Amsterdam’s Coffee Scene
When you think of Amsterdam, visions of tulips, canals, and red light districts come to mind, but there is much more to this beautiful city. One aspect of Amsterdam is its burgeoning coffee scene. Home to numerous cafes, specialty shops, and a variety of unique coffee experiences, Amsterdam is perfect for those who need a break from their travels to relax and take in the stunning sights and vibrant culture. And with plenty of places to enjoy a hot cup of joe, from home-style bean roasters to third-wave java bars, Amsterdam’s coffee scene is second to none.
This guide will serve as your one-stop shop for all things coffee in Amsterdam. Here you will find a comprehensive overview of the city’s coffee offerings, as well as tips and recommendations to ensure you get the best experience possible. So sit back, relax, and prepare to explore the cozy and energizing world of Amsterdam’s coffee.
Pros Of Amsterdam Coffee
There are many benefits to stepping away from your hectic travel schedule and enjoying a cup of coffee in Amsterdam. Here are just a few of the pros of Amsterdam coffee:
• Enjoy the Small Town Feel: Amsterdam is a relatively small city compared to some of those in Europe. With a modest population of 810,000, Amsterdam retains the charm and intimacy of a small, close-knit town. So, grabbing a cup of coffee here isn’t just about the drink, it’s about the community and the experience overall.
• Try Something New: The coffee culture in Amsterdam is always growing and evolving. As a result, there are lots of unique offerings and interesting brewing methods to explore. From pour-over coffee to cold brew, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• Quality Beans: Most of Amsterdam’s coffee shops import their beans from all over the world. This ensures that the coffee you drink is of the highest quality and the freshest available.
Roasting Tips & Techniques
Home roasting has become an increasingly popular hobby among coffee aficionados. If you plan to take advantage of Amsterdam’s great coffee offerings, it’s important to know some basics before you start. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when roasting your own coffee at home:
• Start with Quality Beans: Make sure to use high-quality, freshly roasted beans to get the best taste and aroma.
• Monitor Heat and Time: Too much or too little heat or time can ruin your beans, so it’s important to monitor both to ensure you don’t over or under-roast your coffee.
• Blend for Flavor: If you’re looking for a unique flavor profile, blending different beans can help you achieve the desired result. Experiment with different combinations and find the one that best suits your taste.
• Store Properly: To ensure the freshness of your beans, store them in an airtight container and keep them away from direct sunlight.
Best Coffee Shops in Amsterdam
Now that you know a little about the basics of roasting your own beans, it’s time to step out and explore some of Amsterdam’s most popular coffee houses:
• Denk Coffee: Located in Amsterdam-West, Denk Coffee serves single-origin espresso and pour-over coffee. It’s a cozy spot with ample seating and plenty of natural light.
• Scandinavian Embassy: This Scandinavian-inspired café is located in the heart of Amsterdam. It specializes in espresso-based beverages and pastries, as well as Nordic-style roasts.
• Coffee and Cow: This specialty coffee shop is located in the Red Light District and serves espresso, nitro coffee, and matcha-based drinks. It also features a wide selection of vegan pastries and baked goods.
• Bocca Coffee: Bocca Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster and café located in Amsterdam-South. It offers fresh coffee beans from all around the world and serves everything from espresso to cold brew.
• Poco Carreta: This coffee shop and restaurant is located in the Jordaan district and specializes in light roasts with a modern twist. It also serves a variety of tea, pastries, and sandwiches.
• White Label Coffee: This hip coffee shop is located in the Haarlemmerbuurt district. It specializes in roasting its own beans, serving unique espresso-based drinks, and offering barista-training sessions.
• Dutch Bros Coffee: This Amsterdam-based chain has several locations throughout the city. It serves an array of coffee drinks and pastries, including espresso, cold brew, and specialty nitro brews.
Rest & Relaxation: Cafes & Lounges To Unwind In
After a day of exploring and sightseeing, it can be nice to find a quiet spot to kick back and relax. In Amsterdam, there are plenty of cafes and lounges to enjoy a good cup of coffee and take some time for yourself. Here are a few of the best places to unwind in the city:
• Momo Coffee & Tea: This cozy cafe is located in the Jordaan district and features locally sourced coffee and teas. With comfortable couches and loads of natural light, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and relax.
• The Walnut Tree: Located in the Nieuwmarkt area, The Walnut Tree is a charming cafe and lounge with traditional decor, warm lighting, and excellent coffee. It’s a great place to take a break and catch up with friends.
• Café Kalebas: This hip spot is located in the heart of the De Pijp district. The cafe serves all sorts of coffee drinks and tea, as well as pastries and fresh-baked bread. There are a few comfy couches for lounging and lots of natural light.
• The White Place: This trendy cafe is located in Amsterdam’s Oud-West district. It serves specialty coffee and tea along with breakfast and lunch items. With plenty of tables and comfortable seating, The White Place makes for a vibrant yet tranquil atmosphere.
• The Place: This cozy cafe located in the Netherlands’ oldest working-class neighbourhood, De Jordaan. It’s a great place to relax with a good book or chat with friends. The Place serves all sorts of signature coffee drinks, as well as pastries and light bites.
Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of urban life can be just as important as sightseeing and exploring. Amsterdam has long been a mecca for coffee lovers, and it’s easy to see why. With its variety of coffee establishments, great selection of beans, and numerous cafes to relax in, Amsterdam is the perfect place to get your caffeine fix and escape reality. So, next time you’re in Amsterdam, remember to take the time to grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and truly enjoy all that the city has to offer.
