In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best brown cafes in the city, divided into classic brown cafes and trendy newcomers. Both have their own unique atmosphere and appeal, making them must-visits for locals and tourists alike.
Ready to discover your next favorite brown pub? Dive into our comprehensive city guide to the best brown pubs in Amsterdam!
Classic Brown Cafes in Amsterdam
These beloved spots have been around for years and are a key part of Amsterdam’s vibrant bar scene. With their cozy atmospheres, wooden interiors, and a great selection of Dutch beers and jenever, they offer an authentic taste of the city’s pub culture. Enjoy traditional Dutch snacks like bitterballen, or simply unwind with a drink, these brown cafes are the perfect places to experience the true charm of Amsterdam.
In ‘t Aepjen
Thu–Tue: 14:00–01:00, Fri–Sat: 14:00–03:00, Wed: 14:00–01:00 | Zeedijk 1
Located in one of the oldest buildings in the city, this cafe has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The cafe’s unique character makes it a special place to enjoy a drink (or two). Don’t miss the chance to chat with the friendly staff; they always have great stories about the cafe’s past!
Café Nol
Wed, Thu & Sun: 8 PM – 3 AM; Fri & Sat: 8 PM – 4 AM | Westerstraat 109
Located in the vibrant Jordaan district, Café Nol is the most famous brown cafe in Amsterdam. In the evenings and on weekends, this iconic pub truly comes alive. Expect traditional Dutch folk singers (volkszangers) classic songs from the Jordaan, a historic neighborhood in Amsterdam known for its rich musical culture. Don’t be surprised if the friendly bar staff joins in with a song or two.
Cafe Papeneiland
Opening hours: Mon–Sat: 10:00–01:00, Sun: 12:00–01:00 | Prinsengracht 2
Located in the heart of the Jordaan, Cafe Papeneiland is set in a beautiful, classic Amsterdam building. Inside, it’s warm and cozy, but if the weather is nice, sitting outside is a real treat. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and watch the world go by. And of course, their famous apple pie is a must-try!
Café Bolle Jan
Mon – Thu: 9 PM – 3 AM; Fri & Sat: 8 PM – 4 AM; Sun: 8 PM – 3 AM | Korte Reguliersdwarsstraat 3
Tucked away near the lively Rembrandtplein, Café Bolle Jan is a legendary brown café. This is the spot for traditional Dutch music culture, offering live performances every evening. Hungry after an evening of dancing and singing? Be sure to try the iconic Dutch croquette at Van Dobben, located right next door!
Proeflokaal A. van Wees
Mon – Thu & Sun: 12 PM – 11 PM; Fri & Sat: 12 PM – 1 AM | Herengracht 319
Since 1973, this iconic brown café has offered a unique experience with 17 types of genever, over 50 liqueurs, and expertly crafted kopstoot combinations. Pair your drink with traditional bar snacks and dive into Amsterdam’s historic genever culture.
Café Hoppe
Mon – Thu & Sun: 9 PM – 1 AM; Fri & Sat: 9 PM – 2 AM | Spuistraat 18-20
Café Hoppe is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most iconic brown cafés, with a rich history dating back to 1670. Located on Spuistraat, this traditional pub offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks throughout the day, whether you’re having a quick bite or soaking in the historic ambiance. Café Hoppe is also known for hosting popular events, such as the Hoppe Street Festival in June, a favorite among locals.
Café Tante Roosje
Mon: 10 AM – 12 AM; Tue – Thu: 10 AM – 1 AM; Fri & Sat: 10 AM – 2 AM; Sun: 10 AM – 12 AM | Rembrandtplein 5
Located at the bustling Rembrandtplein, Café Tante Roosje offers an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The café serves comforting dishes, like homemade soups and sandwiches. On Fridays and Saturdays, enjoy live music that adds to the energetic charm of this beloved local spot.
Cafe de Dokter (1798)
Mon–Sat: 16:00–00:00 | Rozenboomsteeg 4
Also known as “Het Doktertje,” this small and cozy bar is full of history. It used to be a meeting place for artists, poets, and musicians. With its dark wood, vintage decorations, and walls covered in old photos and objects, it’s a great spot to experience real Dutch culture. It’s like stepping back in time, and perfect for a drink in a unique setting!
Café Lowietje
Fri: 2 PM – 12 AM | Sat: 3 PM – 1 AM | Sun: 3 PM – 12 AM | Derde Goudsbloemdwarsstraat 2
Experience authentic Amsterdam charm at Café Lowietje, a Jordaan icon since 1954. Known for its role in the Dutch TV series Baantjer and its original décor, this brown café offers live music from local talents. Sing along to classic Jordaan songs or enjoy a cold beer with the locals. A must-visit for anyone seeking true Amsterdam pub culture.
Elsa’s Café
Mon-Thurs & Sun: 11 AM – 1 AM | Fri-Sat: 11 AM – 2 AM | Middenweg 73
Elsa’s Café in Amsterdam Oost has been a local favorite for decades, offering a warm and welcoming ambiance with a sun-drenched terrace. Every Tuesday, enjoy live jazz with Elsa’s Trio and guest performances. Elsa’s also hosts events for Ajax football games and concerts at the Amsterdam Arena. Whether you’re there for the food, music, or sports, Elsa’s Café is a must-visit for a true Amsterdam experience.
Proeflokaal Arendsnest
Mon-Thurs & Sun: 12 PM – 12 AM | Fri-Sat: 12 PM – 1 AM | Herengracht 90
Proeflokaal Arendsnest is a hotspot for beer enthusiasts and one of Amsterdam’s top brown cafés. With 52 Dutch beers on draft, over 100 bottles and cans, and more than 20 varieties of jenever, it showcases the finest in local craft brewing. Its historic interior and knowledgeable staff make it the perfect spot to discover new favorites.
Cafe de Druif
Opening hours: Mon–Sat: 12:00–01:00, Sun: 12:00–23:00 | Rapenburgerplein 83
This historic cafe used to be where sailors signed up for voyages with the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Today, it’s a cozy spot to relax with a Dutch beer and some bitterballen. With its warm atmosphere and rich history, it’s the perfect place to soak up a bit of Amsterdam’s past while enjoying a drink!
Modern Brown Cafes in Amsterdam
While the classic brown cafes are iconic, new spots are popping up across Amsterdam that blend tradition with modern flair. These trendy newcomers combine the charm of a bruine kroeg with contemporary design and an innovative drinks menu. These cafes are becoming increasingly popular among both locals and tourists.
Café Fonteyn
Mon-Thurs & Sun: 10 AM – 1 AM | Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 2 AM | Nieuwmarkt 13-15
Café Fonteyn is a local favorite for students and residents, known for its sunny terrace and vintage charm. Spend the day here enjoying delicious pub snacks like pita cheese toasties and Peking duck bitterballen. Be sure to try their exclusive beer brewed in collaboration with De Eeuwige Jeugd — a must for beer lovers!
Bar Bonnie
Mon-Wed & Sun: 10 AM – 12 AM | Thurs: 10 AM – 1 AM | Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 3 AM | Amstelveenseweg 226H
Bar Bonnie offers a modern twist on the traditional Amsterdam brown café, combining cozy vibes with stylish interiors. Enjoy French-inspired bistro dishes like steak frites or corvina fillet, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The large terrace is ideal for sipping local beers and wines, especially in summer.
Café R. de Rosa
Wed-Thurs: 12 PM – 11 PM | Fri-Sat: 12 PM – 12 AM | Sun: 12 PM – 10 PM | Boomstraat 41A
A community-focused café with a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy events like brocante markets and special evenings for elderly locals. On Saturdays, indulge in breakfast and brunch, and daily enjoy comfort snacks. Guests can even send postcards through the café’s mailbox.
Café Thijssen
Mon-Thurs: 8 AM – 1 AM | Fri-Sun: 8 AM – 3 AM | Brouwersgracht 107
A favorite among locals, especially on Fridays after work. Café Thijssen offers a lively atmosphere with homemade apple pie and a wide range of fried Dutch snacks. Catch Ajax matches on big screens or join their pub quiz nights. It’s a great place to enjoy local traditions with a fun, vibrant twist.
Café Twee Prinsen
Mon-Wed: 2 PM – 12 AM | Thurs: 3 PM – 1 AM | Fri-Sat: 12 PM – 1 AM | Sun: 2 PM – 12 AM | Prinsenstraat 27
Located by the canals, Café Twee Prinsen combines a trendy interior with a traditional brown café vibe. The contemporary menu features elegant bites that pair beautifully with their selection of organic wines, making it the perfect spot for wine lovers and anyone seeking a relaxed yet refined setting.
De Zingende Zwaan
Tues-Fri: 3:30 PM – 12 AM | Sat-Sun: 1 PM – 12 AM | Eerste Helmerstraat 250
De Zingende Zwaan offers a cozy, welcoming space inspired by London pubs, with French and English culinary influences. Enjoy simple but delicious dishes like classic fish & chips or tender steak with a glass of red wine, all while soaking in the lively cultural atmosphere of this popular Amsterdam spot.
Celebrate Amsterdams Pub Culture
Did you know we even have a national day on October 5 dedicated to celebrating these beloved brown cafés — Dag van de Bruine Kroeg (Day of the Brown Cafe)? A special celebration of Amsterdam’s iconic pub culture!
Looking for the best food spots in the city? We’ve got you covered with our FREE Food Guide, featuring our 95 favorite spots across the city. From breakfast to lunch, dinner, and drinks, we’ve handpicked the best places in every neighborhood. Download it now and explore all the delicious options Amsterdam has to offer!
Even More Insider Tips
As locals, we’re excited to share our best tips with you—after all, who better to ask? You might also enjoy reading:
- Our Top Brunch Spots in the City
- Our Monthly Event Guide full of the best tips
- Newly Opened Restaurants in Amsterdam
- Our Favorite Wine Bars in Amsterdam
- The Ultimate Amsterdam Noord Guide
