The Best Coffee Shops in Amsterdam for Hand-Poured Coffee
Amsterdam is a city known for its scenic canals, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. One thing that many people might not immediately think of is its thriving coffee scene. While there are plenty of cozy traditional cafés and trendy coffee bars, some spots go the extra mile with hand-poured coffee, also known as pour-over coffee. This delicate brewing method allows baristas to carefully control every step of the process, resulting in a flavorful and truly unique cup of coffee. In this blog, we’ll talk about some of the best coffee shops in Amsterdam where you can enjoy this artful brewing method.
What is Hand-Poured Coffee?
Before diving into the list, let’s quickly touch on what makes hand-poured coffee special. With hand-pouring, hot water is slowly poured over coffee grounds in a filter. This brewing method emphasizes precision, creating a clean and aromatic coffee that highlights the beans’ natural flavors. Perfecting this method takes time, experience, and attention to detail—which is why finding a great coffee shop is key.
Amsterdam has no shortage of coffee spots, but when it comes to hand-poured coffee, here are some of the best:
1. Scandinavian Embassy
Located in the charming De Pijp area, Scandinavian Embassy is a café that blends Nordic design and passion for quality coffee. The baristas here take coffee brewing very seriously, especially when it comes to hand-poured coffee. The beans are sourced from top-tier Scandinavian roasters, ensuring high-quality flavor profiles. Their meticulous pour-over brewing technique allows you to fully taste every subtle note in the coffee.
The atmosphere is cozy and minimalist, perfect for sipping a cup of coffee while enjoying a pastry or a light Scandinavian-inspired meal. If you’re searching for a place to truly appreciate the art of coffee, Scandinavian Embassy is an excellent choice.
2. Back to Black
Back to Black is a local favorite, tucked away on a quiet street near Leidseplein. Known for its small-batch roasting and warm ambiance, this café puts a special emphasis on crafting top-quality coffee. Their hand-poured offerings are made with beans roasted in-house, guaranteeing freshness and vibrant flavors.
What sets Back to Black apart is its friendly vibe and community feel. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just someone looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup, the staff genuinely love helping customers find a brew that suits their taste. Bonus: They’re dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend along!
3. Bocca Coffee
Bocca Coffee stands out as one of Amsterdam’s premier specialty coffee spots. They’re all about transparency and excellence, as they source, roast, and brew their beans in-house. Located in the center of the city, Bocca Coffee has a sleek and modern space perfect for unwinding or getting some work done.
Their baristas are highly skilled and can guide you through the experience of hand-poured coffee. With their extensive selection of single-origin beans, every cup is fresh and packed with nuanced flavors. If you’re curious about the coffee-making process, Bocca also offers workshops, making it a fantastic spot for learning as well as sipping.
4. Coffee & Cocao
Nestled in Amsterdam’s Jordaan district, Coffee & Cocao is a coffee lover’s treasure. The café specializes in both coffee and chocolate, creating a harmonious environment for indulgence. Their hand-poured coffee is brewed with care, featuring beans selected from among the top suppliers.
Here, you can enjoy a pour-over coffee while pairing it with one of their homemade desserts or cocoa-based treats. The warmth and charm of its interior make Coffee & Cocao the ideal spot for unwinding after exploring the beautiful Jordaan area.
5. Sweet Cup
Sweet Cup is a hidden gem in Amsterdam Oost, and it has gained a dedicated following of coffee lovers. The café is small but full of character, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The hand-poured coffee here is fantastic, made with beans sourced from renowned roasters from around the world.
What makes Sweet Cup even more special is its personal touch. The staff is passionate about sharing their love of coffee, often suggesting beans or brewing methods suited to your preferences. With its laid-back vibe, Sweet Cup is perfect for a relaxing morning or a mid-afternoon coffee break.
6. White Label Coffee
Located in Amsterdam-West, White Label Coffee is well-known for its devotion to quality. They specialize in roasting their own beans and crafting exceptional beverages. Their hand-poured coffee is smooth and refined, with flavors that highlight the distinct characteristics of each roast.
The atmosphere is airy and modern, making it a great spot for lingering over coffee with friends or reading a book. White Label Coffee’s dedication to sustainability and ethical sourcing also adds an extra level of appreciation to each cup.
Final Words
Amsterdam is a paradise for coffee lovers, and the city’s hand-poured coffee culture is growing rapidly. Each of the coffee shops mentioned above offers deliciously brewed drip coffee, made with care and expertise. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys a good cup of joe, exploring these spots will give you a new appreciation for how special hand-poured coffee can be.
So next time you’re in Amsterdam, skip the big chains and treat yourself to a unique coffee experience at one of these incredible cafés. Your taste buds will thank you!
