De Hallen is a cultural complex in Amsterdam’s Oud-West, set inside a former tram depot. Its brick halls bring together Foodhallen, an indoor market for street food from Amsterdam vendors and beyond, with shops, galleries, a cinema and other creative spaces. Come for a meal, browse locally made goods at places such as The Maker Store, or see what’s on at a themed weekend market. The spacious seating makes it a handy place to pause, and the indoor setting works well on a rainy day.
A tram depot turned cultural complex
De Hallen occupies a former tram depot in Amsterdam’s Oud-West. The red-brick buildings date to 1902 and were later used as an artist squat. The complex reopened in 2014 as a place for food, culture and creative businesses.
Its large indoor spaces retain the character of the depot while housing a mix of independent outlets and community services. You can find a cinema, galleries, shops, a hotel, a library and a reading café here, alongside Foodhallen. The variety makes De Hallen more than a place to eat: it can be a stop for a film, a browse or a break from the weather.
Foodhallen and local shops
Foodhallen is an indoor food market with street-food stalls from Amsterdam vendors and a range of specialist bars. The choice spans different cuisines, so it suits a group that wants to order different things. Seating areas give you room to settle in between browsing the stalls. For a more local souvenir, look in shops such as The Maker Store, which sells gifts and home goods made by local makers.
The complex also includes creative businesses and independent shops, with goods ranging from design items to fashion. If you want to explore beyond the food hall, leave time to look around rather than heading straight to a table.
Markets and other things to see
The halls host themed weekend markets, including events focused on Dutch design or organic produce. Their schedule changes, so check the De Hallen website before planning a visit around a particular market.
Other stops within the complex include FilmHallen, an arthouse cinema, the gallery Beeldend Gesproken and a branch of the Amsterdam Public Library with reading café Belcampo. De Hallen also has practical services and shops, including a bicycle shop. The mix means you can combine lunch with a film, browse or event without leaving the building.
FAQ
What is De Hallen in Amsterdam?
It is a cultural complex in a former tram depot in Oud-West, with Foodhallen, shops, galleries, a cinema and other creative spaces.
What can you eat at De Hallen?
Foodhallen has indoor street-food stalls serving food from Amsterdam vendors and different cuisines. The bitterballen sampler and pulled pork sando are options to look for.
When is De Hallen less crowded?
Weekdays tend to be quieter. Saturdays are usually busier.
Are there markets at De Hallen?
The complex hosts themed weekend markets, including events focused on Dutch design and organic produce. Check the website for upcoming dates.
