Amsterdam is one of the most liberal metropolitan cities in the world.
The Dutch capital is renowned for its beerhalls, brewpubs and beer cellars - and indeed its coffee houses - but cocktails have now become extremely popular. Cocktails are being mixed from traditional recipes and those created from around the globe. Amazing old buildings have been converted into cocktail bars - offering stunning vistas, delicious cuisine and some of the tastiest & innovative cocktails anywhere in the world.
The BusinessClass.com guide to the best cocktail bars in Amsterdam:
Tales & Spirits
The critically acclaimed Tales & Spirits is situated close to the NH Collection Barbizon Palace, and appears regularly on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Enjoy delicious cocktails in a cosy, relaxed environment with attentive personal service. The presentation of the cocktails is playful and leaves a memory that you can never forget. How about a cocktail presented in an oven-shaped owl or in an antique teapot? Our favourite cocktail is called The Professor. Its ingredients are Vermouth del Professore, Sipsmith gin, Pekoe Supreme Ceylon Tea liquer and Dr. Adam Elmegriab's Orinoco bitters - a lethal but delightful mix.
Address: Lijnbaanssteeg 5-7, 1012 TE
Pulitzer’s Bar
Hotel Pulitzer’s glamorous bar is a must when visiting Amsterdam. This timeless hotel bar seeks to recreate classic drinks with a modern twist in an elegant environment. Order your drink at the golden bar and watch up close as the talented bartender or mixologist - donning a white shirt and bow tie - pours you a classic martini. We adore the Murder on the Orient Express cocktail. Agatha Christie had 12 suspects in the classic murder tale and there are indeed a dozen cocktails on offer - one for each of the main characters. The Nurse, The Salesman ... they all have one ... with ingredients including whisky, gin and rum. Sampling all twelve yourself may not be a great idea ... but with friends, what a delightful way to spend an evening!
Address: 9 The Streets, Keizersgracht 234, 1016 DZ
W Lounge
In addition the central location of the W Amsterdam right next to Dam Square, W Lounge is one of Amsterdam’s most luxurious and trendy rooftop bars. From here, you can drink fantastic cocktails while enjoying the incredible views of Amsterdam. Arrive at sunset and experience the city’s sharp transition from day and night up close. Yes, there is a swimming pool but guests are not encouraged to drink & swim. We recommend the Spice it Up cocktail. It is made up of Bulleit bourbon, ginger syrup and orange, carrot & lemin juice. It has a bit! The service is that of a trendy luxury hotel so do not expect a Cheers vibe. There will be loud, funky music - but definitely worth a visit for the drinks, vistas and the people watching!
Address: Spuistraat 175, 1012 VN
Flying Dutchmen Cocktails
This intimate cocktail bar, situated at the heart of Amsterdam, serves classic drinks created several generations ago in a wonderful environment. The bartenders are as good at sharing stories about your cocktail as they are at shaking it. Over the years, the bar has received multiple international awards and is widely considered one of Amsterdam’s premier cocktail bars. There are over 800 different bottles behind the bar - the best selection in the Netherlands. We adore the hotel-inspired Champagne Pick-Me-Up - which contains Godet No.1 Gentleman cognac, orange juice, pomegranite syrup and Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut Champagne. The bar credits the Ritz Bar Paris for this delightful drink.
Address: Singel 460, 1017 AW
Hiding in Plain Sight
This is the closest you get to a speakeasy in Amsterdam. It is intimate, luscious, and tucked away. As its name suggests, you have to search for this bar – it is definitely off the beaten track. Expect attentive, friendly but unobtrusive service. The cocktail menu changes but the Vieux Carré and the rum-infused Voodoo Child are house favourites. The interior is bedecked with chandeliers and plush, lush fabric sofas and chairs. The drinks are strong so sip slowly but enjoy every drop.
Address: Rapenburg 18, 1011 TX
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