FEBO caught our attention after spotting several outlets while wandering around Amsterdam. On our final day before heading to Brussels, we decided to give this iconic Dutch fast-food chain a proper try.
What Makes FEBO Different
FEBO started back in 1941 in Amsterdam. They serve typical fast-food fare like fries, burgers, and fried snacks. But here’s the twist: most items come from vending machines. You’ll find a counter for fries and drinks, but everything else – krokets (croquettes), frikandellen (sausages), burgers, kaassoufflés (fried cheese pastries) – sits in automated dispensers waiting for you.
The system works brilliantly. Each snack occupies its own compartment arranged in columns. Labels sit on top showing what’s inside, with English translations available. The see-through doors let you check out the snacks before committing. Press the button next to your chosen item, tap your card for contactless payment, press again, and the door flips open. Grab your snack and you’re done.
Our FEBO Haul: Six Snacks Tested
Kalfsvleeskroket (Veal Croquette)
Crispy pastry stuffed with creamy ragout made from fresh stock and Dutch veal. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and smooth interior worked perfectly.
Satékroket (Satay Croquette)
Spicy satay ragout with Asian spices and Dutch beef. Nutty flavour profile. Decent satay sauce rendition.
Kaassouffle (Cheese Soufflé)
Buttery puff pastry packed with cheese. This one won us over completely.
Piping hot pastry with molten cheese inside delivers serious comfort food vibes.
Grillburger
Dutch beef patty with crispy iceberg lettuce and homemade grill sauce on a sesame bun. Processed meat, sure, but surprisingly moist. Tastes better than it looks.
Bami
Crispy vegetarian pastry filled with fresh vegetables, spices, and noodles.
Not bad at all.
Frikadel
Spiced minced chicken and beef sausage.
Texture leans towards frankfurter territory with noticeable herbs and spices. Not particularly meaty.
The Verdict on FEBO
Everything came out hot and fresh. High turnover means staff constantly replenish the machines with new batches. These aren’t sad snacks sitting around for hours. FEBO delivers proper quality control despite the automated format.
Are these snacks spectacular? Not really. But FEBO serves its purpose like any decent fast-food chain. When you need something fried, crispy, and comforting, it hits the spot. The vending machine concept adds novelty points too.
Worth checking out if you’re in Amsterdam. FEBO represents a unique slice of Dutch food culture wrapped in automated convenience.