Where to Get Great Coffee in Amsterdam (16 Local Picks 2026)

A note on terminology: in Amsterdam, a "coffee shop" refers to establishments licensed to sell cannabis. A cafe is where you go for coffee. Amsterdam's specialty coffee scene is small relative to London or Berlin but exceptionally concentrated. The city's compact geography means you can visit five excellent shops in a single afternoon walk along the canals.

Where to Go

Friedhats. Arguably the best roaster in the Netherlands. Predominantly light roast, sourced impeccably. The filter program is the draw. If you drink one cup of coffee in Amsterdam, drink it here. Lot Sixty One. Kinkerstraat. One of the city's original specialty shops. Strong espresso and milk drinks. Scandinavian Embassy. Nordic-influenced, light roasts, clean cups. Rotating guest roasters. Back to Black. Multiple locations. Consistent quality and the relaxed atmosphere that makes you stay longer than planned. White Label Coffee. In the Jordaan. Strong pour over program.

What to Know

"Koffie verkeerd" is the traditional Dutch order: coffee with a lot of hot milk, similar to a caffè latte. It translates as "wrong coffee" because it inverts the ratio of coffee to milk. Cycling is faster than walking for cafe-hopping. Rent a bike. Five shops in one afternoon is entirely achievable on two wheels. Explore all coffee shops in Amsterdam.

Keep reading: Best Coffee Shops in Berlin, Best Coffee Shops in Paris, How the World Drinks Coffee.