The Dutch capital is full of charming bars with dark wood interiors, known as brown bars. Café de Pels is a brown bar, too, but with a difference. It is known as a creative hub, with writers often found scribbling at its tables. The walls hang with art, and there is a buzz around the place you won’t find elsewhere.
There is nothing to shout about in terms of drinks, just a fairly standard array of beer, wine and spirits. There is, however, a longer food menu than in many other Amsterdam bars. The bitterballen — veal croquettes ubiquitous in the Netherlands — are particularly good here, and there are sharing platters for if you get hungrier than that.
Grab one of the few outside tables on a warm day and you will be able to watch the world go by, or shelter inside when the rain comes down. Wherever you sit the attentive staff will make sure your glass is always full, and at bargain prices there is no need to worry about having a few.
This place is highly recommended and makes for a convenient stop off as you walk between tourist sites in west Amsterdam.
Beers $3; six bitterballen for $6.
Café de Pels
Huidenstraat 25
1016 ER Amsterdam, Netherlands
tel. 31 20 622 9037
Read This Next
“Live Like a Local” Experiences
Top Trends
Dec 11, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 11, 2025UNwineD Presented by Publix Returns to Panama City Beach This Month
Visit Panama City Beach announced the return of its signature spring culinary festival, UNwineD presented by Publix. Back for its ninth year, UNwineD takes place March 27–29 at Aaron Bessant Park, showcasing a lineup of craft beer, wine and spirits, along with outstanding cuisine from the South’s top chefs. This year’s special guests include James Beard semifinalist and Top Chef season 16 winner Kelsey Barnard Clark, as well as acclaimed food and wine expert Michael Green.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Slideshow
Mar 11, 20258 Must-See Sites in Berlin, Germany
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are eight must-see sites in Berlin, Germany.
Destinations / North America
Mar 11, 2025Take a Spring Break Trip to Cobb County, Georgia
Looking for a great spring break destination that won’t be overly crowded? Consider heading to Cobb County, Georgia. It’s close enough to Atlanta that you can easily fly in, but far enough from the hustle and bustle that you’ll truly feel as if you got a break.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Destinations / North America
Mar 10, 2025Sleep in a Bourbon Barrel in Kentucky
Travelers have long flocked to Kentucky for the state’s Bourbon Trail, but why not take your exploration of the state’s spirited side a step further by actually staying inside of a bourbon barrel?
ShareThis