When seeking the best bars in Amsterdam, it’s essential to understand that ‘best’ is subjective and depends heavily on your preference for atmosphere, drink selection, and crowd. However, for a truly authentic Dutch pub experience combined with an exceptional craft beer selection, Café Arendsnest stands out as the undeniable winner. If your priority is a classic, historic brown café, Café Chris in the Jordaan is a close second, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Amsterdam’s drinking heritage.
Many visitors to Amsterdam arrive with a vague idea of wanting to experience the city’s unique drinking culture, often picturing quaint ‘brown cafés’ or bustling modern establishments. The challenge lies in sifting through the sheer volume of options to find places that offer genuine character, quality beverages, and a memorable experience, rather than just another tourist trap. This guide cuts through the noise to provide specific recommendations that cater to different tastes, ensuring you spend less time searching and more time enjoying.
What Most Guides Get Wrong About Amsterdam Bars
Most articles on the best bars in Amsterdam tend to either list generic, high-traffic venues or focus solely on ‘brown cafés’ without distinguishing between the authentic and the overly touristy. They often fail to acknowledge the city’s vibrant and growing craft beer scene, which offers experiences far beyond the standard Heineken or local pilsner. Another common oversight is the lack of specific details about the crowd, atmosphere, and true uniqueness of a place, leading visitors to venues that don’t match their expectations.
For instance, many guides will mention bars in the Red Light District, implying they offer an authentic Amsterdam experience. While these bars have their place, they often cater to a specific type of tourist and lack the genuine warmth and local patronage found elsewhere. Similarly, some ‘historic’ brown cafés have become so popular with tourists that they’ve lost some of their original charm, serving as more of a photo opportunity than a true local hangout. Our recommendations prioritize places where locals still gather, where the drinks are carefully selected, and where the ambiance feels truly Dutch, whether traditional or modern.
The Best Bars in Amsterdam for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
For those whose quest for the best bars in Amsterdam is driven by a passion for craft beer, Café Arendsnest is your pilgrimage site. Located along the Herengracht canal, this bar boasts an astonishing selection of exclusively Dutch craft beers, with over 50 taps and hundreds more in bottles. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, happy to guide you through the diverse landscape of Dutch brewing, from crisp pilsners to complex stouts and experimental sours. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and bustling without being overwhelming, attracting a mix of serious beer drinkers and curious locals.
Another strong contender in the craft beer arena is Brouwerij ‘t IJ Proeflokaal. Situated beneath the city’s largest wooden windmill, De Gooyer, this brewery and tasting room offers a fantastic opportunity to sample their own organic beers, which are renowned across the Netherlands. While their selection is limited to their own brews, the quality is consistently high, and the unique setting provides an unforgettable backdrop. It’s a slightly more casual, outdoor-focused experience, especially appealing on a sunny day, with plenty of seating to enjoy a fresh pint straight from the source. For a deeper dive into the city’s best spots, explore this guide to top Amsterdam bars.
Classic ‘Brown Cafés’ with Genuine Character
If your vision of the best bars in Amsterdam involves a traditional ‘brown café’ – so named for their smoke-stained walls and cozy, lived-in feel – then Café Chris is a must-visit. Claiming to be the oldest pub in Amsterdam, dating back to 1624, it exudes history from every wooden beam. Located in the charming Jordaan district, it’s small, intimate, and often packed with locals. There’s no fancy menu here, just a solid selection of local beers, spirits, and a chance to experience a slice of authentic Amsterdam life. Don’t expect craft beer flights or elaborate cocktails; come for the atmosphere and the genuine connection to the city’s past.
Another excellent example of a traditional brown café is Papeneiland. Also nestled in the Jordaan, on the corner of Prinsengracht, this café has been serving drinks since 1641. It’s famous for its small, curved bar, its historical significance (it’s said a secret tunnel once connected it to a Catholic church during times of religious persecution), and its friendly, no-frills atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Dutch beer, perhaps a local genever, and watch the canal boats drift by. Both Café Chris and Papeneiland offer a truly unpretentious and historically rich drinking experience, far removed from the more overtly tourist-oriented establishments.
Bars for Cocktails and a Modern Vibe
While Amsterdam is celebrated for its beer culture, the city also boasts a sophisticated modern bar scene, particularly for cocktails. For those seeking the best bars in Amsterdam with a contemporary edge and expertly crafted drinks, Tales & Spirits is a standout. This bar is renowned for its imaginative cocktail menu, where each drink tells a story, and the presentation is as impressive as the taste. The interior is quirky and theatrical, creating an experience that’s both fun and refined. Reservations are highly recommended, as it’s a popular spot for a reason.
Another excellent choice for a more upscale, modern drinking experience is Flying Dutchmen Cocktails. Located near Central Station, this bar focuses on classic cocktails executed with precision and flair. The bartenders are true masters of their craft, using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to create perfect drinks. The atmosphere is sleek and elegant, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated evening out. While the price point is higher, the quality of the drinks and the expertise of the staff make it a worthwhile indulgence for cocktail aficionados.
The Verdict: Your Best Amsterdam Bar Experience
Ultimately, the best bars in Amsterdam depend on what you’re looking for, but a clear winner emerges when balancing authenticity, quality, and a truly Dutch experience. If you are a craft beer enthusiast seeking an unparalleled selection of local brews, Café Arendsnest is the absolute top choice. Its dedication to Dutch craft beer, knowledgeable staff, and inviting atmosphere make it a truly exceptional destination.
For those prioritizing a deep dive into Amsterdam’s rich history and traditional pub culture, Café Chris provides the most authentic brown café experience. Its age, local clientele, and genuine ambiance offer a window into the city’s past that few other places can match. If modern cocktails and a stylish setting are your preference, Tales & Spirits wins for its creativity and exceptional drink craftsmanship. Each of these establishments delivers a specific, high-quality experience, ensuring that whatever your drinking preference, Amsterdam has a definitive ‘best’ for you.
