Editorial
Amsterdam is where gin finds its soul. While London may claim gin supremacy, the Dutch capital remains the birthplace of jenever, the precursor to modern gin that shaped centuries of European drinking culture. Today, Amsterdam's gin bars are a fascinating blend of heritage and innovation, from candlelit canal-side venues to contemporary cocktail lounges that honour Dutch distilling traditions while embracing modern gin-and-tonic culture.
The Jordaan neighbourhood and the picturesque Grachtengordel form the heart of Amsterdam's gin scene. Here, historic brown cafes sit alongside sleek modern bars, all united by their respect for quality spirits and craft cocktails. These areas capture the essence of Amsterdam's drinking heritage while remaining firmly rooted in the present.
Moving south into De Pijp and west towards Oud-West, Amsterdam's gin scene becomes more experimental and less tourist-oriented. Here you'll find neighbourhood institutions where locals gather, bartenders are treated as craftspeople, and gin exploration happens without pretension. These areas reflect Amsterdam's progressive spirit while maintaining connection to its drinking heritage.