerstraat 142-A-B, 1053 EG Amsterdam, in Amsterdam-West, Netherlands. Its core identity is straightforward: a compact, ingredient-led stop for dried herbs, spices, seasonings, nuts and rice at approachable prices. Travelers come to stock up for self-catering, find less routine cooking staples, and browse the aromatic shelves along one of Oud-West’s best-known shopping streets.
What to Expect at De Volkskruidentuin
This is a working neighborhood store rather than a museum, tasting room or formal food market. The main experience is browsing the spice-and-herb selection: look for dried seasonings and blends alongside practical pantry goods such as nuts and rice. The appeal lies in comparison shopping and discovery—visitors can pick up everyday essentials or build a more ambitious meal with ingredients that may be harder to find in a standard convenience shop.
The shop’s Kinkerstraat setting is part of the draw. Kinkerstraat runs through Oud-West, an area of independent retailers, market stalls, cafés and food-focused stops west of the canal ring. De Volkskruidentuin’s compact retail format rewards a focused visit: arrive with a recipe or shopping list, allow time to scan the range, and ask about the item you need if it is not immediately visible. It is particularly useful for apartment-stay cooks and travelers seeking edible souvenirs that travel more easily than prepared foods.
- Spices and dried herbs: the central reason to visit, with a broad selection for seasoning everyday and international dishes.
- Seasoning blends: a practical option for cooks who want to add depth without buying many separate ingredients.
- Nuts and rice: pantry staples that make the shop useful beyond spice shopping alone.
- Reasonable pricing: known locally for a wide range at accessible prices.
- Kinkerstraat location: easy to combine with Ten Katemarkt, De Hallen and an Oud-West food crawl.
De Volkskruidentuin at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Kinkerstraat 142-A-B, 1053 EG Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Neighborhood / Area | Oud-West / Amsterdam-West, near Ten Katemarkt and De Hallen |
| Operating Hours | Monday–Saturday, 10am–6pm; closed Sunday |
| Admission & Ticket Prices | Free entry; no tickets or reservations are required for shopping |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 15 to 30 minutes, longer if shopping for several recipes |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Tram 17 on Kinkerstraat; Bilderdijkstraat is a useful nearby stop. Paid street parking is limited in Oud-West. |
| Official Website / Phone | Official Facebook page / +31 6 10611109 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Go earlier in the day, especially on Saturday, if you want time to browse before the surrounding streets become busier. There is no admission queue and no booking system: simply walk in during opening hours. Because this is a specialist food shop, bring a short list of ingredients or a recipe idea; it makes it easier to choose among dried herbs, spices, nuts and rice without overbuying. Card and contactless payment are accepted. Check the official Facebook page or call before making a special trip around a public holiday.
For public transport, tram 17 runs along Kinkerstraat, with Bilderdijkstraat a convenient nearby stop; walking from there keeps the route simple and level along the shopping street. Driving is less convenient: central Amsterdam’s paid street spaces are scarce, and cycling or public transport is usually easier. The shop is at street level, but it is a compact retail space, so wheelchair and stroller turning room may be limited; call ahead for assistance with access or a larger purchase. Within a short walk, browse the stalls at Ten Katemarkt, eat at Foodhallen inside De Hallen, or explore De Hallen’s converted tram-depot complex. Vondelpark is also reachable in roughly 15 minutes on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are De Volkskruidentuin’s opening hours, and when is the best time to go?
The shop is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm and closed Sundays. Late morning on a weekday is a good time for an unhurried browse; Saturdays are best approached earlier in the day.
Does De Volkskruidentuin charge admission or require a reservation?
No. Entry is free because De Volkskruidentuin is a retail shop, and no reservation or ticket is needed. You pay only for the food items you choose to buy.
How much time should I allow for a visit?
Allow 15 to 30 minutes for a quick browse and a few purchases. Budget more time if you are comparing spices for multiple recipes or combining the stop with Ten Katemarkt and Foodhallen.
Is De Volkskruidentuin suitable for families and wheelchair users?
Families can make a brief, practical stop while exploring Oud-West, though it is a shopping destination rather than an activity venue. The street-level entrance helps, but the compact interior can be challenging for wheelchairs and larger strollers; phone ahead to discuss individual access needs.
When planning your Amsterdam travel guide or browsing verified supermarket in Amsterdam, pair this stop with standout local spots including Bakery van der Heijden, Vintage of Amsterdam: Jordaan Designer Vintage Boutique Guide, Dahli's Boutique Apartments, and De Hallen Amsterdam: Foodhallen, FilmHallen & Cultural Visitor Guide (nearby).
