Koffie is mandatory in Amsterdam. Dutch people drink more coffee than any other nation in the world. That says a lot about a nation of only 17,000,000 people. Dutchies are hardcore about their coffee, every morning people stop for a half hour usually between 10 and 12 for Koffie tijd. Its like a siesta but you're awake. And there's cookies.
Now pay attention here, this is crucial. Coffeeshops do NOT sell coffee. Ok, they do but its only a side dish for the weed. Yes, its "legal" to smoke the jane in Amsterdam but only in a coffeeshop. Cafes sell coffee without the weed. They are way less stinky and annoying. One of my favorite things to do in the dam is bike to one of my favorite cafes, sit, study, work or just be. It would be nicer if they were open later, most close at 5 or 6pm. But I love them because they're not loud and crammed with people, everyone's chill and friendly and the atmosphere is gezellig, cozy and homey. And dutchies just make freaking good coffee. You'll see. Just stay away from the Coffee Company. The service is poor and the coffee is not that good. Here are some of my favorites...
Espressofabriek
Awesome lattes (its my favorite coffee drink if you haven't noticed) but they also have the best muffins in the city, moist and lovely. It's in a pretty cool, area of Westerpark with a few other cafes, restaurants and even a market in the summer. After Two For Joy closed (still not over this) it might be my favorite coffee in Amsterdam.
Back to Black : more info coming!
Screaming Beans
The last time I was in Amsterdam, some friends took me here for an afternoon birthday treat. Their coffee was fantastic. Their deserts were equally satisfying, if not more. I had lemon cheesecake and an iced latte. The cheesecake was one of the best I've had in Amsterdam. Its strange that the land of cheese doesn't have a strong cheesecake game. The staff was exceptionally friendly and went out of their way to make sure I had a nice birthday.
dwaze zaken
Known as the art cafe to many locals, dwaze zaken is a great place for delicious, organic food and deserts. The location couldn't be any easier too, right across the street from Centraal Station. Many times I've met friends there, coming from other parts of the country to visit or about to leave for home or a longer journey.
Coming soon! Reviews on Scandanavian Embassy, Monks Roasters, Broers Coffee, Coffee and Coconuts, and more!