7x these are the hidden coffee pearls of Amsterdam

Coffee, preferably as soon as my alarm goes off. Pitch black and super strong OR speckled with a cloud of oat milk. And not just any old brand, no, I prefer Oatly and then the gray packaging specifically for baristas. Not that I compare myself to a barista, mind you, but yes, they had to give the beast a name. Unfortunately, my colleagues at the editorial office have discovered that lately. Because where the infamous gray pack used to last a week, it barely makes it to Wednesday these days. Anyway, back to my coffee tic. On weekends, I like to drink coffee (after I've had my first under the covers) preferably at one of my favorite spots in the city. No Starbucks or Bagels & Beans (which by the way is nothing wrong, they are my biggest friend when I have to take the train south), but in coffee shops where they have coffee that tastes like coffee should. Just like I'm a sucker for caffeine? These are the hidden gems of Amsterdam.

1. Caffènation

This one is definitely number one and I can almost roll there from my bed. Thank God. Bertje, the cuddly Belgian from Amsterdam, serves your best cup of coffee here, whether it's a Haccino (the one from that gray pack, yes) or a slow filter coffee. Good to know: every Sunday, Bert's mother comes all the way from Antwerp with a box of Belgian coffee cakes to Warmondstraat. And then it’s first come, first served. Better be early.

2. Lot Sixty One

For the best coffee (which is roasted in the same space, by the way) and the best guys who make the coffee for you. Did I really say that? You almost bike past it, because it’s not big. The standard roast of Lot Sixty One contains beans from Brazil and El Salvador that together create a dark yet fruity coffee. The deep black flavor is perfect to drink as is, but also the right match with your favorite milk. Speaking of favorite milk: the best soy milk is served here. From my buddies at Bonsoy, an Australian soy brand that is actually only frothed up at our British neighbors and down under. No space at the bar? Then just bike over to the Hoxton. They also serve Lot’s Roast there.

3. Koffie Akademie

Located on the incredibly busy Overtoom, the Koffie Akademie is where many laptops are opened and working almost happens by itself. Besides the best coffees, you can eat the best banana bread here.

4. Berry

In a forgotten corner of Amsterdam-West lies the cozy living room of Berry, where you can easily spend hours. Berry not only serves the best coffee, but the coffee shop is also a brilliant initiative from Strawberry Earth, a sustainable organization. Read a book, meet a friend, or open your laptop here. And don’t forget to conquer a piece of homemade carrot cake or banana.

5. Filter

Well, the name gives it away: at Filter they serve the best coffee, namely from White Label. But not only that, the best pieces of cake, muffins, and brownies are also presented here on a plate. Made from local and organic products, so the perfect combo. You won’t get better than this.

6. Roost

One of the best-kept secrets of Amsterdam-East is the coffee from Roost. Be sure to order a homemade croissant with your flat white in the morning and then close your eyes, because then you’ll feel like you’re in the coolest Le Marais in Paris.

7. ChiqueOLatte

Chic is the coffee here absolutely and I’m not just talking about what’s served in your cup. Here you don’t drink your coffee at a simple table or in a lazy couch, but high up in a cozy corner where you can climb in via a wooden ladder. In the mood for something different? Then order a Turkish coffee or a Qahwa: Arabic coffee with cardamom.