Editorial

The 10 Best Hidden Gem Bars in Amsterdam 2026

Amsterdam's hidden bars include both modern speakeasies (Door 74) and centuries-old brown cafés (In't Aepjen, opened in 1475). The 10 below show both eras.

The 10 best hidden gem bars in Amsterdam

  1. 01

    Door 74

  2. 02

    Flying Dutchmen

  3. 03

    Hiding in Plain Sight

  4. 04

    The Butcher Social Club

  5. 05

    In 't Aepjen

  6. 06

    Café de Dokter

  7. 07

    Café Brecht

  8. 08

    Tales of Tonic

  9. 09

    Bar Oldenhof

  10. 10

    Café 't Smalle

How Amsterdam hides its best

Door 74 is the modern reference. In't Aepjen is the historic pilgrimage. Most peak between 9 and 11 PM.

European Editor — based in London. Twelve years across Soho, Marais and Mitte. Strong opinions about ice.

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