Bars
The Netherlands is home to one of the most famous beers in the world, Heineken. There are, however, many other breweries throughout the Netherlands and Amsterdam is the perfect place to try some of these Dutch brews. The city itself is home to a range of famous ‘Brown Cafes’; named after the nicotine stained walls of the establishments, some have been in operation for over 400 years. Centuries of brewing aside, you can also find a range of cocktail bars serving up traditional mixes, as well as interesting new concoctions to tempt your palette. If wine is more to your taste, it is the perfect time to visit Amsterdam. You will find an emerging wine scene, with a focus on organic and local vineyards. You are spoilt for choice when looking for a tipple in Amsterdam, but here are a few of our favourites.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ
Funenkade 7, 1018 AL Amsterdam
Brouwerij t’ IJ is an iconic brewery in Amsterdam, located in the east of the city, right next to the largest wooden windmill in the Netherlands. Brouwerik ‘t IJ offers a huge range of beers on tap, as well as a selection of tempting beer snacks. Sample a few of their delicious brews with a tasting paddle while enjoying the sun underneath the windmill. What could be better!
Proeflokaal Arendsnest
Herengracht 90, 1015 BS Amsterdam
Located on the picturesque Herengracht Canal, with a terrace spilling out the front to make the most of the sun, Proeflokaal Arendsnest is a Dutch beer lovers dream. The bar serves only Dutch beer, but what a selection with 50 beers on tap and more than 100 by the bottle! Chalkboards are constantly being updated to let you know what’s pouring, but feel free to talk to one of the knowledgeable staff members for help with navigating the selection. Inside Proeflokaal Arendsnest, it is cosy and comfortable. However, on a sunny day, the best spot is outside where you can sit in the warmth of the sun and watch the boats and people drift past. What a great place to spend an afternoon amongst the locals while learning more about Dutch beer!
Glou Glou
Tweede van der Helststraat 3, 1073 AE Amsterdam
Glou Glou is a great little wine bar located on a lovely street corner in the Oude Pijp neighbourhood. They serve a good selection of organic wines, as well as super tasty charcuterie and cheese boards, along with a small selection of main dishes. Glou Glou has a casual, yet lively atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals. Grab a spot outside in the sun and enjoy the local streetscape as you sink into life in Amsterdam – snacking on a range of treats and drinking in the atmosphere (and wine).
In de Wildeman
Kolksteeg 3, 1012 PT Amsterdam
In de Wilderman is exactly what a traditional Amsterdam pub should look like; wood panelling, nicotine stained brown walls and black and white tiles, surrounded by bottles, glasses and barrels. Just five minutes walk from Amsterdam Centraal, In de Wildeman has 18 beers on tap and hundreds of bottles to choose from, certainly a beer drinker’s paradise. Get chatting to the super friendly bar staff to get their recommendations for something you haven’t tried before – they are always happy to help and speak excellent English.
Bar Oldenhof
Elandsgracht 84, 1016 TZ Amsterdam
Now this is a bit of fun for your evening out! Bar Oldenhof is designed as a speakeasy, as in, you press the unmarked doorbell and wait for a staff member to appear (if they have space). Once inside, you’re greeted by discrete jazz music, dark wooden panelling, comfortable couches and an extensive cocktail and scotch whisky menu. The bar is located in the trendy Jordaan neighbourhood and is definitely worth a visit to try one of their eclectic cocktails.
