Exploring Coffee Shops in Amsterdam: Locally Crafted Mugs and More
If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam or you already live there, you need to explore its coffee shop culture. Amsterdam isn’t just famous for its stunning canals, colorful tulip fields, or impressive museums—it’s also gaining recognition for its unique coffee spots. And lately, there’s a new trend catching people’s attention: coffee served in locally crafted mugs. These mugs are not only beautiful but also tell stories about Amsterdam’s creativity and local craftsmanship.
Drinking coffee is an experience in the Netherlands, not just something you do every morning to wake up. Many people love to sip on freshly brewed coffee while sitting in a cozy corner. Add to this some unique, handmade mugs, and your coffee journey in Amsterdam becomes unforgettable.
Let’s dive into some coffee spots around Amsterdam where you can enjoy lovely drinks and admire locally crafted mugs.
1. Koffiehuis De Hoek
Situated in Jordaan, one of Amsterdam’s prettiest neighborhoods, Koffiehuis De Hoek offers an authentic Dutch vibe. Known for serving freshly brewed coffee using organic beans, the café also uses a selection of handmade ceramic mugs crafted by local artists.
The café’s mugs are like tiny works of art. Some feature hand-painted canal houses or windmills, while others have minimalistic designs that highlight Amsterdam’s peaceful charm. You can even purchase these mugs if you’d like to take a piece of Amsterdam back home with you.
Koffiehuis De Hoek focuses on sustainability too. By showcasing locally made ceramics, they support artists and reduce unnecessary imports. Stop by and enjoy a slice of Dutch apple pie with your coffee—you won’t regret it.
2. Rum Baba Coffee Roasters
If you’re more into specialty coffee, Rum Baba Coffee Roasters is the place to go. Located in the east side of Amsterdam, this café is a favorite among coffee lovers who care about quality. The café takes pride in its locally roasted beans and slow brewing techniques.
What makes Rum Baba unique is their collaboration with local ceramic artists. They serve coffees and lattes in mugs that are playful, colorful, and entirely handcrafted. These mugs come in various shapes, sizes, and patterns, adding a special touch to every sip.
The café also dedicates part of its space to display and sell the pottery. It’s an inspiring spot to explore, especially if you appreciate creative designs. And yes, their warm cinnamon buns pair wonderfully with your coffee.
3. Back to Black
This small coffee shop in Amsterdam is every coffee enthusiast’s dream. Back to Black specializes in using fresh, high-quality beans roasted in-house. Their friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it a welcoming spot for everyone.
What makes Back to Black special are their partnerships with ceramic artists in the city. Drinking from these locally crafted mugs feels like a warm hug—they’re earthy, textured, and sometimes decorated with cute designs like paw prints or nature-inspired themes. This makes sense since Back to Black is dog-friendly!
If you’re curious about how the mugs are made, the artists often participate in special events at the café, showcasing their process. Whether you’re working remotely on your laptop or catching up with friends, Back to Black’s coffee and mugs create the perfect vibe.
4. Sweet Cup Amsterdam
A hidden gem, Sweet Cup Amsterdam is all about creating a personal experience for its customers. This small café takes pride in its artisanal approach to coffee and its commitment to supporting local creators.
Here, mugs are designed exclusively for the café, featuring Amsterdam-themed illustrations or artistic patterns. Each piece is unique, so every visitor may end up sipping from a different mug. It’s like a little surprise every time you visit!
Sweet Cup’s owners say they love working with local artists because it makes their café feel more connected to the city’s creative community. If you’re lucky, you might even meet some artists hosting workshops on-site.
5. The Cheese Factory Coffee Shop
While Amsterdam is famous for its cheese, this coffee shop combines two loves: great coffee and artisan cheese. Located in the heart of the city, The Cheese Factory Coffee Shop ensures every visitor gets a unique pairing experience.
What surprises people, though, is their beautiful collection of locally crafted mugs. Many mugs feature cheese-themed designs or Dutch cultural symbols like bicycles and tulips. They’re fun and make your coffee feel special.
Sit down with a cheese-tasting platter, sip on your cappuccino, and admire the thoughtfulness of your handcrafted cup. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Why Locally Crafted Mugs Matter
The rise of artisan ceramics in Amsterdam’s coffee spots is more than just a design trend. These mugs are part of a growing movement to support local businesses, reduce waste, and celebrate art.
By spending time at a café with locally crafted mugs, you’re getting more than just a cup of coffee—you’re connecting with the heart of Amsterdam. Every mug is made with care, every cup tells a small story, and every sip feels like a celebration of creativity.
So, the next time you visit Amsterdam, skip the big commercial chains and explore these charming coffee shops. You’ll enjoy delicious coffee and, who knows, maybe you’ll find that perfect locally made mug to bring home.
Amsterdam is a city filled with surprises, and its coffee shops are no exception. Whether you’re an everyday coffee drinker or just looking for a quiet spot to relax, these places with their handcrafted mugs offer an experience unlike any other. So come for the coffee, and stay for the art!
