One of the best bets in the touristic Leidseplein area is this authentic brown bar. It used to be the literary center of the Leidseplein, together with the neighbouring cafe Eylders. Elegant, high-ceilinged interior and waiters clad in traditional black-and-white. The glassed-in front opens during the summer to create a sunny outside terrace.

Large bar in the Jordaan, frequented by young locals. Though of more recent date then the neighboring bars, it already has managed to acquire a nice 'brown' patina. The large windows provide a nice view of one of the most beautiful parts of the Jordaan. Gets crowded during evenings.

A famous Amsterdam institution, Hoppe consists of two adjoining properties. The part on the right has been a bar since 1670, the interior reflecting its rich history. There is fresh sand on the floor every day, no music is played and there is standing room only. The left part is bigger and offers seating as well as music. Hoppe is a very popular bar with the crowd spilling out onto the sidewalk on summer days.