Coffee & tea – All our local tips

Altmann is a stylish up market restaurant on the outskirts of “The Pijp”, the famous quarter where also our Albert Cuyp Market is located. Altmann has had a change in the kitchen, which changed the menu in a positive way. The menu is original and the dishes are nice.

The staff is extremely well mannered, the wine list is good and large. They have valet parking, which is an extreme asset in the area. But overall I think the restaurant is a bit stiff, and a little bit too pretentious.

What probably didn’t help was the fact, that we were almost the only guests in the restaurant. I have had dinners there twice before when it was packed with guests, which made the ambiance much more loose and happening. For business travelers, it’s a recommendation!

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Altmann | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (French) | 4 course menu € 50.00
Amsteldijk 25 | De Pijp | +31206627777
Mon – Sat 18:00 – 00:00 (Bar Fri – Sat till 03.00)

The Amstel Hotel in Amsterdam, everyone has heart for this famous hotel!

This hotel holds a special place in Dutch history and hearts. Since first opening its doors to guests in 1867, this gracious Amsterdam city centre hotel has come to be renowned as the most prestigious address in The Netherlands. The hotel is located directly at the Amstel River extends a gracious blend of classic elegance and modern luxury. It gives magnificence and residential warmth; step into the grand lobby and the effect is immediate and inspiring.

Doctor Samuel Sarphati took the initiative to build the first grand hotel in Amsterdam in 1863. The intial plan was to build a hotel with four wings, actually only one was build. Although business was slow at first, this changed when Doctor Mezger began to run the hotel. He treated people from all classes of society, but was mainly known for the many eminencies he treated.

For already a long time, the Amstel became famous for hosting royal figures and highly regarded nobles. Throughout the years, the Amstel has welcomed a diverse cast: the Tsar and Tsarina of Russia, England’s Queen Elizabeth, Henry Kissinger, Gustav Eiffel, Walt Disney, Audrey Hepburn, Steven Spielberg, the Rolling Stones, U2 and Robbie Williams etc. EVen our Crown Prince WIllem-Alexander and Maxima held their marriage here.

I used to work here and I know that it is scary to enter the hotel. It is such an overwhelming and prestigious hotel, that every time I only passed by my heart was beating faster. However, I also have learned that persons that want to be treated as human beings come here too!

So, please do not judge too fast, just go there for a coffee or tea. Lunch or high tea in the closed veranda is a spectacular happening. Prices for high tea are from 35 euros; it is expensive, but really worth it.

NB: If you want to book this hotel, you can do this via this link (we get a small commission via our partner. Thank you!)

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Amstel Hotel | Art & culture, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (French) | Lunch € 12.00
Professor Tulpplein 1 | Canals | +31206226060
24 hours daily

Only recently I have discovered how great this place is. I’ve cycled past it for years but never had the urge to go in. This is because the shop doesn’t look very exciting from the outside. It is on a corner and is very small. It is not the sort of place to go if you want a romantic meal; it looks more like a snack bar.

But after hearing several good stories about their food I decided to give it a shot. And I found it’s a great place for lunch, especially if you are suffering from a hangover. Famous is the Broodje Bert. And I must say it is my favourite. It is a large piece of Turkish bread with freshly grilled lamb meatballs. Besides the meat the bread is filled with lettuce, tomato, peppers, and lot of sauce. It takes a bit of work to get down. But I always feel very satisfied after.

Besides the Broodje Bert they also serve several different sandwiches, burgers, and omelets.

As I said the place is very small and it is not very cosy on the inside. Besides from that you will smell like a barbecue if you sit inside. They grill the meat freshly in front of you and this can get a bit smoky. Luckily they do have a very pleasant terrace so you can comfortably sit outside. Even when the weather isn’t that good they have a bit of the terrace which is covered.

So if you’ve had a rough night and you’re heading towards the city centre I would recommend you to give it a shot. There is no better way to start a (hung-over) day!

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Broodje Bert | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Sandwich (cash only) € 6.50
Singel 321 | Canals | +31206230382
08:00 – 17:00 daily

Café Crea is located on the grounds of some of the most beautiful buildings of the University of Amsterdam, and it is a haven for students looking for a break. As the place is divided into three smaller parts, the conversations of the guests do not bounce around against the walls, but fill the rooms with a pleasant humming.

Crea is one of my favorite places to go to when I need to study or write, want to drink coffee and read a newspaper, or drink a beer with fellow students. Located in a quieter part, but right the middle of the centre, it is a perfect base of operations to plan your explorations in.

In the meantime you can enjoy a delicious coffee, French toast, a sandwich or a bowl of soup, or even a decent and decently priced dinner between five and eight-thirty. With a different atmosphere in each of the rooms and a small patio on the canal side, you can be sure to find a spot that fits your mood.

The view from the patio is picturesque in a way that is typical for Amsterdam. Since I have been studying at the UvA, I have found the surroundings of Crea very inspiring. You feel very close to the history of the city and the university. When you are there, take the time to enjoy the atmosphere and stroll around between the university-buildings.

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Café Crea | Art & culture, Bars, Coffee & tea, Theaters, Restaurants (intern.) | Beer € 2.00
Turfdraagsterpad 17 | Old center | +31205251423
Mon – Sat 10:00 – 01:00, Sun 11:00 – 19:00

This is a well-known place in Amsterdam right next to Hotel de L’Europe. A nice looking place from the inside, especially because of the extremely high ceilings.
In the summer this is one of the best outdoor cafes to sit with loads of boats passing by.The beer company Grolsch still owns this building. In the summer you can enjoy your beer on one of the most beautiful terraces of Amsterdam.

In the winter, loads of magazines are there to get you through a rainy or snowy day. You can sit here for hours with one drink without waiters looking at you like “go away or order something else”. Maybe this is because they do not notice you either if you want to order something.

The sandwiches are fine, but personally I would stick to the beverages only, although the chocolate pie is very good.

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Café de Jaren | Bars, Coffee & tea | Coffee € 2.00
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20/22 | Old center | +31206255771
10:00 – 00:00 daily

Café Katoen is a really popular place amongst students. (Katoen means ‘cotton’ but to be honest I don’t no why the cafe has this name.) It is located in the city centre very close to the University of Amsterdam. This is why lots of students find their way to it.

The cafe isn’t very big but it doesn’t seem cramped thanks to all the windows. The room isn’t packed full with tables and chairs. This is a good thing because this makes it feel spacious and relaxed.

On the other hand a lot of times there aren’t any places to sit. This can be a disappointment. There are also a couple of seats at the bar but for the rest it isn’t the kind of place where you can stand with your drink. So whenever I go there and spot an empty table I’m very happy.

As I said the place is mostly visited by students. It opens quite early so in the morning it is a good place for breakfast. As it gets later it gets busier and during the day it is often filled with girls chatting and drinking coffee or having lunch.

In the evening they don’t serve dinner but they do serve small snacks to accompany your drinks. The evening is the busiest time, and the later it gets you have to find yourself lucky to find a seat. At evening time the cafe is filled with guys as well as girls. And lots of groups of students having a drink after a whole day of studying!

I like this cafe very much. The interior is a bit outdated but I guess this has its charm. Also if you aren’t a student it is a nice place for a drink. Right in the city centre but filled with locals.

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Cafe Katoen | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks | Wine € 2.50
Oude Turfmarkt 153 | Old center | +310206262635
Mon – Sat 09:00 – 01:00, Sun 10:00 – 01:00

For years Café Loetje is known for its steak. No, let me rephrase that: the best steak of Amsterdam. Famous with the locals; Amsterdammers and Loetje can not been seen apart from each other.

The old fashioned brown-café interior shows that Loetje has truly kept its authenticity. During the week, especially in weekends, the place gets packed with a varied crowd. Here the atmosphere always feels lively (high noise level) with a local vibe.

Don’t expect an extensive menu. Loetje has basics like steak, sate, hamburger, tuna and schnitzel to offer. Great quality and therefore the menu hasn’t changed in years. That’s all part of Loetje’s successful formula.

The famous (200gr.) steak comes with salad and French fries, for a decent price.

Some of the staff has worked here for years, and that is special because Loetje will celebrate its 33rd year of existence this coming year. The service is friendly, relaxed and efficient. If you’re with a group, make reservations because waiting times up to an hour are no exception.

In summer it’s great to spend some time on the patio and large terrace while enjoying a cold beer. Besides Dutch beers, they have an extended offer of Belgian brews.

Despite the fact Loetje is located near the Museum area, you won’t find too many tourists around here. Blend in with the locals and enjoy the best steak of Amsterdam!

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Cafe Loetje | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (International) | Steak € 16.00
Johannes Vermeerstraat 52 | Oud-Zuid | +31206628173
Mon – Fri 11:00 – 00:00, Sat 17:30 – 00:00

The east of Amsterdam is an area which has become very popular in the last while. More and more students (including myself) and young professionals are moving into this area. And it is noticeable!

There used to be nothing much around here but now more and more nice bars and restaurants are opening their doors. Maxwell is one of them. It is close to the Oosterpark (see the Oosterpark article) and the OLVG hospital and a great place for lunch and a drink during the day, or dinner during the evening. I love to go there for lunch and coffee on a lazy Saturday or Sunday  afternoon.

In the corner of the smallish place are a comfortable sofa and two very comfortable seats. This is definitely the best place to sit down and not get up soon!

Maxwell serves hot and cold drinks and also different lovely sandwiches. For dinnertime they offer a great hamburger ‘To the Max’ amongst other things. In the evening time they also serve snacks to accompany your drinks.

They make great coffee which they also serve to go, although this isn’t something for the early birds because the opening time is 12 o’clock.

The place is small on the inside but there are lots of places to sit and when the weather is good there is quite a big terrace to enjoy. Because the terrace sits on a corner there is sun all day long.

For the smokers they have the terrace heated and they also offer blankets to make sure a smoker doesn’t catch a cold.

Every once in a while they also do live music and different other performances. (Check programming on their website)

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Cafe Maxwell | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Varies) | Main meal € 12.50
Beukenplein 27 | Plantage/Oost | +31207726748
Sun – Thu 12:00 – 01:00, Fri – Sat 12:00 – 02:00/03:00

The cosy Café Proust is located on the charming Noordermarkt, right in the middle of the great atmosphere of the Jordaan and it’s many daily markets.

The interior can be described as no-nonsense, modern and cosy. In fact, Proust recently got a huge makeover! The greens are turned into cosy reds! 
Tourists, locals, students and market visitors drop by to have lunch, dinner, relax for a nice cup of coffee or some beers. On market days the café gets really packed, although the atmosphere remains laid-back.

The menu changes every now and then. The quality is definitely above the average café-level. The Proust Hamburger is a recommendation, and so is the salad/pasta/soup of the day. Something what also should not be forgotten: the quality-price ratio is great! The new chef offers you a superb variety of dishes…even cheese-fondue!

The absolute eye-catcher of Proust is the gigantic pistol-lamp (designed by Hans van Bentem ) above the bar. Madonna has one as well!

In summer you are lucky if you can find yourself a seat outside as the terrace is, unfortunately, quite small. On the other hand, this preserves the intimate atmosphere.

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Café Proust | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (International) | Beer € 2.20
Noordermarkt 4 | Canals | +31206239145
Mon 09:00 – 01:00, Tue – Thu 12:00 – 01:00, Fri – Sun 12:00 – 03:00

I don’t have lots of spectacular things to say about this spot so I’ll just keep it simple. It is simply a really good spot.

The good things are to begin with the location, right on the Nieuwmarkt with views of De Waag. Secondly the reading chairs by the window, very nice! Check out the lunch menu during the day which is tasty and affordable. And last but not least the different kinds of Belgian beers and the nice housewine are worth a try.

Don’t forget to order some bitterballen to go with your drinks and just enjoy!

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Cafe Stevens | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants | lunch € 5.00
Geldersekade 123 | Old center
10:00 – 01:00 daily

I love a good coffee and therefore couldn’t live without the Coffee Company. Luckily there are lots of them in Amsterdam. It’s an Amsterdam company and a bit like our version of Starbucks, but actually I’m happy to say it is a way better version!

Each of the different shops has its charm. But if you like to combine the best coffee with a great atmosphere you will have to be in the 1e van der Helststraat in the area the Pijp. Here it’s always busy with people; together or alone, reading, studying, and catching up with friends. And it all gets even better in the summertime when the big terrace gets the sun nearly all day! The whole neighbourhood sits down here to enjoy the sun, the people, and of course the coffee.

The shop is right next to the Albert Cuyp Market which is one of the best markets in Amsterdam.

The shop has lots of windows so while sitting at the window you will see the world go by. The area is very diverse. Full of young artistic people, students, parents and children, people from all over the world, and lots of old people that have been living in the area from before it became full of buzzing restaurants and bars and when it was just a poor working class neighbourhood. All the

se people come for coffee here which makes it a very inviting and comfortable place, and an important part of the neighbourhood.

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Coffee Company | Coffee & tea | Small latte € 2.50
Eerste van der Helststraat 62b | De Pijp | +31206731769
Mon – Fri 08:00 – 19:00, Sat 09:00 – 19:00, Sun 10:00 – 19:00

I never knew you were able to get good scones in Holland until I went to the Bakkerswinkel. Me and my friends met for lunch and started of having different kinds of savoury sandwiches which were all delicious. There is plenty of choice here and the ingredients used are tasty and fresh. The bread is nice and heavy so you are sure to be satisfied for the rest of the day after you get lunch here.

I have to admit that we were definitely satisfied, but we still couldn’t resist the temptation of ordering a scone as dessert. This was absolutely delicious. They have different kinds of scones, for instant with raisins, chocolate or cherries. They also have a wide range of different sorts of freshly made jam to go with it. Its really very good. And of course the clotted cream just makes it perfect!

De Bakkerwinkel also does high teas for which I think you have to make a reservation in advance. If you’re not that hungry you can of course also drop in for just a cup of coffee although I doubt if you can resist the temptation of all the cakes pies and scones around you!

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De Bakkerswinkel | Coffee & tea, Shopping, Snacks | Scone (jam&cream) € 3.50
Warmoesstraat 69 | Old center | +310204898000
Tue – Fri 08:00 – 18:00, Sat 08:00 – 17:00, Sun 10:00 – 17:00

De Ysbreker is a bar and a restaurant and also a great place to sit during the day. It used to be a theatre as well but those activities had to be moved elsewhere. The Ysbreker is situated at the Amstel River, which must be one of the most beautiful places of Amsterdam. In the summertime the big terrace in the front is great to sit by the water and to watch all the people cycling by…

The café has a vast history. The building used to be a guesthouse where in wintertime the people who broke the ice of the frozen Amstel River used to stay. That building burnt down but the new building kept the original name and is now a place where people go for a drink or something to eat while enjoying the great view of the Amstel River which in present times isn’t frozen over as often as it used to be a couple of hundred years ago.

If the weather isn’t that great it is also very nice to sit inside. I love to sit in the part at the front with the big windows. The view here is as good as when you’re sitting outside. During the day the place is very peaceful with people reading the newspaper and drinking a cup of coffee. Later on it gets a bit more buzzing. When you come in the place doesn’t seem that big bit there is also a large area in the back where you can sit. As I said they have a lot of newspapers to read which is a great way to spend a couple of hours of spare time during the week or on a Sunday afternoon.

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De Ysbreker | Art & culture, Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants
Weesperzijde 23 | Plantage/Oost | +310204681808
Sun – Thu 09:00 – 01:00, Fri – Sat 09:00 – 02:00

I had never heard of Feduzzi Mercado Italiano until a friend took me there to get some lunch. She had been there before and assured me that their ciabatta’s were delicious. And she is right! Their ciabatta’s are mouth watering.

I’ve made it my personal project to try out all of the different kinds. Until now all the ciabatta’s I have tasted were great but one of my favourites must be the ‘Cortina’. This one is with mozzarella and salami. They give you a choice between ordinary salami and spicy salami. I’ve tried them both and like the spicy salami the best. But be aware because it really is very spicy. That combined with the creamy buffalo mozzarella is an absolute treat!

Another of my favourites is the ‘Feduzzi’. This ciabatta is filled with creamy mozzarella, grilled aubergine, and delicious pesto. Writing about it makes me hungry!

Besides ciabatta’s they also sell loads of different ready to eat food like cheeses, meats, pasta salads, and other things. Also the shop has a wall with shelves full of different sorts of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried and fresh pasta, coffee and all different kinds of wine. The area the shop is in is quiet. There isn’t much happening there. People mostly just live there and there are a couple of shops and a few more bars and restaurants.

Still I would recommend you to go there because Feduzzi’s is really worth a try. I’m sure you will not be disappointed!

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Feduzzi | Coffee & tea, Shopping, Snacks | Ciabatta sandwich € 4.00
Scheldestraat 63 | Oud-Zuid | +310206646365
Mon 12:00 – 19:00, Tue – Fri 10:30 – 19:00, Sat 10:00 – 17:00

The lunch is fantastic over here. This restaurant has a trattoria on the Overtoom as well, so you can imagine that the food is of high quality.

It is a Italian restaurant with home made soups, sandwiches like goat cheese, vitello tonato and spicy chicken. They always have fresh fruit juices.

On Sundays there is life jazz music with singers. The place is a little bit small for a band, so it sounds loud, but still it is very nice. The view is great, you overlook the canals and the Waterlooplein.

When it is cold outside and you are done shopping and visiting museums, this is an excellent place to have a tea, coffee or an alcoholic beverage. It is a cosy place to go to.

I already made a few people fan of this lunchroom and I want some more!

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Frenzi | Coffee & tea, Restaurants | Sandwich € 7.00
Zwanenburgwal 232 | Old center | +31204235112
10:00 – 00:00 daily

Gartine is one of my favorites for an unique breakfast, excellent lunch and English high tea. I visited the place several times and mostly for breakfast. All raw products come from the owner’s vegetable garden. I experienced the dishes always as super fresh and of good quality!

The atmosphere is easy and pleasant. Recently I tried to get a grab there, but the place is always packed with people, well that means the business goes very well. Maybe they have to think of a bigger place?

The dishes are served on antique chinaware, which is collected by the owners with tender loving care during the past years. If you like antique chinaware only this is a reason to visit the place!

On top of that Gartine adopted 58 chickens at the foundation ‘Adopt a Chicken’ and these chickens provide the farm fresh eggs. Next to that the staff works with products of the ‘Ark van Smaak’ from Slow Food Netherlands. So when you eat there, you eat ‘eco and green’!

Gartine is in a small alley called ‘Takstee

g’ in the old centre of Amsterdam, between Rokin and Spui.

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Gartine | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Big breakfast € 10.95
Taksteeg 7 | Old center | +31203204132
Tue – Sun 08:00 – 18:00

Right at the canals on the Singel you will have to look carefully not to miss this lovely breakfast & lunch spot. You will recognize it by the little white tables and chairs that stand outside which give you a lovely view of one of the most beautiful parts of the city centre.

Greenwoods is a tiny place is and is owned by an English woman. This woman among other thins surely knows how to bake! The carrot cake, lemon meringue pie and cheesecake are absolutely delicious. I really couldn’t believe it. At one point my boyfriend got so addicted to the carrot cake that he got a slice almost daily. He went out of his way for it, you could say he was out of control!

If you’re not in a hurry you can also try the high tea. You will be spoiled with Great tea and lots of little sandwiches and scones with fresh cream and jam will keep you busy for hours.

Besides for the cakes this is also a great place for a savoury lunch or breakfast. The homemade soda bread is heavy but delicious. The club sandwiches are also a meal in itself. Accompany your food by a big cup of coffee and some fresh orange juice and there is no better way to start of your day.

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Greenwoods | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (breakfast) | Sandwich € 6.00
Singel 103 | Canals | +31206237071
09:30 – 19:00 daily

Hartogs Bakery is an institution in Amsterdam. Lots of people swear by this bakery and don’t get their bread anywhere else.

The bakery exists since 1896 and what makes it special is that exclusively wholemeal flour and no preservatives are used. Their fresh bread tastes so great that you don’t even have to put anything on it! They bake new bread a couple of times a day so you will never leave empty handed.

I’ve recently moved near to the bakery, and while I was cycling to work really early I noticed the bakery was already open, I found out it opens at seven in the morning! I know bakers always start really early but I couldn’t believe this.

So many people love the shop and that makes it always very busy. People usually queue up all day long and the queue usually goes till outside. But it is worth it.

Since less than a year the bakery has opened another shop just a couple of meters around the corner. In this shop (Hartogs sandwiches) they sell sandwiches made of their own delicious bread. The sandwiches are no nonsense, ham cheese, peanut butter etc. sandwiches. It is great for lunch or breakfast.

They also sell cold drinks and coffee but every thing is very simple and basic. Traditional sandwiches which taste so good because the bread is fresh, the sandwich filling is simple but good, and as I said it is all no nonsense. This makes it all very affordable as well.

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Hartogs Bakery | Coffee & tea, Shopping, Snacks | Loaf of bread € 2.00
Ruyschstraat 56 | Plantage/Oost | +310206651295
Mon – Fri 07:00 – 18:00, Sat 06:30 – 16:30

Besides the Amstel Hotel, this is one of the most beautiful and prestigious hotels in Amsterdam!The Grand is filled with heritage listed examples of the city’s history dating back to 1578. In its origin this building was a monastery. Napoleon directed the City Hall on Dam Square in 1808 to Hotel The Grand, because he needed the building to become The Royal Palace.

Created in 1926 by Chris Lebeau, the First Class Marriage Chamber of Amsterdam’s City Hall is a work of art, with its figures and scenes depicting married life. The hotel is centered around the former council chamber, in which Her Majesty Queen Beatrix was married.

The council chamber is the largest convention room in the hotel itself. Robust wooden furniture, carpets, chandeleers all handmade. Bear in mind that the entire building is a historical monument and can not be changed without a legislation.

A small detail is the painting in the restaurant of Karel Appel, a famous painter in the Netherlands. The story about this painting is that after a previous renovation a wall was broken down and this painted wall was behind. After taxation it happened to be of great value.

Right now a part of the hotel is being renovated, but still open.

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Hotel The Grand | Art & culture, Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (French)
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197 | Old center | +31205553111
24 hours daily

NH Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, a five star hotel located right at Dam Square, is a famous building which dates back to 1865. The original owner was Adolph Wilhelm Krasnapolsky, who bought a Polnish coffee location and rebuilded it into a popular restaurant. In 1879 he bought the buildings next door and turned them into hotel rooms. He is the one who invented the Winter Garden (Wintertuin) in the back yard, a hot-house with a glasdome and palms. The architect is G.B. Salm. Glas, iron and electricity were not very common at that time, so the Wintertuin is extraordinary.

The NH Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky has a Summer Garden and a monumental Winter Garden where you can enjoy an extensive buffet breakfast in the morning. In the a-la-carte restaurant Reflet, a varied selection of French style cuisine belle époque is served and in Shibli Bedouin an oriental cuisine. Lunch and high tea are served in the lounge overlooking the Dam, people really love it!

Book a room this website!

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Krasnapolsky Hotel | Art & culture, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (French & Oriental)
Dam 9-15 | Old center | +31205549111
24 hours daily

The unusual, unpretentious coffeehouse Latei is one of Amsterdam’s special gems. What makes Latei so special is that everything in it is for sale (the chairs, tables, cups, walldecoration etc.)!!

The second-hand 60/70s style furniture and other kitsch stuff give Latei its uniqueness. Old-fashioned but of good quality, messy but cosy.
On the background there’s always good music, mostly oldies / classics.

Visit Latei for a tasty nutritious (inexpensive) sandwich (the one with hummus and grilled eggplant is suberb!), a great cup of coffee (with organic milk), a healthy fresh juice or one of the delicious homemade cakes (the apple pie is to die for)!

In addition, you can also have a bowl of soup and on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays Latei serves Indian food. Three tasty versions (also a vegetarian option) for a very affordable price! They use fresh ingredients with great spices.

Haven’t seen enough vintage? Latei has a small shop just around the corner packed with old dolls, clothing, furniture etc. (Geldersekade 60-62).

Another plus is the free wireless Internet access.

Want to know about a fairly well kept secret of Amsterdam? This is it.

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Latei | Coffee & tea, Shopping, Restaurants (Intern.) | Indian dish € 8.00
Zeedijk 143 | Old center | +31206257485
Mon – Wed 08:00 – 18:00, Thu – Fri 08:00 – 22:00, Sat 09:00 – 22:00, Sun 11:00 – 18:00

A downside of living in the district De Baarsjes is that good bars or restaurants are almost non-existent in this part of the city. Fortunately, in 2005 Louter was opened. It has been very popular ever since, because of its excellent location at the border of De Baarsjes.

It is quite a hip place, with a mixed crowd. The interior is nice, although you could have your own opinion about the lamps above the bar. It is excellent for a morning cup of coffee (with homemade coco-cookies) or a drink.

In the weekend they have a hearty breakfast, with croissant, egg and bacon, fresh orange juice and coffee from 10:00 to 12:00. A really pleasant place to sit down and relax (even when you are having a hangover).

The Amsterdam community council is very strict concerning licenses. You are not allowed to stand and drink or drink and smoke on the terrace, everybody should be in at 01.00 hours, otherwise neighbours will complain and the police is on your doormat. However, here it is friendlier, you can sit here on the terrace and drink your wine or beer without any problem. Perfect spot!

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Louter | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (international) | Sandwich € 8.00
De Clerqstraat 82 | Oud-West | +31203892623
Sun – Thu 10:00 – 01:00, Fri – Sat 10:00 – 02:00

P.King used to be a Chinese restaurant but as you walk by there is not much that will remind you of that except the name and the dinner menu. For the rest the style is quite different. It has a sixties style retro feel to it, especially the dining room upstairs which you should really take a look at if you get the chance.

The cafe is open the whole day for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. No matter what time I go, I always enjoy the laid back chill vibe. The menu during the day is quite standard but with a couple of real good choices like for instance the typical Dutch bread with ‘kroketten’.

At dinnertime the menu is Cantonese with lots of different kinds of rice and noodles with chicken and meat to choose from. I really like the sweet and sour chicken. You can choose to have small portions so you can share and try different things.

I like to go here before or after I go to the cinema, for instance the Tuschinski Movie Theatre is really close.

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P.King | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Cantonese) | Main meal € 10,00
Herengracht 515 | Canals | +310203208175
Sun – Thu 09:00 – 01:00, Fri – Sat 09:00 – 03:00

This is the ultimate place for lovers of excellent and fine patisserie. This price winning place is worth the détour. Fine strawberry tarts with creamy underlay is one of their best. A great selection of home baked cookies and chocolates is also part of their assortment.

It is an experience to have a cup of coffee or tea and to choose one of the nice tarts or cakes.

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Patisserie Kuyt | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Coffee or teatime from € 5.00
Utrechtsestraat 109a | Canals | +31206234833
Mon 08:00 – 17:00, Tue – Sat 08:00 – 17:30

The Maasstraat in the south part of Amsterdam is originally a very local street with a bakery, grocery shop and florist for the neighbourhood. But this suddenly changed when Patisserie Tout opened: a fashionable shop with gorgeous cakes & cookies.

They organize small tasting & courses to make desserts or to try out cakes. Herman den Blijker, one of our famous TV chefs, loves the place and passes it on his way from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, to buy his beloved macaroons. And I must admit, the macaroons are worth a detour. Especially the raspberry flavour.

They make a small but attractive apple pie & the red fruit tartlets look divine. So if you are a sweet loving taster, don’t miss on patisserie Tout.

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Patisserie Tout | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Cakes from € 8.00
Maasstraat 105 | Oud-Zuid | +31206762620
Mon – Fri 08:30 – 18:00, Sat 09:30 – 17:30

The beautiful & delicious cakes invite you to be obeyed.

Pompadour has a great location on the corner with the famous Spiegelstraat. It is modern and clean and quite large: a good spot for lunch with delicious lunch dishes.

They became famous thanks to their chocolates & cake. They have great éclairs and lovely apple & apricot tarts. But the famous raspberry a la neige with white chocolate is also tasteworthy.

Pompadour also has a branch in the 9 streets (Huidenstraat 12), with a romantic and Marie Antoinette style.

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Pompadour | Coffee & tea | Cake & drinks p.p. € 12.00
Kerkstraat 148 | Canals | +31203300981
10:00 – 18:00 daily

Singel 404 is an old time favorite of me and most of my friends. It’s a great place for breakfast or lunch mainly because you have loads of choice and in general everything on the menu is fresh and very affordable. They have lots of different kinds of bread and almost every filling you can think of.

Because there is so much to choose from I often get confused and just stick to my favorite: warm goat cheese and chicken. But obviously it is best to just try loads of different things!Besides sandwiches you can also order soups and salads. And of course a wide range of shakes, fruit juices, coffees, or even a glass of wine!

Because Singel 404 is very close to the University of Amsterdam it gets very busy, lots of (female) students take a long lunchbreak here and catch up with their friends. So be prepared to wait a while before you get your table.

It’s best to sit upstairs where it is a bit quieter and you don’t notice all the other hungry people waiting for you to finish! If you go early in the morning or a bit later in the afternoon you can enjoy your food in a more relaxed atmosphere.

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Singel 404 | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Sandwich € 5.00
Singel 404 | Canals | +310204280154
10:30 – 18:00 daily

“Here you buy a dishcloth, trousers or a nice roll”, says Maaike, one of the saleswoman of Sissy-Boy Homeland.

The furniture is partly new and partly ‘brocante’. The department ‘Daily’ has fresh biological bread and cheeses. There is Brandmeesters coffee (famous old Dutch brand) and various olive oils of Amsterdam known olive oil supplier Meeuwig (His slogan: Check your oil levels!). Last but not least you find clothing of Sissy Boy. I love the shop and her attitude to today’s lifestyle.

It is a visit worthwhile, also to see the this rapidly developing area of Amsterdam with modern architecture on the water-shores of Amsterdam.

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Sissy-Boy Homeland | Coffee & tea, Shopping, Snacks | Espressso € 1.70
KNSM-laan 19 | Waterfront/North | +31204181559
Mon – Sat 08:00 – 19:00, Sun 11:00 – 18:00

A “Stientje” is old-fashioned Dutch for a fussy lady who’s always trying to find the best bakery, butcher or cheese shop. This is a typical Dutch lunchroom, a really nostalgic place which really honors the name with their careful selections. Between the prints of Vermeer’s milkmaid and other old Dutch forgeries it is always overcrowded. All items on the tasteful menu are freshly prepared made and there are a lot…

If you come to Holland and you visit Friesland, you have to taste the famous “suikerbrood”. This is sweet bread with sugarcones. No need to go to Friesland for the bread, you can have it here. Please order it, you will be surprised.

I like it here, I can not describe it very clearly, but it is a combination of the menu and the surrounding. It is very relaxing, even though it is crowded. You can have high-tea here as well (little bit too romantic I think, but in March I will try it myself). The girls working here are very busy, but they do the best they can, they are very friendly and let you sit as long as you want.

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Stientjes | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Lunch room) | Sandwich € 4.50
Bilderdijkstraat 140 | Oud-West | +31206185151
Mon – Sat 09:00 – 17:30

STOUT = Naughty! Because rules are there to be broken. Because risky business, the sin and sense go frequently nicely together. Giving meaning to enjoyment, is what restaurant STOUT does! Therefore every guest is a welcome challenge, every product, selected carefully by the Chef, prepared in a stimulating way, every wine a sunny holiday and every employee an individual with a refined feeling for your wishes. Thus it is the challenge, which seduces us and seduction, which we defy.

The kitchen staff is inspired by the international kitchens and trends and is very familiar with the metropolitan and most recent developments, tendencies and developments of high-quality food & beverage products, concepts and formulas. Purely to keep informed; Naughty! He does not obey to fashionable one day trends. We are naughty! , a little bit wrong, a source, to enjoy!
© Website Stout, free translation by author of this article.

Stout is one of my favourites for lunch and I love to go there for a coffee when I finished my shopping in the Haarlemmerstraat.

I like the ‘broodje ½ OM’ in particular, a nice roll with thinly sliced pastrami and cooked calfs liver slices: very Amsterdam! The fresh fruit juices are also very good. The focaccio STOUT, is a cheese melted tuna sandwich is also very good! Coffee’s and espresso’s are of very good quality and delicious.

The service I experienced as personal and friendly, and they changed chefs I will see what happens in the future?

They now have a menu for autum en winter!

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Stout | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (international) | Broodje ½ OM € 7.00
Haarlemmerstraat 73 | Canals | +31206163664
11:00 – 01:00 daily

Quite far in the eastern part of the city you find a cinema/club/pub/restaurant rolled into one. Studio K is located prominently on the Timorplein, in a building that used to be a school for craftsmanship. The building has been beautifully renovated and it looks airy and fresh. The large building houses a budget hotel, and a number of offices for small companies. Studio K is an ambitious project, meant to create a cultural and creative center in a neighborhood that has otherwise very little to offer.

It is located in a part of the Zeeburg quarter that was already quite decent, but in my opinion this little oasis is working its magic on the rest of the district, drawing more creative initiatives to the neighbourhood.

I would not know another place in Zeeburg that is as suitable as Studio K to have a drink or enjoy a movie, but I would in fact take the effort to make the trip to this part of the town to enjoy a beer or a proper meal in a beautiful bar, served by a friendly staff, and to watch a movie if I feel li ke it.

Their selection of films is usually good, although it often includes some reruns. I do not always feel like being in the midst of the rumor of the city and Studio K has all the atmosphere that you need in a quieter part of town.

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Studio K | Bars, Cinemas, Coffee & tea, Festivals & events, Restaurants (International) | Coffee € 1.70
Timorplein 62 | Plantage/Oost | +31206920422
Check programming

Don’t you feel like eating healthy today? Try The Taart van m’n Tante. Translation for: The Pie of my Aunt. Think of your grandmother’s Apple pie, but then better.

This small, cosy, cute place in the area of the Museum Quarter and famous Albert Cuyp market, is always packed with people enjoying a relaxing mid-afternoon tea with one of the homemade cakes on the side.

The fairytale decor of unique, special cakes (think: Disney, Ballet, Flamingo’s, Weddings) makes you even want to try more! I almost tried them all, and I can assure you, they are all extremely delicious!

Varying from chunky chocolate to creamy caramel, topped with whipped cream…Nothing is impossible! Do ask the staff which ones are available as the menu divers every day..

The place to be for sugar-addicts!

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Taart van m’n Tante | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Cakes from € 3.00
Ferdinand Bolstraat 10 | De Pijp | +31207764600
10:00 – 18:00 daily

Approximately 50 meters from the “Nederlandsche Bank” and the attractive “Utrechtsestraat” (check the Utrechtsestraat article) you will find the Weteringschans, where also the just newly opened Hotel V is located. This place is located in a bit of a deserted location, as far as you can talk about a deserted location in energetic Amsterdam…

Here you’ll find a very charming spot called Uliveto. It’s an Italian franchise concept, which is hardly known. Fresh ingredients & good looking food is the credo here. Recently two staff members took over the place from the first owner Conny. It is even better than before, opening times changed and longer.

For lunch I would recommend to ask her to make your choice: probably a great plate with antipasti and a nice salad, and maybe just a small warm dish on the side for mouth-watering moments. Served with nice wine or delicious water, a very healthy utterly light sparkling water from the Uliveto brand.

Her pasta with Ragu, is also not to miss. The place is nice, clean & in a way industrial. A real fat cat to accessorize and take care of the mice ? Enjoy Uliveto! Great place!

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Uliveto | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Italian panini´s, meals and take away) | Italian panini € 5,00
Weteringschans 118 | Canals | +31204230099
Mon – Fri 11:00 – 20:00, Sat – Sun 11:00 – 18:00

Small and elegant at the corner of the Banstraat and Valeriusstraat; that’s Valerius.

A place to go to for breakfast, lunch and after work drinks. If you have something to celebrate, small parties are welcome, but please call a little in advance.

The interior is modern and elegant. Beautiful photos decorate the walls.

Breakfast is a feast with many choices. Lunch offers a range of nice salads, tosti’s, egg-dishes, slices of bread sandwiches with delicious fillings and toppings and interesting finishing sweets.

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Valerius Eten & Drinken | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks | Breakfast € 8.00
Banstraat 14 | Oud-Zuid | +31204713976
Mon – Fri 09:00 – 18:00

Walem is the place to be, when you are in the mood for great drinks, sandwiches on the canalside with a great terrace. They serve smoothies, but also a good white house wine. The famous dutch bitterballs and the tuna sandwich are also good.

To kick off after a hangover, start the morning with their nice and tasting croques. But best of all is the location and the gorgeous staff. Cute waiters in black, serving with a smile.

In summertime they have a nice terrace next to the canal, so waiters have to cross the road and sometimes that causes a traffic …!

It’s next to the Famous Metz & Co on the corner of the Leidsestraat and the Keizersgracht: hard to miss!

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Walem | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (International) | Lunch € 25.00
Keizersgracht 449 | Canals | +31206253544
10:00 – 17:00 & 18:00 – 22:30 daily

It is a (maybe even the most) culinary highlight in this neighbourhood. The clientele here is a little old, but everyone is lovely and so nice. I try to come here every two weeks, because I really love this place.

The entire atmosphere of this small shop/lunch room is great. Lots of wine bottles are stalled in the front of the lunch room. In the back there is the showcase with all kinds of sandwich filling. On the right there are small tables were you can sit nicely. Everybody joins, so if you need privacy, you better go somewhere else. Sometimes you have to shift tables, because the wine cellar is underneath your place.

The staff are the two owners, Hans and Trees, and other great people who really make your lunch unforgettable. They do not only take your order, they make it a pleasant memory. You can order highly qualitative sandwiches like wild salmon, Dutch shrimps, foie gras, paté, different kind of hams (serrano, parma) etc.

Furthermore they sell an excellent selection of wines in different price ranges. And of course, lunch does not come here without a glass of wine.

Were can you still find a perfect spot like this? Last week I was here; and again, perfect!!!

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Warmolts | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Lunch) | Lunch from € 4.00
Maasstraat 72 | Oud-Zuid | +31206620448
Tue – Fri 09:00 – 18:00, Sat 09:00 – 17:00

You can find Wolvenstraat by the address because this bar basically has no name. Locals just refer to the bar as ‘Wolvenstraat 23′, but you won’t miss it as it’s located in the popular 9 street district.

Atmosphere is created by the laidback crowd, art on the walls, furry pillows and blankets, retro-styled interior and the friendly cat who sleeps undisturbed. Comfortable enough to stay lounging till cocktail hour starts or even longer..!

This may not be the place for an extensive diner, but for some high quality bites it’s definitely worth visiting. The Thai salad is suberb and so is the cheesecake.
Service is friendly and polite.

At night, the perfect place to go for a beer, wine or exciting cocktail! The mix of trendy young locals and expats make this bar an absolute ‘place to be’, but then with the lack a ’seen and want to be seen’ atmosphere. Think relaxed and cosy with suitable music.

A reliable place with delicious food and a great atmosphere!

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Wolvenstraat | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants | 3 course menu € 17.00
Wolvenstraat 23 | Canals | +31203200843
Mon – Thu 08:00 – 01:00, Fri 08:00 – 02:00, Sat 09:00 – 02:00, Sun 10:00 – 01:00