Dutch Fries, called patat, are as much a national treasure and part of modern Dutch culture as the hot dog is in America. It is so popular that it is by far the most widely served fast food in the Netherlands. This typically Dutch experience is one not to be missed by any tourist.
Patat will come as a surprise to those of you used to how Americans make their French Fries. The Dutch version is very thick, bordering on wedges. The most popular way the fries are served is with mayonnaise, refered to as patat met (literally 'fries with', the 'with' refers to mayonnaise and is implied). There is also satesaus, a very thick peanut sauce (originating from Dutch Colonial Indonesia) which is served on top of the fries. Patat speciaal (fries special) is a mix of uncooked chopped onions, mayonnaise and ketchup - one on top of the other, on top of the fries. Those travellers looking for the most Dutch experience possible with their fries can be daring and order a patatje oorlog, literally translated as a french fry war. What exactly you will get depends on where you order it, but the idea behind it is that you will either get many condiments (usually chopped onions, mayonnaise and satesauce) or all condiments. If you aren't a big condiment fan you can always order your fries without toppings, or just with a small amount of mayonnaise to try it with at least one fry.
Whatever your taste buds lead you to, you will be certain to come across one of the street vendors, they are as ubiquitous as the over priced souvenier stores. In the Netherlands you will pay extra for your condiments, so that will affect the price - most places will charge you 30cents per condiment. The fries will usually be served in a paper cone with a small plastic fork. There will rarely be seating - much like the hot dog in New York, you'll eat it as you walk, making it the perfect snack while you are going about your tourist activities - though they can sit quite heavily if you eat too many.
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