The Netherlands is known for its cosy coffee culture, where you can find a special place on every street corner to enjoy a good cup of coffee. From trendy modern espresso bars in the big cities to hidden gems in picturesque villages: each coffee spot has its own character and unique atmosphere. In this blog, I take you along eight of the nicest coffee spots in the Netherlands. These spots are perfect for a coffee to go, a good workplace or just a relaxing moment. Discover your new favourite coffee spot!
1. Back to Black Coffee - Amsterdam, North-Holland
Back to Black has two of the most atmospheric coffee shops in Amsterdam. Coffee here is prepared with passion and care. The owners, Inge and Noortje, personally choose and select the coffee beans with attention to quality and taste. Find a nice place to sit at one of these nice coffee spots. The branch on Van Hallstraat offers plenty of space and quiet. Perfect for concentrated work. Prefer to be on the go? Then just take your coffee to go.
Transparency and sustainability are at the heart of Back to Black. They aim to give their guests full insight into the journey from bean to cup. This also applies to their homemade cakes, where the ingredients are selected with care. Here you will enjoy apple pie, carrot cake and my favourite: baked cheesecake! The products are organic and locally sourced as much as possible, which not only contributes to great taste, but also to a smaller carbon footprint. In short, these two coffee shops are definitely recommended if you are in Amsterdam.
2. Rocking Chair - Utrecht, Utrecht
Where there used to be an old money bank, there is now one of the best coffee shops in Utrecht: Rocking Chair. Here, the baristas surprise you with beautiful latte art. Whether you choose a filter coffee, a matcha latte or a creamy cappuccino, at Rocking Chair you will always enjoy the best coffee. Get your cup of coffee to go, or stay a little longer and enjoy a full breakfast or lunch.
Rocking Chair is known for their homemade sweets, including vegan cake, carrot cake, banana bread and fresh lemon cake. These sweets will make your coffee moment even more special.
This atmospheric coffee spot is not only perfect for a productive working day, but also ideal for families. The old vault has been converted into a cosy playroom for children. The interior is a charming mix of vintage details, with cupboards full of coffee and tea products to buy. And of course, the iconic rocking chair is the eye-catcher of the café, giving Rocking Chair its unique character. In short, a coffee shop in Utrecht that is not to be missed!
3. Holy Beans - Rotterdam, South-Holland
Heilige Boontjes in Rotterdam is more than just a coffee bar. It is a place where the best coffee is brewed, made from the fairest beans. At Heilige Boontjes, they believe that everyone deserves both a delicious cup of coffee and a fresh start. Young people get the chance to reshape their lives at Heilige Boontjes. Here, they take steps towards a better future.
Founded in 2015 by former cop and educator Marco and reintegration expert Rodney, Heilige Boontjes has already helped more than 200 young people give their lives new meaning. From roasting coffee to serving homemade dishes: everything is done in-house. So you not only enjoy an exceptional cup of coffee here, but also contribute to an initiative that strengthens Rotterdam and its inhabitants.
Sustainability is very important to Heilig Boontjes. They only work with certified products and have partners who adhere to the Global Compact Code. So we can be sure that their coffee is grown in a fair way, with attention to people and nature.
4. Yusu Coffee - Amsterdam, North-Holland
Yusu, founded by Kick and Nicole, has become one of the nicest coffee shops in Amsterdam. This specialty coffee spot is known for its artisan matcha lattes and unique treats. The name Yusu is Surinamese and means 'serious', which fits perfectly with their mission: to serve 'seriously good coffee'. Yusu collaborates with Back to Black, which roasts its coffee in a sustainable manner. As a result, Yusu also contributes to more sustainable choices.
Yusu is more than just a coffee spot; it is a meeting place where everyone is welcome. Kick provides the perfect cappuccinos and delectable matcha lattes, while Nicole throws herself passionately into preparing special treats. At Yusu, no standard pastries like at many other coffee shops in Amsterdam, but an original selection. Think Surinamese pastries and Brazilian cheese balls. In short, one of the coffee shops you definitely do not want to miss when in Amsterdam.
5. La Jeu - Den Bosch, North Brabant
At La Jeu, in the centre of Den Bosch, everything revolves around fair trade Specialty Coffee. That means the coffee is top quality. Here, they roast the beans themselves every week so that you always get fresh coffee. And you can taste that. The vintage elements, sofa and plants create a living room atmosphere.
Owner Larissa Jeunink makes your cup of coffee exactly the way you like it, from latte art to espressos at the bar. You've also come to the right place for a coffee to go and sweet treats. Enjoy a piece of banana bread, a fresh croissant or a typical Brabant sausage roll. Tip from me: definitely try the carrot cake, highly recommended! Everything is homemade, even the chocolates with your coffee are made by La Jeu itself.
6. Gebrand en Bakker - Groningen, Groningen
Owners Suzanne and Hein welcome you to this cosy coffee spot in Groningen. At Gebrand en Bakker, everything revolves around local organic products; sustainability comes first here. This coffee spot is ideal for parents with children. Indeed, there is a play corner where the little ones can have fun, so parents can enjoy their coffee in peace. The blue tiles and green plants combine to create a cosy atmosphere.
Pamper yourself with a creamy yoghurt with homemade organic granola, organic soups or a sandwich with organic cheese and delicious butter. For the sweet tooth, there is plenty of choice. From cinnamon rolls and banana cake to a classic Groninger cake. The baristas are ready to make you the perfect cup of coffee. From latte macchiato to a strong Americano.
7. The Teacher - Middelburg, Zeeland
De Juf in Middelburg offers not only the best coffee and homemade cake, but also a fresh breakfast or a tasty lunch. Start your day with a poached egg, airy French toast or a fresh croissant. De Juf works with pure, seasonal ingredients as much as possible. These come straight from the land, so everything is fresh and full of flavour.
For coffee lovers, De Juf is a little paradise: from a strong espresso macchiato to a creamy flat white. You'll also enjoy iced coffees with a hint of caramel or chai lattes with oat milk here. Originally, De Juf was a shop selling artisan cakes and you can still taste that craftsmanship. From apple crumble and carrot cake to pistachio pie, there is something for everyone. This cosy interior with nostalgic details like school chairs and a vintage calculation rack, gives the shop a warm and unique atmosphere.
8. Jacques Coffee - Utrecht, Utrecht
Jacques Coffee was founded by Jacqueline Schoots. It opened its doors in August 2023. Soon it became one of the most popular coffee shops in Utrecht. This modern coffee bar is a peaceful place. Shades of white and light grey run throughout: from the bar to the floor and walls. Fresh flowers and wooden details create a warm atmosphere.
Jacques Coffee is a real coffee to go spot. Ideal for a quick coffee or high-quality matcha latte. Jacques also offers a selection of delicious sweets to take away. From homemade cinnamon buns to crispy croissants and fresh biscuits. Perfect for when you are on the go and still want to enjoy one of the best coffee shops in Utrecht.
I am very curious which of these coffee shops you will visit during your next trip through the Netherlands. Let me know by tagging @honeyguide.nl/en on Instagram or using #heyhoneyguide so we can follow your coffee route and experiences. I look forward to seeing where you get your next cup of coffee!
Love,
Myrthe