Amsterdam is home to over 1000 pubs that are called by the locals as brown cafes or kroeg. People who reach here after their work to relax, spend their time by playing cards and sharing their wisdom. There are people who come to debate and gossip. All of them will be having a glass or bottle of beer or other alcohols beside them. The music and operas performed in the background is an added attraction.
Absinthe (Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 171. Ph: 777 48 70): The 19th century bar, which was once banned for the numbing liquor of the same name, offers all types of liquor. Though the jury is yet to produce the quality of its liquor, it is the favorite hangout of the people of the city. It hosts DJs during the weekend to entertain the guests. Opened throughout the night, it is often the center of attraction of the youth. It has a well-disciplined group of staff who are able to take care of their young customers.
Café de Sluyswacht (Jodenbreestraat 1. Ph: 6257611): Located right across Rembrandt Huys, it was built in 1695. The bar has carved a good image in the minds of the people with its friendly atmosphere and service. Its pea soup is really tasty. This good drinking spot that overlooks a canal is considered as a suitable place to drink and rejoice.
Café Dante (Spuistrat 320. Ph: 638-8839): Café Dante functions as a bar, restaurant and gallery. Its walls are decorated with various modern arts that are eye appealing. The bar has a terrace where people can enjoy drinking in the open air. The Italian marble and wood adds attraction to its interior. The large, Art Deco-style bar that serves all types of liquors are filled with people who prefer to booze.
Café De Kroon (Rembrandtplein 17 Ph: 625 20 11): It is an excellent drinking spot on the second floor with a ground floor terrace outside. Its spacious and bright atmosphere attracts locals and tourists to it. Its large glassed-in balcony terrace is always crowded. Well decorated with chandeliers, large mirrors, art and modern colors gives a good experience to the people who reach here to enjoy themselves. Besides drinks like wine, liquor and beer, it also offers sumptuous lunch and dinner.
Café deVergulde Gaper (Prinsenstraat 30. Ph: 624-8975): This brown café is the favorite of the locals who can relax and enjoy the drinks at the outside terrace. Located near the Prinsengracht canal, its gives a spectacular night view of the canal. Its warm and cozy atmosphere is really pleasing. People like to spend some time with their friends here by sipping their favorite brand of liquor.
Hoppe (Spui 18-20, Amsterdam, Netherlands 1012 XA ˇ Ph: 420-4420): This famous drinking spot is always over crowded with people of all ages who arrive here to share their views and opinions. This 17th century café welcomes people with great hospitality. All types of liquor ranging from local beer to traditional Dutch gin are available here. Its romantic and trendy atmosphere and the crispy crunchy snacks served here along with the liquor, makes it a wonderful place to spend the evening.
Proflokaal Wijnand Fockinck (Pijlsteeg 31, Amsterdam, Netherlands 1012 HH ˇ Ph: 639-2695): Familiar to Amsterdam since 1679, this small tasting house has become the landmark of the city. People gather here to taste the fragrant Dutch gin and liquors available here. People who drop in here happen to view the collection of liquor bottles on which the portraits of every mayor of Amsterdam since 1591 has been painted. The bar has a well-maintained courtyard for lunch and snacks. It also has an attached lunchlokaal, which is open for lunch.
