If you're into radical ideas, independent publishing, or just curious about a different kind of bookshop, don’t miss Het Fort van Sjakoo in Amsterdam’s city centre, close to Waterlooplein. This bookstore has been around since 1977. Originally located in a squatted building on a site once marked for a highway that was thankfully never built, the bookstore is housed today in a legalized space, run with passion by a collective of dedicated volunteers.
Het Fort van Sjakoo is a place where you will find shelves packed with books on leftist politics, social movements, history, and critical thought, along with international titles, magazines, and music. It’s more than just a shop; it’s also a space for discovery, conversation, and activism. The volunteers are friendly and can offer advice or simply a good conversation. If they don’t have what you are looking for, they can place an order for you.
This is one of the amazing spaces that need to be preserved in order to preserve the free spirit of the city, and I hope it stays there for many years to come.
Find your way with 164 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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I know that sounds dramatic, but their pastries are irresistible! Everything is sourdough based, which means they make their own yeast for the bread.
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They have many choices when it comes to sandwiches and their toppings, but I always go for their famous sandwich called 'Broodje Boljeri'...
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This ice cream shop in the heart of the 'De Jordaan' neighborhood, is the absolute best! If you can't decide what you want, try the limoncello ice cream.
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Good beans belongs to the roastery of 'Fucking Strong Cofffee' and they make blends from beans all over the world. Their slogan: It's coffee, not caviar.
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They serve lunch, dinner, and finger food. Their Burrata, which is optional all day, is my personal favorite. And my favorite beer is Saison Dupont.
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There is also a greenhouse where locals can bring their compost. In the other garden, there are bees and apple trees, and they sell their honey as well.
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Zizou stole my heart right away. It is simple, yet you get exactly what you need: a good coffee, a chill moment, and a friendly face.
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