Hidden Coffee Shop Gems in Amsterdam: A Must-Visit Guide
Amsterdam is famous for its canals, bicycles, and art museums, but it also has a strong coffee culture. While tourists often head to well-known spots like Starbucks or big chains, the city hides several unique and cozy coffee shops that locals love. These hidden gems offer great coffee, delicious snacks, and an intimate atmosphere that will make your coffee break extra special. Let’s explore some of Amsterdam’s hidden coffee shop treasures!
1. De Koffieschenkerij
Hidden in the heart of Amsterdam, De Koffieschenkerij feels like stepping back in time. This charming coffee shop is located in one of the oldest parts of the city, right next to the Oude Kerk (Old Church). Despite being super close to busy tourist areas, it’s incredibly peaceful.
What makes De Koffieschenkerij unique is its small garden surrounded by old walls. On sunny days, you can sit outside and enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam while sipping your coffee. They serve excellent espresso, cappuccino, and homemade cakes. Try their apple pie—it’s a local favorite!
2. Sweet Cup
Sweet Cup is a tiny coffee shop tucked away down a quiet lane near Amsterdam’s famous canal district. It’s easy to miss, but once you find it, you’ll discover some of the best specialty coffee in town. The owners are passionate coffee lovers and know how to brew a perfect cup.
They use beans from small farms around the world and prepare each coffee with great care. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, try their pour-over or Aeropress options for a truly special experience. The intimate space and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for a relaxing coffee break.
3. Back to Black
Back to Black is not exactly hidden, but it feels like a secret escape. There are two locations in Amsterdam, and both offer a cozy, homey atmosphere that makes you want to linger for hours. It feels like hanging out in a friend’s living room.
The coffee here is roasted in-house, ensuring bold and fresh flavors. If you’re a fan of lattes, try their oat milk latte—it’s creamy and delicious! Besides coffee, Back to Black serves tasty cakes and cookies, all baked fresh daily. The locations also allow dogs, so you might even meet some furry friends while you’re sipping your favorite drink.
4. Het Nieuwsblad
Het Nieuwsblad is perfect for those who love coffee and a great story. Hidden in Amsterdam’s Jordaan neighborhood, this old-school coffee shop has a charming, vintage vibe. The walls are decorated with newspaper clippings, giving the shop its name, which means “The Newspaper.”
The coffee is affordable and tasty, and they also serve sandwiches and light meals. It’s ideal for a quiet afternoon getaway or a cozy breakfast. Het Nieuwsblad is loved by locals for its unpretentious atmosphere, and it’s a great place to feel like you’re part of the Amsterdam community.
5. Rum Baba Coffee Roastery
A little further away from the central buzz, Rum Baba Coffee Roastery is worth the trip. Found in the east of Amsterdam, this coffee shop roasts its own beans and offers a warm, inviting space to enjoy your coffee.
The interior is quirky and colorful, creating a fun yet relaxing vibe. Their coffee menu includes classics like espresso and cappuccino, but they also offer creative options like cardamom-spiced lattes. Don’t leave without trying one of their delicious baked goods—Rum Baba’s cookies and cakes are unforgettable!
6. Espressofabriek
If you’re exploring the Westerpark area, Espressofabriek is the perfect stop for coffee. Housed in a former industrial building, this coffee shop has a simple and modern design, but the coffee is anything but basic. Their baristas are highly skilled and serve rich, flavorful drinks that highlight the quality of the coffee beans.
Espressofabriek gets bonus points for being surrounded by green spaces. Grab a cup to go and take a stroll through the park, or sit outside and enjoy a quiet moment away from the city’s hustle.
7. Toki
Toki is a cozy coffee shop with a laid-back vibe, located in the Haarlemmerbuurt neighborhood. It’s a favorite spot for young creatives, freelancers, and anyone looking for a calm space to sip coffee or work.
The coffee is excellent, and they also serve a variety of teas and light snacks. Toki’s design is modern yet welcoming, with big windows that let in plenty of light. It’s a fantastic spot to relax, chat with friends, or even catch up on emails while you enjoy a great drink.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam is home to countless coffee shops, but the hidden gems are what make the city truly special. Whether you’re a coffee expert or just someone who enjoys a good cup, these less crowded spots offer delicious drinks, unique atmospheres, and a taste of local life.
When visiting Amsterdam, take a break from the tourist-packed areas and explore these hidden treasures. You might find yourself sipping coffee in a secret garden, roasting beans in an industrial space, or meeting friendly locals in a vintage café. Each coffee shop has a story to tell, and Amsterdam’s charm is best discovered through its quiet, unexpected corners.
Happy coffee hunting! ☕
