Speciality Coffee and the Best Bars in Amsterdam

Coffee Tasting and Coffee Shops in Amsterdam

Every coffee aficionado ought to visit Geels & Co, which offers more than 25 varieties of coffee and a staggering 150 blends of teas. For over 150 years, the Geels family have traded and sold coffee and tea at their shop, located on the narrow Warmoestraat in the Red Light District, just behind the Oude Kerk. After visiting the impressive church, refuel here with a speciality coffee and some delicious Dutch treats.
Just five minutes away from the Oude Kerk you can find Dam Square and Central Station. On Dam Square, there are many appealing attractions such as Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, the National Monument and the Royal Palace.
For your next coffee pitstop, there are several cafes on Dam Square or Rembrandtplein such as Cafe de Dam and Cafe Langereis. Vascobelo V-Bar Amsterdam is another great option. The original cafe opened in Antwerp and now, Amsterdam has one, too. If you love books, this is a delightful place to read, whilst you enjoy your gourmet cup of coffee. They also sell Kopi Luwak, an exclusive coffee that you should try at least once in your life. Kopi Luwak is in fact not a variety of coffee but a type of processing that uses beans that have been eaten, digested and defecated by civets cats in Asia. If curious, here you have a chance to sample it for yourself.

Other top specialty coffee houses that you should visit if you have time include Espressofabriek, Tazzina, Two for Joy Coffee Roasters and Screaming Beans, with the latter hosting regular 'cupping' or tasting sessions and masterclasses led by experienced baristas.
Organised coffee tours can be booked through Pure Amsterdam, costing €17.50 per person with a minimum of 10 participants required. Coffee as well as chocolate tasting is followed by a visit to the Coffee & Tea Museum.

Best Bars in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is overflowing with cool and unique bars serving great drinks. Many places offer food as well, should you want more than the olive that comes with your martini.
Visit the Vesper Bar on Vinkenstraat to admire the cool James Bond memorabilia. Try the refined Vesper Martini or the mean Mezcal Fix. Vesper Bar has a great selection of drinks and a laid-back ambiance which is great for unwinding or starting a night out.
Located on Gravenstraat, Cafe Belgique specialises in Belgian beers, offering more than 50 types in bottle and 8 on tap. With a hip and diverse clientele, the atmosphere is cosy and informal, making this a great place to people watch in, or to plan the night ahead.
To drink with the locals, head to Proeflokaal de Ooievaar on Sint Olofspoort. This intimate bar and cafe offers excellent drinks with equally excellent names such as Parrot Soup, Forget Me Not and the famous Bridal Tears.
Another tip is Cafe Pollux Amsterdam on Prins Hendrikkade. It has been around since 1875 and today is run by a charismatic couple named Frits and Tanja. The charmingly decorated bar has a vibrant atmosphere, good food, fantastic service and great music. It is no wonder visitors keep coming back for more whether it be a cup of Joe or a shot of vodka.
Brunch in Amsterdam is fast becoming an institution, so for slice of brunch culture, Amsterdam-style, try G's Brunch Boat. Amongst the three G's locations in the city, the brunch boat is certainly the most original place to dine. Running all year round, the Brunch Boat offers a fun way to eat whilst taking in some of the sights. The menu includes brunch favourites such as eggs Benedict and their Bloody Marys are worth the visit alone. The boat departs from the Homomonument, close to the Anne Frank House, and last for around two hours.
Whether your after a caffeine fix or a refreshing cocktail, Amsterdam has many great places in which to quench your thirst.

Planning your trip to Amsterdam? Check out our favorite downtown hotels in Amsterdam.

Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!