Best Beer Buying Options In Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a beer lover's paradise, with its unique beer lingo, a variety of craft beers, and a vibrant bar culture. The Dutch usually serve beer in smaller glasses, and ordering a beer in Dutch can be confusing for foreigners. However, the city offers a range of options for those looking to buy and enjoy a cold one. From well-known breweries like Heineken to independent breweries like Brouwerij 't IJ and Oedipus Brewery, there is something for everyone. Amsterdam also boasts craft beer bars such as Proeflokaal Arendsnest, which serves only Dutch beers, and BeerTemple, which offers a wide range of American craft beers. For those looking to buy beer to enjoy at home, stores like Sterk and Bierkoning offer a vast selection of local and international beers.

Where can I buy beer in Amsterdam?

Best craft beer bars in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a thriving craft beer scene, with new, cool and contemporary microbreweries popping up all the time. From canal-side hangouts to industrial spaces, there's plenty of choice for beer lovers. Here are some of the best craft beer bars in the city:

Brouwerij 't IJ

Probably the most famous independent brewery in Amsterdam, Brouwerij 't IJ is located underneath the city's tallest windmill. It has a large terrace and a rustic, cosy interior. They offer private tasting sessions and tours, and their beers are served in pubs across the city. Their standard beers include an IPA, a Belgian blonde, a full-bodied wheat beer, and a strong stout.

De Prael

De Prael is one of the city's oldest microbreweries, with several locations in Amsterdam and beyond. Their original spot in the Red Light District is a repurposed former auction house, adding to its rustic charm. They offer 11 different brews, including Bitterblonde and I.P.A, and their cosy taproom has tiled walls, retro lighting, and vintage furniture.

Butcher's Tears

One of the newest additions to the city's microbrewing scene, Butcher's Tears is located in a secluded, industrial spot in the Zuid neighbourhood. They brew experimental beers with bold and inventive flavours, such as "Lipreader" and "The Flying Bed".

Oedipus Brewing

Oedipus Brewing is located in Amsterdam Noord and was started by four friends with a passion for beer. They serve creatively crafted beers with an edge, such as Thai Thai, a sweet and spicy beer brewed with Thai ingredients, and Mannenliefde, a lemongrass and Szechuan pepper Saison. Their taproom has a killer terrace that fills up fast in the summer.

Bierfabriek

Bierfabriek is a warehouse-style space with a set of gleaming copper brewing tanks as its centrepiece. They brew two beers onsite: ROSSO, a red ale, and NERO, a dark porter. They also offer PUUR, an unfiltered pilsner brewed by a small Dutch brewery, Alfa. Bierfabriek has tap tables, allowing you to pour your own beer, and a small menu of typical Dutch pub snacks.

Proeflokaal Arendsnest

Located along the picturesque Herengracht canal, Proeflokaal Arendsnest is a traditional Dutch tasting room with old-timey décor and waistcoat-clad bartenders. They offer over 50 Dutch beers on tap and more than 100 bottled beers, and the knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you through the options.

Café Gollem

Café Gollem may look like a classic Dutch brown café, but it's actually a beer lover's paradise. With several locations across the city, each with its own unique atmosphere, they specialise in Belgian beers. Their original bar boasts over 200 bottled beers and ten brews on tap, and they also offer super-strong Trappist beers and cheese plates.

Brouwerij Troost

With four locations around Amsterdam, Brouwerij Troost has a wide range of excellent craft brews and delicious homemade lemonades. Their original brewery is located in a former monastery in the De Pijp neighbourhood, and they offer guided tours and excellent food, with each menu item paired with a beer recommendation.

In De Wildeman

In De Wildeman is housed in a former distillery that dates back to 1690 and has retained its old-world charm. They offer more than 200 bottled beers and around 18 on tap, focusing on Belgian and Dutch beers, particularly Trappist ales. They also stock a selection of German, English, and American brews.

The Bar by Gebrouwen door Vrouwen

Gebrouwen door Vrouwen ("Brewed by Women") was started by two beer-loving sisters, and has since expanded significantly. They produce interesting and innovative beers, such as a pale, wheat beer brewed with gin spices, and a light pale ale with a spicy ginger twist. Their intimate bar in Amsterdam Oud-West has 12 taps and a lovely sun terrace.

Best bottleshop/craft beer store in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a thriving craft beer scene, with many bottle shops and breweries to choose from. Here are some of the best places to buy craft beer in the city:

Sterk

Located on de Clercqstraat, Sterk is a highly recommended bottle shop with an impressive selection of beers. With over 1300 different beers available in-store and 300 local beers, you're sure to find something to your taste. They also offer delicious pretzels and barley wine cheese. Sterk is open late, usually until 4 am, making it a convenient spot for a late-night beer run.

De Bierkoning

De Bierkoning is an institution in Amsterdam's beer culture. Founded in the '80s with the goal of introducing special beers to the Netherlands, this bottle shop has played a pivotal role in promoting small, independent breweries. While their selection may not be as extensive as Sterk's, they still offer a wide range of beers, and their staff is knowledgeable and friendly. De Bierkoning's impact on the city's craft beer scene cannot be overstated.

Black Magic Bottle Shop

Located in the east of Amsterdam, Black Magic Bottle Shop is a fantastic spot with a limited opening hour but a fantastic selection of craft beers. If you're able to visit during their operating hours, you'll be treated to a wide array of unique beers.

Brouwerij 't IJ

Perhaps the most famous independent brewery in Amsterdam, Brouwerij 't IJ is an essential destination for beer enthusiasts. Iconically located underneath the city's tallest windmill, this brewery offers rustic charm and a variety of flagship brews, including Zatte and Natte. In the summer, a large terrace provides a spacious outdoor drinking area, while private tasting sessions and tours are available for those seeking a more intimate beer experience.

Oedipus Brewery Taproom

Started by four friends with a passion for beer, Oedipus Brewery is a colourful craft brewery in Amsterdam Noord. They produce a creative range of beers, from the easy-drinking 'Mama' pale ale to the aptly named 10.5% proof 'Kinderyoga'. Visit their taproom to sample a variety of Oedibrew on tap and experience the full range of their unique offerings.

With so many fantastic options, Amsterdam is a beer lover's paradise, offering something for everyone, from local specialities to international craft beers.

Cheap drinks in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is sprinkled with bars, but not all of them are expensive. Here are some of the best spots for cheap drinks in the city.

De Pilsener Club

De Pilsener Club is one of the best spots for a cheap afternoon beer in the city centre. Located right next to the Kalverstraat shopping street, the bar is surprisingly peaceful. The interior is old, with a vintage feel, and the bar itself feels like a back alcove. The bar has wrinkled lithographs of the city and peeling wallpaper, but the selection of tasty brews is impressive. Each beer is served in the appropriate glass and labelled with the correct name. De Pilsener Club is also known as 'Engelse Reet'—ask your bartender what it means!

Kriterion

Kriterion is a trendy arthouse cinema with an impressive movie selection and a nice bar serving extremely cheap beer. It's a classic in the city, always lively and busy, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a fusion of arthouse cinema and a student bar, with the bar operated by students. The interior is both classic and classy.

Sound Garden

Sound Garden is super-chilled, with a breathtaking back terrace that becomes a balcony at night. The bar has a spectacular view and is passionate about music. It's welcoming and unpretentious, with a pool table, table soccer, and pinball machines.

Café Belgique

Café Belgique is the most famous Belgian bar in Amsterdam, with a laid-back atmosphere, rustic decor, brass taps, and a wooden counter. The bar offers eight great beers on draught, including Le Trappe and La Chouffe, and a variety of bottled beers, mostly from Belgium. The prices are surprisingly cheap for the quality. It's a very small place with only six stools at the bar and two or three tables, with the option to sit outside. The bar is dimly lit with candles, and the atmosphere is rustic and traditional.

Hannekes Boom

Hannekes Boom is a beach hut in the heart of the city, surrounded by water and with jaw-dropping waterside terraces. The bar is decorated with second-hand items, with a bohemian charm. The prices are decent and the food is good. It's packed with locals in their 20s and 30s who arrive by boat.

Flying Pig Downtown Bar

The Flying Pig Downtown Bar is a busy, crowded spot with a wide clientele, situated in the famous Flying Pig Hostel. The bar is a bit grungy, with an affordable menu. There's a DJ, and the bar hosts famous themed parties that are wild. During the day, the atmosphere is cozy and relaxing, full of backpackers.

Other Spots

Other recommended places for cheap drinks in Amsterdam include Café De Minds, a real punk bar with cheap beer, good music, and pinball; Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a specialist craft beer bar exclusively stocking Dutch brews; and Vereniging De Trut, a former squatters-place with cheap drinks and a young, artistic, creative, and humorous crowd.

Beer tasting in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great place for beer lovers, with a wide range of options for beer tasting. Here is a guide to help you navigate the city's beer scene and find the best spots to enjoy a cold one.

Breweries

Amsterdam is home to several breweries, both large and small, that offer a unique beer tasting experience. Here are some notable ones:

• Brouwerij 't IJ: Perhaps the city's most famous independent brewery, located under the iconic windmill in Oost. It offers a rustic setting, private tasting sessions, and tours.
• Brouwerij De Prael: Located in the heart of one of the city's oldest areas, this brewery takes a traditional approach to brewing, selecting and grinding their own grains and malts. They offer guided tours followed by boat tours where you can sample their beers.
• Brouwerij Troost: With three locations in Amsterdam, this popular brewery offers a wide range of beers, from refreshing New England IPAs to homemade lemonade. They also provide guided tours and comfort food to complement your drink.
• Brouwerij Kleiburg: A social enterprise located in a small living community in Zuidoost, where a portion of the profits goes back into community activities. They offer a variety of beers, including Porter Saison, Tripel IPA, and Quadruple Poorter.
• Brouwerij Homeland: A relatively new brewery located in a hotel and restaurant with a beautiful waterfront view. They specialize in additive-free beers and have already gained popularity with their Katzwijm IPA and Kielzog Tripel.
• De Bierfabriek: A unique spot that combines a brewery and a restaurant, offering world-class house-brewed beers and hearty dishes like slow-roasted chicken. It has a cosy atmosphere, with self-serve tap tables that make it stand out.
• Brouwerij de 7 Deugden: A special brewery that employs those who face challenges finding work. They create unique beers using a mix of herbs and spices, such as Ruw+Bolster with a hint of lime and Stout-Moedig, infused with coffee beans. Tastings and tours are available by request.
• Oedipus Brewery: A colourful craft brewery started by four friends, producing a range of creative beers from the easy-drinking 'Mama' pale ale to the aptly named 10.5% proof 'Kinderyoga'. Their recently opened taproom offers a full Oedipus experience, with a variety of beers on tap.

Beer Bars and Pubs

In addition to breweries, Amsterdam has a vibrant craft beer bar and pub scene:

• Proeflokaal Arendsnest: A traditional Dutch pub on Herengracht serving only Dutch beers from over 50 breweries, with more than 100 bottled beers available. Their basement tasting room regularly hosts beer-tasting events, making it the perfect place to explore local brews.
• In de Wildeman: Housed in a former distillery dating back to 1690, this bar retains its old-world charm. It offers an extensive selection, with over 200 bottled beers and around 18 on tap, focusing on Belgian Trappist ales and local Dutch breweries.
• BeerTemple: A speciality beer bar in the inner city, attracting beer enthusiasts from all over. They have a wide range of beers on draft and bottled, with a strong focus on American craft beers and ales from US microbreweries. Their house beer, Tembelbier, offers a local flavour.
• Poesiat & Kater: A charming brewery and tasting room located in a historic site in Amsterdam-Oost. Brewer Julián Álvarez Zárate, a yeast specialist, creates speciality beers and has resurrected the legendary Van Vollenhoven beer. You can enjoy these alongside a delicious meal.
• Café Tabac: A cosy spot in the Jordaan district, perfect for grabbing a beer and soaking up the local atmosphere.
• Café Kalkhoven: A downtown gem with a charming sidewalk terrace, ideal for people-watching and enjoying a drink.

Beer Shops

If you're looking to purchase beer to enjoy at home or as a souvenir, here are some recommended shops:

• Sterk: Located on de Clercqstraat, this shop offers a vast selection of beers, with over 1300 options available, including many local brews. They are open late and are known for their friendly and knowledgeable staff.
• De Bierkoning: Founded in the '80s to introduce special beers to the Netherlands, this shop has played a pivotal role in the country's beer culture. While their hours may be limited, they offer a wide range of beers and are worth a visit.
• Black Magic Bottle Shop: Located in the east of Amsterdam, this shop has limited opening hours but boasts a fantastic selection of beers.

Additional Tips

When ordering a beer in Amsterdam, it's good to know some local lingo to avoid surprises. The Dutch tend to serve beer in smaller glasses, and knowing how to ask for the right size can be helpful. Here are some useful phrases:

• " Mag ik een biertje? _(May I have a beer?)_ Een biertje? _(A beer?)_ Mag ik een pils? (May I have a beer?) Een pilsje? (A beer?)_
• For a small glass, use the double diminutive: _Mag ik een kleintje pils? (May I have a small beer?) Een kleintje? (A small one?)_

Lastly, don't miss the famous Heineken Experience, especially if you're a fan of this world-renowned Dutch beer. You can also combine it with a canal cruise for a unique perspective of the city.

Beer brewing in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great place for beer lovers, with a wide variety of breweries, beer shops, and pubs to choose from. Here is an overview of the beer brewing scene in the city:

Breweries

Amsterdam is home to several renowned breweries, each with its own unique character and selection of beers. Here are some of the top breweries in the city:

• Heineken Experience: One of the most famous breweries in Amsterdam, offering a great experience with a large selection of beers and a rooftop bar.
• Brouwerij de Prael: Known for its large selection of beers and a small wine list.
• Walhalla Brewery and Taproom: Features an excellent range of beers and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Oedipus Brewing Taproom: Serves freshly brewed beers and offers a great variety, including IPAs, sours, ales, and stouts.
• Brouwerij Homeland: A small brewery with a warm and social atmosphere and delicious tasting beers.
• Brouwerij De 7 Deugden: A brewery with a social character and a wide range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and ales.
• Butchers Tears: An independent bar with a brewery in the next room, offering a range of beers from pales to stouts.

Beer Shops

If you're looking for a place to buy beer to enjoy at home or on the go, Amsterdam has some excellent options:

• Sterk: Located on de Clercqstraat, Sterk offers a vast selection of beers, with knowledgeable and friendly staff.
• De Bierkoning: Founded to introduce special beers to the Netherlands, showcasing small, independent breweries. While the selection may not be as extensive as Sterk, it is still a great place to find unique beers.
• Black Magic Bottle Shop: Located in the east of Amsterdam, this shop offers a fantastic selection of beers, although its opening hours are limited.

Pubs and Cafes

Amsterdam's pubs and cafes are an integral part of the city's culture, and many offer a wide range of beers on tap and by the bottle:

• Café Tabac: A cosy pub in the Jordaan district, perfect for enjoying a beer and people-watching.
• Café Gollem: A well-known beer bar with a great bottle shop nearby.
• Cafe Kalkhoven: A downtown pub with a charming sidewalk terrace.

When ordering a beer in Amsterdam, it's worth noting that the Dutch typically serve their beers in smaller glasses than in some other countries. Knowing some basic Dutch can also be helpful when ordering, as the bartenders may use different terms for beer sizes. For example, ordering a "biertje" will usually get you a small glass of the house beer on tap.

Frequently asked questions