Famous Local Drinks in Amsterdam: A Guide to Authentic Dutch Beverages

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is not only famous for its picturesque canals, rich history, and artistic heritage but also for its unique and flavorful local drinks. Whether you’re a fan of beer, spirits, or traditional non-alcoholic beverages, Amsterdam offers an impressive variety that reflects the city’s culture and Dutch traditions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the famous local drinks of Amsterdam that every traveler and local enthusiast should try. 🍻🍸

1. Dutch Beer – The Heart of Amsterdam’s Drinking Culture

Amsterdam boasts some of the world’s most renowned beer brands and craft breweries. Beer is deeply embedded in the Dutch lifestyle, and the city is dotted with cozy pubs and breweries offering a wide selection of beer styles.

Heineken – Amsterdam’s Iconic Export

The name Heineken is synonymous with Dutch beer globally. Founded in Amsterdam in 1864, this pale lager is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. The Heineken Experience on the city’s famous Stadhouderskade street offers an interactive tour through the brewery’s history and brewing process, culminating with a fresh pint of this iconic beer.

Craft Beer Scene in Amsterdam

Beyond Heineken, Amsterdam has a thriving craft beer scene. Breweries like Oedipus Brewing, De Prael, and Brouwerij ‘t IJ serve unique brews with experimental flavors. These beers often feature local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques, making Amsterdam a hotspot for craft beer lovers.

2. Jenever – The Traditional Dutch Gin

Jenever, often referred to as Dutch gin, is a traditional juniper-flavored spirit that dates back to the 16th century. It is considered the national spirit of the Netherlands and is a must-try when in Amsterdam.

What Makes Jenever Special?

Unlike London dry gin, Jenever is maltier and smoother because it is distilled from malt wine. It comes in two main varieties: oude (old) and jonge (young), which differ in distillation methods and taste. Oude jenever has a richer, more robust flavor, while jonge jenever is lighter and crisper.

Where to Experience Jenever in Amsterdam

Visit traditional jenever bars like De Ooievaar or In de Wildeman to sample this historic spirit. Many bars also offer jenever tasting flights, allowing you to explore different ages and flavors.

3. Dutch Coffee Culture – More Than Just a Drink

Coffee culture in Amsterdam is vibrant and diverse. The city is home to numerous cozy cafés and specialty coffee shops where locals and tourists alike enjoy expertly brewed espresso, cappuccino, and other coffee drinks.

Traditional Dutch Coffee

In Amsterdam, it’s common to enjoy a strong black coffee accompanied by a stroopwafel, a sweet Dutch caramel waffle cookie. This pairing is a beloved local tradition, perfect for a mid-afternoon break.

Specialty Coffee Shops

Amsterdam’s specialty coffee scene is growing rapidly. Places like Lot Sixty One, Back to Black, and Scandinavian Embassy serve ethically sourced beans roasted to perfection, offering an elevated coffee experience for aficionados.

4. Advocaat – A Creamy Dutch Delight

Advocaat is a rich, creamy Dutch liqueur made from eggs, sugar, and brandy or gin. It has a custard-like consistency and is typically served in a small glass with a spoon. This sweet and velvety drink is often enjoyed as a dessert accompaniment or in cocktails.

How to Enjoy Advocaat

One popular way to enjoy Advocaat is the Snowball cocktail, which combines Advocaat with lemonade and a squeeze of lime to create a refreshing yet indulgent drink. Advocaat is also delicious served over ice cream or with whipped cream.

5. Dutch Apple Jenever – A Fruity Twist

For those who enjoy flavored spirits, Dutch Apple Jenever offers a delightful fruity alternative. This liqueur combines traditional jenever with fresh apple flavors, creating a sweet, aromatic drink that is perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails.

Popular Serving Suggestions

Try Dutch Apple Jenever chilled or over ice. It also pairs beautifully with ginger beer or tonic water, making a refreshing long drink perfect for Amsterdam’s lively evenings.

6. Hot Chocolate – A Cozy Amsterdam Staple

During Amsterdam’s chilly months, a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate is the ultimate comfort drink. Dutch hot chocolate is known for its thickness and intense chocolate flavor, often made with real melted chocolate rather than powder.

Where to Find the Best Hot Chocolate

Some of the best hot chocolate spots include Papeneiland, a historic Dutch café, and Omelegg, known for crafting decadent chocolate drinks. Pair your hot chocolate with traditional Dutch pastries for an authentic experience.

7. Bitterballen and Local Drinks: The Perfect Pairing

No discussion of Amsterdam’s local drinks is complete without mentioning its famous Dutch snacks. Bitterballen, deep-fried meatballs served with mustard, are a popular bar snack that pairs perfectly with many Amsterdam drinks, especially beer and jenever.

Enjoying these traditional snacks alongside your drink enhances the authentic Dutch experience and offers a taste of local hospitality.

Conclusion

Amsterdam’s famous local drinks are a reflection of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From the world-famous Heineken beer and traditional jenever to creamy Advocaat and robust Dutch coffee, the city offers an exciting beverage journey for every palate. Whether you’re exploring lively pubs, cozy cafés, or historic bars, sampling these authentic drinks will enrich your Amsterdam experience and leave you with unforgettable memories. Cheers to discovering Amsterdam’s liquid treasures! 🍹🍺