Dec 14 2008
Amsterdam Coffee Shops
Photo: Cathrine Kongslev
Ever since I became aware of Amsterdam on a map, I have heard stories about all the risque things that occur there. I’m sure that you have heard stories about the red light district and being able to smoke on the streets. Well, if you haven’t been to Amsterdam yet, you have probably missed out on much of the red light district appeal since some effort has been made to change the appearance of Amsterdam but you will still have the opportunity to experience the wonderful culture and atmosphere that Amsterdam has to offer.
And one of those places with great atmosphere are the coffee houses. Amsterdam boasts some truly wonderful coffee houses, or brown cafes as they are coined in Amsterdam, and they are full of good coffee and excellent atmosphere that draw regulars and tourists alike. If you are planning to go to Amsterdam, then there are a few coffee houses that you should go see when you get there.
Cafe De Jaren:
The first brown cafe on our list is the refreshingly and lightly architectured coffee house of Cafe De Jaren. Clients of this coffee house can enjoy wonderful coffee, excellent food and an impressive wine list in an atmosphere that is bright and airy. It offers a light atmosphere that relaxes everyone and it has a breathtaking view of the old city from its canal facing terrace.
Cafe Welling:
The second brown cafe that is on our list is Cafe Welling. A very relaxed coffee house that is close to many of the wonderful museums that Amsterdam has to offer. This hip coffee house is a favorite for many hipsters and literary types and can boast a number of famous clientele throughout the years. It is decorated in a very unique manner, something akin to a Dutch living room and it has a small terrace that looks out onto a quiet street.
In ‘t Aepjen:
Another great brown cafe, the In ‘t Aepjen takes you back in town and boasts being set up in one of the oldest wooden houses in Amsterdam. Although some changes have been made in the 19th century, the house dates back to 1509. The brown cafe is filled with toys and old advertisements and the name itself is a reminder of the house’s history as a sailor’s boarding house since it means, “In the monkeys.” Many sailors who couldn’t pay their lodging bill would pay for it with monkeys that they acquired during their travels abroad.
The Amsterdam coffee house scene is very unique in the fact that it combines the atmosphere of a coffee house with great coffee, alcohol, and, depending on the shop, other things as well.
-Sirena Van Schaik