Complete Guide to Amsterdam’s Best Bars and Cocktail Lounges
There’s something almost magical about Amsterdam’s drinking scene that goes well beyond just the clubs. Perhaps it’s how a city built on centuries of trade and cultural exchange has created this incredible tapestry of drinking establishments – from centuries-old brown cafés where locals have been gathering since before your great-grandparents were born, to cutting-edge cocktail lounges that wouldn’t look out of place in Tokyo or New York.
I’ve spent years exploring Amsterdam’s bar scene, and honestly, I’m still discovering hidden corners and secret spots that surprise me. The city has this remarkable ability to balance tradition with innovation – one evening you might find yourself sipping jenever in a café that’s remained unchanged for 200 years, the next you’re experiencing molecular mixology that pushes the boundaries of what a cocktail can be.
What makes Amsterdam’s bar culture truly special isn’t just the quality of the drinks, though they’re exceptional. It’s the way these spaces bring people together, how they serve as community centres, creative hubs, and places where strangers become friends over shared appreciation for excellent beer, wine, or spirits. Whether you’re looking to start an evening before heading to Amsterdam’s legendary nightclub scene or seeking a more intimate alternative to the dance floors, the city’s bars offer experiences that range from cosy and traditional to bold and experimental.
Amsterdam’s Drinking Culture: A Brief Introduction
Amsterdam’s relationship with alcohol is, well, complicated in the most fascinating way. This is a city that’s simultaneously famous for its liberal attitudes and its deep respect for craftsmanship and quality. You’ll find this balance reflected everywhere in the drinking scene – from the meticulous care that goes into crafting traditional Dutch jenevers to the precision of modern cocktail bars that treat drink-making as high art.
The city’s café culture forms the backbone of social life here. But when locals say “café,” they might mean several different things, which can be initially confusing. There are brown cafés (bruine kroegen) – traditional pubs with centuries of character literally stained into their wooden interiors. There are grand cafés – more upscale establishments with impressive architecture and sophisticated food menus. And then there are the newer wave of craft beer bars, cocktail lounges, and wine bars that represent Amsterdam’s evolving drinking landscape.
What I find particularly interesting is how Amsterdam’s bars serve different functions throughout the day and week. A place might be a quiet neighbourhood local in the afternoon, transform into a pre-dinner cocktail destination in the early evening, then become a lively meeting point before people head out to explore the city’s various nightlife districts.
Cocktail Excellence: Amsterdam’s Liquid Artistry
Amsterdam’s cocktail scene has absolutely exploded over the past decade, and I mean that in the best possible way. The city now boasts several bars that regularly appear on international “best of” lists, while maintaining a distinctly Dutch character that sets them apart from cocktail capitals like London or New York.
Door 74: The Pioneer
Door 74 deserves recognition as perhaps the bar that started Amsterdam’s serious cocktail revolution. This speakeasy – and yes, it’s a proper speakeasy with no obvious signage – has been consistently excellent for years now. Located on Reguliersdwarsstraat, it’s the kind of place you could easily walk past without noticing, which is entirely the point.
Inside, you’ll find Art Deco styling that feels authentic rather than contrived, dim lighting that encourages conversation, and bartenders who genuinely understand their craft. The menu changes regularly, but you can always expect drinks that balance complexity with drinkability. I’ve never had a disappointing cocktail here, though I’ll admit the prices reflect the quality – expect to pay around €12-15 per drink.
Flying Dutchmen Cocktails: Modern Masters
If Door 74 represents Amsterdam’s cocktail heritage, Flying Dutchmen represents its future. This contemporary bar has gained international recognition for its creative approach to classic cocktails and its commitment to using local ingredients where possible.
What strikes me about Flying Dutchmen is how they manage to be serious about their craft without taking themselves too seriously. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, but they’re also approachable and happy to chat about their creations or make recommendations based on your preferences. They have a sister bar called Dutch Courage that focuses specifically on Dutch spirits, which speaks to their commitment to showcasing local distilling traditions.
Hiding in Plain Sight: The Local’s Secret
This might be my personal favourite cocktail bar in Amsterdam, though perhaps that’s partly because it feels like discovering a secret every time you visit. Hiding in Plain Sight is exactly what its name suggests – a small, intimate space that prioritises atmosphere and personal service over flashy presentation.
The bartenders here are genuinely gifted. Give them a rough idea of what you enjoy, and they’ll create something perfect for your taste. The menu exists, but the real magic happens when you trust them to surprise you. I’ve had some of my best Amsterdam cocktail experiences here, drinks I’m still thinking about years later.
Super Lyan: International Expertise
Super Lyan represents something relatively new in Amsterdam’s cocktail scene – an international brand that’s managed to adapt successfully to the local market. This is the first European outpost of the Mr Lyan group, which has created award-winning bars in London.
Set in a beautiful 17th-century canal house, Super Lyan combines historical architecture with contemporary cocktail culture. The neon-pink lighting and modern design elements create a striking contrast with the building’s classical features, and somehow it all works brilliantly.
Bar Mokum: Neighbourhood Excellence
Bar Mokum deserves recognition as perhaps Amsterdam’s best neighbourhood cocktail bar. Located beneath MOAK Pancakes in De Pijp, it’s the kind of place that could easily become your local if you lived nearby.
The name “Mokum” is Amsterdam’s Yiddish nickname, and the bar’s decor reflects this connection to the city’s history and identity. But this isn’t a theme bar – it’s a serious cocktail establishment that happens to celebrate its location and community.
Craft Beer Revolution: Amsterdam’s Brewing Renaissance
Amsterdam’s craft beer scene has undergone a transformation that’s been remarkable to witness. A city that was once dominated by a few large breweries now hosts dozens of independent brewers creating everything from traditional Dutch styles to experimental IPAs that push the boundaries of what beer can be.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ: The Iconic Pioneer
Brouwerij ‘t IJ is probably Amsterdam’s most famous craft brewery, and for good reason. Located in a former bathhouse beneath the De Gooyer windmill, it’s one of those venues that perfectly captures Amsterdam’s ability to blend history with innovation.
Founded in 1985, ‘t IJ was brewing craft beer before most people knew what craft beer was. Their core range includes excellent examples of traditional Dutch and Belgian styles, but they’re also constantly experimenting with seasonal and limited-edition brews. Many of their beers pack a considerable punch – alcohol percentages of 8-10% are common, so pace yourselves.
Proeflokaal Arendsnest: Dutch Beer Specialists
If you want to explore the full range of Dutch craft brewing, Proeflokaal Arendsnest is absolutely essential. This Jordaan café stocks exclusively Dutch beers – over 50 on tap and dozens more in bottles, representing virtually every independent brewery in the Netherlands.
What makes Arendsnest special is their genuine expertise and passion. The staff know their beer intimately and can guide you through tastings that showcase different styles, regions, and brewing philosophies. They offer formal beer tastings with a specialist who’ll explain the history and techniques behind what you’re drinking.
Beer Temple: International Selection
Beer Temple takes a different approach from Arendsnest, focusing on both Dutch and international craft beers with an emphasis on American styles. Located in the city centre, it’s become a destination for beer tourists seeking familiar styles alongside local discoveries.
One thing I particularly appreciate about Beer Temple is their commitment to proper serving sizes – you can actually get a full pint here, which is surprisingly rare in Amsterdam. The selection is expertly curated, focusing on quality over quantity, and the staff are knowledgeable about both local and international brewing scenes.
Craft & Draft: Neighbourhood Gem
Craft & Draft in Amsterdam-West represents the new generation of neighbourhood beer bars. With 40 beers on tap and over 60 in bottles and cans, they’ve created a space where local and international beer cultures intersect.
What I love about this place is its genuine community feel. Owners Merk and Alex have created more than just a bar – they’ve built a gathering place where beer lovers from Amsterdam and around the world come together to share their passion.
Traditional Brown Cafés: Amsterdam’s Living History
No discussion of Amsterdam’s drinking scene would be complete without acknowledging the brown cafés – the traditional pubs that form the backbone of the city’s social life. These establishments, many of them centuries old, offer glimpses into Amsterdam’s history while remaining vital parts of neighbourhood communities.
Café t’Smalle: Timeless Perfection
t’Smalle might be Amsterdam’s most beautiful brown café, and that’s saying something in a city full of atmospheric pubs. Located in the Jordaan with a stunning canal-side terrace, it’s been serving drinks since 1786 and looks like it could continue unchanged for another 200 years.
The interior is everything you’d expect from a proper brown café – dark wood stained by centuries of tobacco smoke, antique fixtures, and an atmosphere that seems to absorb and reflect decades of conversation and laughter. But it’s not a museum piece – this is a living, breathing part of Amsterdam’s social fabric.
Café Papeneiland: Historic Charm
Café Papeneiland claims to date from 1642, making it potentially Amsterdam’s oldest café. Whether or not that’s precisely accurate, there’s no disputing its historical atmosphere and authentic character.
Located near the Noorderkerk in the Jordaan, Papeneiland feels like stepping back in time. The interior is dark, cosy, and filled with antique details that speak to centuries of use. The clientele tends to be a mix of locals and knowledgeable visitors, creating conversations that bridge generations and cultures.
Neighbourhood Exploration: Where to Drink by District
Amsterdam’s drinking establishments cluster in distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character and specialties. Understanding these areas can help you plan more focused and enjoyable bar-hopping adventures.
Jordaan: Traditional Meets Modern
The Jordaan district represents Amsterdam’s bar culture at its most diverse and authentic. Here you’ll find centuries-old brown cafés alongside modern craft beer bars and sophisticated cocktail lounges, often within a few streets of each other.
This is where many of Amsterdam’s most famous traditional pubs are located, including t’Smalle and Café Papeneiland. But you’ll also discover innovative newcomers that respect the neighbourhood’s character while bringing contemporary energy and creativity.
De Pijp: Creative and Diverse
De Pijp has emerged as Amsterdam’s most dynamic drinking district, attracting a younger, more international crowd while maintaining its distinctly local character. This is where you’ll find some of the city’s most innovative bars, from craft beer specialists to cutting-edge cocktail lounges.
The area’s diversity is reflected in its drinking establishments – Ethiopian wine bars sit alongside Dutch craft breweries, while traditional cafés compete with molecular mixology labs. Bar Mokum exemplifies this blend of local pride and international sophistication that characterises the district.
Practical Considerations: Making the Most of Amsterdam’s Bar Scene
Understanding how Amsterdam’s bars operate can significantly improve your experiences and help you avoid common pitfalls that trip up first-time visitors.
Opening Hours and Timing
Amsterdam’s bars follow patterns that might surprise visitors from other cities. Many don’t really get busy until 8 or 9 PM, and peak hours often extend well past midnight. This creates opportunities for more relaxed early evening experiences, but also means you need to plan accordingly if you want to experience bars at their most energetic.
Most bars close around 1 AM on weekdays and 2 AM on weekends, though some stay open later. This timing works perfectly for those planning to continue their night at one of Amsterdam’s legendary nightclubs, providing natural transition points between different types of entertainment. For detailed guidance on navigating between venues, check out our Amsterdam late-night transportation guide.
Reservations and Walk-ins
The reservation culture in Amsterdam varies significantly between types of establishments. High-end cocktail bars almost always require bookings, especially for groups or weekend visits. Traditional brown cafés typically operate on a walk-in basis, though popular spots can get crowded.
Some bars, like Hiding in Plain Sight, only accept same-day reservations, requiring you to call on the day you want to visit. This system prevents over-booking while maintaining some planning capability.
Payment and Pricing
Most Amsterdam bars now accept cards, but carrying some cash is still advisable, particularly for traditional establishments. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up to the nearest euro or adding 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
Pricing varies dramatically between establishment types. Traditional brown cafés offer the best value, with excellent beer starting around €3-4. Craft beer bars charge €5-7 for quality selections. High-end cocktail bars command €10-15 per drink, but the quality and experience typically justify the premium. For budget-conscious options, explore our guide to affordable nightlife in Amsterdam.
Cultural Etiquette and Safety
Amsterdam’s drinking culture emphasises socialising and conversation over rapid consumption. Taking time to savour your drinks and engage with fellow patrons or staff is not only acceptable but encouraged.
Most bars welcome solo drinkers, particularly those who seem genuinely interested in the beer, wine, or cocktail culture. Don’t be surprised if conversations with strangers develop naturally – this is part of Amsterdam’s social drinking tradition. For comprehensive safety advice and cultural tips, consult our Amsterdam nightlife safety guide.
Building Your Amsterdam Bar Journey
Creating memorable bar experiences in Amsterdam requires some planning, but also flexibility to embrace unexpected discoveries. The city rewards both careful research and spontaneous exploration.
Consider starting your Amsterdam drinking education with the traditional brown cafés to understand the historical foundation of the city’s bar culture. Move on to craft beer specialists to appreciate the innovation and quality that characterise modern Amsterdam brewing. Conclude with high-end cocktail bars to experience the technical skill and creativity of contemporary Amsterdam bartenders.
But don’t feel obligated to follow any prescribed path. Some of my best Amsterdam bar experiences have come from following recommendations from bartenders, striking up conversations with fellow drinkers, or simply wandering into places that looked interesting from the street.
The beauty of Amsterdam’s bar scene lies in its diversity and accessibility. Whether you prefer centuries-old traditional pubs or cutting-edge molecular mixology, neighbourhood locals or international destinations, the city offers experiences that will satisfy virtually any drinking preference. Before you finish your evening, you might want to explore Amsterdam’s alternative nightlife options for unique ways to cap off your bar-hopping adventure.
What ultimately makes Amsterdam’s bar scene special isn’t just the quality of the drinks or the beauty of the venues – it’s the way these spaces facilitate human connection. Whether you’re sharing beer knowledge with strangers at Arendsnest, engaging in philosophical discussions over cocktails at Hiding in Plain Sight, or simply enjoying the timeless atmosphere of a brown café, Amsterdam’s bars create opportunities for meaningful interaction.
Ready to explore Amsterdam’s incredible bar scene? Start with the traditional brown cafés for historical context, then venture into the craft beer revolution and cocktail excellence that define modern Amsterdam drinking culture. Each venue tells part of the city’s story while creating new chapters in your own Amsterdam adventure.
