Best Coffee Shops in Amsterdam for Coffee and Gourmet Pairings
Amsterdam is known for its stunning canals, rich history, and vibrant cycling culture. It’s also home to a thriving coffee scene that caters to locals and tourists alike. Beyond the usual coffee experience, some of Amsterdam’s coffee shops are elevating your cup of joe by pairing it with gourmet delights. Here’s a list of the best coffee shops in Amsterdam for coffee and gourmet pairings. These spots aren’t just about great coffee—they’re about marrying flavors and creating memorable experiences.
1. Coffee & Coconuts
Located in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, Coffee & Coconuts is a local favorite. Housed in a former theater, its spacious and light-filled interior is the perfect setting for enjoying delicious coffee paired with gourmet pastries and snacks.
Here, the coffee is smooth and crafted to perfection, but the real star is their fresh coconut cake, which pairs wonderfully with a creamy flat white or cappuccino. They also offer vegan treats and savory items like avocado toast if you’re craving something non-sweet.
Pro Tip: Try their cold brew coffee with their homemade granola bowl—it’s a refreshing and wholesome pairing!
2. Lot Sixty One Coffee Roasters
For those who love strong coffee and bold flavors, Lot Sixty One Coffee Roasters is a must-visit. This coffee shop is known for its expertly roasted beans, which offer a rich taste in every sip.
Lot Sixty One keeps things simple with gourmet pairings that highlight quality. Their dense, buttery chocolate brownies perfectly complement their robust espressos or flat whites. If you’re not into chocolate, their almond croissants are another top choice—they pair beautifully with filter coffee.
Fun Fact: They roast their beans in-house, so you can smell the coffee roasting process while you sip your brew.
3. Back to Black
Back to Black is a cozy coffee shop where everything feels personal. From the knowledgeable baristas to the homemade cakes, this spot makes you feel right at home.
Their coffee drinks shine on their own, but the gourmet pairings help take your experience to another level. Try their tangy lemon tart with a perfectly balanced Americano for a mix of citrusy and nutty flavors. If chocolate is your go-to choice, their rich chocolate cake goes well with a creamy mocha or latte.
Back to Black focuses on sustainability, so it’s a great place to support ethical practices while indulging in delicious flavors.
4. Rum Baba
If you love coffee and baked goods, Rum Baba is the place to be. This micro-roastery and bakery in the trendy Oost neighborhood feels like a hidden gem.
Rum Baba offers a small but expertly curated menu of coffee options alongside their freshly baked treats. Their cinnamon buns, flaky and sugary, are a standout dish. Pair one with a spiced chai latte or smooth cappuccino for a delightful experience.
Don’t miss their signature rum-soaked baba cake, which pairs beautifully with their rich espresso. The mix of boozy and bold coffee flavors is an absolute treat.
5. Screaming Beans
For a more elevated coffee experience, head to Screaming Beans. With a focus on high-quality coffee craftsmanship, this café is a haven for serious coffee lovers.
Their menu includes fine espresso drinks that are best paired with their selection of small gourmet pastries. Their apricot tart is a standout, marrying the sweetness of fruit with buttery pastry—a perfect match for their clean and fruity pour-over coffee.
They also offer coffee tasting experiences if you want to dive deeper into how different flavors pair with gourmet food.
6. Sweet Cup
Sweet Cup focuses on specialty coffee and has mastered the art of pairing it with unconventional gourmet creations. Their menu is filled with surprises, like sweet and savory pastries and unique cakes.
Their fluffy Japanese-style pancakes are a fan favorite. Pair them with a velvety latte for a soft and indulgent combo. For those who love bold flavors, their spicy ginger cookies pair surprisingly well with the earthy tones of their filter coffees.
Sweet Cup is a small and quiet coffee shop, perfect for unwinding and enjoying a creative pairing experience.
7. Koffie Academy
Koffie Academy is where coffee lovers go to learn, taste, and enjoy all things coffee. This café combines a laid-back vibe with high-quality coffee and gourmet pairings.
Try their hazelnut cake with a rich flat white, or pair a classic butter croissant with a bold espresso shot. Both options will leave you wanting more.
They occasionally hold workshops about coffee brewing and tasting, so you can expand your coffee knowledge while savoring delicious pairings.
Conclusion
Amsterdam’s coffee shops offer more than just your average cup of coffee—they provide creative gourmet pairings that amplify the flavors and create a truly satisfying experience. Whether you prefer rich espressos with chocolate delights or fruity pour-overs with tangy pastries, there’s a coffee shop in Amsterdam that caters to your cravings.
Next time you visit the city, be sure to explore these top coffee shops and discover how a good cup of coffee can turn into a remarkable gourmet journey. Sit back, relax, and pair away!
