If you’ve ever wandered through Amsterdam’s Jordaan, you’ve probably come across Café t’Papeneiland, a cozy little spot that’s known for two things: its world-famous apple pie and its spot on the corner of two stunning canals. This place is a local institution, and after hearing about it for ages, I finally made the pilgrimage to see what all the fuss was about.
What I knew about Café t’Papeneiland before I went
Before I showed up, I already knew about the pie – that much was obvious. It’s practically legendary. I also knew it had some serious history behind it, like the fact that there’s a hidden tunnel beneath the café that supposedly connects it to a secret Catholic church from the Reformation days. Intriguing, right? But the real question was: could it live up to the hype?
The vibe: Cozy, cozy, cozy
I walked in just 10 minutes after opening, and you could already tell this place was the heart of the neighborhood. The outdoor seating was full (no surprise there, it’s a suntrap in the summer), but stepping inside was like walking into a warm hug. The café is packed with comfy corners, old wood, Delft tiles, and the kind of charm that makes you want to sit back and settle in for the long haul. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, a slice of pie, and get cozy.
The vibe here is pure gezelligheid – that untranslatable Dutch concept of cozy comfort. It feels like you’re in someone’s living room, and you just happen to have a front-row seat to one of the most gorgeous spots in Amsterdam. I could’ve easily stayed there all day, nursing an ice cold beer and people-watching through the windows.
The Apple Pie: So good, it’s basically a national treasure
Now, let’s talk about the pie. The crust is perfectly flaky, the apples are just the right balance of sweet and tart, and that dollop of whipped cream on the side? Don’t even think about skipping it. I could’ve easily eaten two slices (and trust me, I was tempted).
It’s the kind of pie that makes you want to slow down and enjoy every bite, because you know it’s not just any pie – it’s the pie. It’s no wonder it’s a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
What’s the verdict?
Café t’Papeneiland has it all: a cozy atmosphere, a bit of history, and pie that’s absolutely worth the hype. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon, enjoy a drink, and eat the kind of pie that’ll make you forget about any other dessert on the menu. The added bonus? The friendly vibe that makes you feel like part of the neighborhood, even if you’re just passing through.
You can visit Café t’Papeneiland at Prinsengracht 2.
Find Café t’Papeneiland online:
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