Reviews bars Netherlands

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A Jenever or an Amstel on tap? Or perhaps a Vesper Martini? Whether you are in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or exploring the charming towns throughout the Netherlands, there are plenty of bars and cafes to discover. With the Nova Circle app, finding the perfect bar for a night out is easy. Just download our app to get personalized tips and recommendations from friends and people you trust.

Typical Dutch drinks

When in the Netherlands, why not try some of the local drinks? One of the most iconic traditional drinks is Jenever, a juniper-flavored spirit that is the precursor to gin. Jenever comes in two main varieties: oude (old) and jonge (young), which differ in their production methods and flavor profiles. Oude Jenever tends to be smoother and more aromatic, while jonge Jenever is lighter and crisper. This spirit is often enjoyed neat in a tulip-shaped glass, sipped slowly to savor its complex flavors.

Another beloved Dutch drink is Advocaat, a creamy liqueur made from eggs, sugar, and brandy. With its rich, custard-like texture, Advocaat is traditionally consumed during festive occasions, often served with a dollop of whipped cream or used as a base for cocktails like the classic Snowball.

Dutch cafes and bars often serve an array of herbal liqueurs and bitters, such as Beerenburg, which originated in Friesland. This drink is infused with a mix of herbs and spices, offering a unique and often medicinal flavor profile.

Or try something else completely. Whatever your taste and preferences, you will find the perfect bar for you using the Nova Circle app. Download the app to get trusted reviews from friends and people like you.

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Traditional Dutch beer

Traditional Dutch beer has a rich heritage that dates back centuries. One of the most iconic types of Dutch beer is the Trappist beer, brewed by monks in monasteries like La Trappe in the south of the Netherlands. The beer is renowned for their robust flavors, often featuring complex notes of fruit, spices, and malt.

Another popular variety is the Witbier, or white beer, known for its refreshing, light taste with hints of citrus and coriander, perfect for enjoying during the warmer months.

Dutch breweries also produce a wide range of lagers, with Heineken and Amstel being globally recognized names. Craft beer has seen a resurgence in recent years, with microbreweries across the country experimenting with new styles and ingredients.

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Local wines

The Netherlands also has a tradition of crafting fine wines, particularly in regions like Gelderland and Limburg, where the climate and soil conditions are favorable for viticulture. Dutch wines, though less internationally known, are celebrated for their quality and are often enjoyed locally.

Dutch brown cafes

Dutch brown cafes, named for their dark wood interiors, are a quintessential part of the Netherlands' bar culture. Here you can enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere, with vintage décor, dim lighting, and a patina of age that speaks to their long histories.

The menu in brown cafes typically features local beers, including popular Dutch brews and specialty craft options, as well as traditional snacks like bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), kaasstengels (cheese sticks), and assorted cheeses.

Use the Nova Circle app to find the best brown cafés throughout the Netherlands. With trusted recommendations from friends and likeminded people, you will be guaranteed to find the best spot for you.

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Famous bars

The Netherlands is home to several famous bars that capture the essence of Dutch hospitality and vibrant nightlife. In Amsterdam, the iconic Café Hoppe, established in 1670, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Dutch brown cafes.

Another notable Amsterdam bar is the chic Vesper Bar in the Jordaan district, renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails and stylish interior, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

Moving to Rotterdam, the innovative cocktail bar Dr. Rotterdam offers a unique, science-themed experience with its creative and meticulously crafted drinks.

Utrecht’s Olivier, housed in a former church, combines a stunning architectural setting with an impressive selection of Belgian and Dutch beers.

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Discover the best bars in the Netherlands with the Nova Circle app

The best recommendations seldom come from strangers but from people we know. Nova Circle is your social app for connecting with friends and people from all over the world who share your interests and preferences. Download the Nova Circle app to navigate the vibrant nightlife in the Netherlands, find the best spots, and make the most of your evenings.

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Frequently asked questions – Reviews bars Netherlands

A Vesper Martini is a classic cocktail famously invented by James Bond author Ian Fleming. It first appeared in the novel "Casino Royale" and is known for its unique combination of gin, vodka, and Kina Lillet (or Lillet Blanc, a modern alternative). The traditional recipe calls for three measures of gin, one measure of vodka, and half a measure of Kina Lillet, shaken with ice and garnished with a thin slice of lemon peel. The Vesper Martini is celebrated for its strong, smooth flavor and sophisticated allure.

Determining the best bar in Amsterdam can be subjective and depends on your individual preferences. However, one highly acclaimed spot is Café Hoppe, a historic brown cafe that has been serving patrons since 1670. The bar is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, rich history, and an extensive selection of local beers and traditional Dutch drinks like Jenever.

Try local drinks: Do not miss out on trying traditional Dutch drinks like Jenever or a Vesper Martini, a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

Ask the bartender: The bartenders in the Netherlands are knowledgeable and can recommend delicious drinks tailored to your taste. Do not hesitate to ask for their suggestions.

Explore different areas: Bars in areas like the Jordaan district in Amsterdam or the Witte de Withstraat in Rotterdam each have their unique charm and offerings.