Some bars you find on Google. Some you stumble into. And some, like Café De Knoop, appear on your radar via word of mouth by a friend of a friend, until suddenly you’re three spritzers deep, swaying to a one-man band singing about boats. (Or love. Or fish? Honestly, unclear. But vibes were immaculate.)
Nestled on Prinsenstraat – an already delightful little strip of brown cafés, indie shops, and eat-your-heart-out eateries – De Knoop is the newest addition to the gang, and it’s already earned a permanent place in my hangout rotation.
And not just because I happened to know someone behind the bar (though let’s be real, that helped). It’s got that magic combo of welcoming atmosphere, good drinks, and people-watching gold.
Front row seats or fireplace nooks?
The space itself is a delightful identity crisis in the best way. Up front, it’s light, modern, and has that breezy sea-faring vibe—think wooden accents, navy hues, and the subtle feeling that someone might yell “Ahoy!” at any moment. Head to the back and you’ll find deep red walls, a crackling fireplace, and cosy corners that feel like your grandma’s living room… if your grandma was a very chill pirate.
Above the couch in the back hangs a gallery wall of almost-names: “The Bearded Mermaid,” “That Dam Bar,” “Hazy Helmsman,” and more. All rejected names from when the five(!) owners were naming the place. The winning name? De Knoop—a nautical pun and a solid response to “Where are you?” (“In De Knoop,” obviously).
Spritzers that slap, beers that surprise
Drink-wise, you’re spoiled. They’ve got a rotating list of local brews, interesting Belgian picks, and a whole spritz section. Yes, a section. Campari, Limoncello, classics, twists—you name it. And considering the location (hello, centre of Amsterdam), the prices are more-than-fair. Dangerously fair, even. Let’s just say my Sunday “quick drink” turned into a three-spritzer sit-down with boat ballads in the background.
A toilet tale (because someone had to say it)
Let’s talk logistics. Specifically: the toilet. No shade, it’s perfectly fine – but getting to it is a mini adventure. You’ll find yourself facing a classic Amsterdam staircase, the kind that makes you question your choices after two spritzers. It’s steep, it’s narrow, and it’s mildly heroic. Take your time, grab the railing, and try not to be the reason everyone downstairs suddenly bursts into applause. You’ve got this.
For locals, not just floaters
Though founded by the folks behind Those Dam Boat Guys, De Knoop is way more than a tourist pit stop. Sure, you’ll see the occasional pre- or post-cruise crowd float through, but the vibe is deeply local. People pop in for a pint after work, sink into the couch for an afternoon coffee, or stick around for live music or comedy nights. It’s got that come-as-you-are, stay-as-long-as-you-want energy that’s rare in this part of town.
The staff? Top-notch. And I’m not just saying that because I know one of them. (Okay, I am a little. But the rest are just as lovely.)
What’s the verdict?
Café De Knoop is one of those places that feels like it’s always been there, even though it’s new. I haven’t tried the food yet, which honestly just gives me a reason to go back. And if you need an excuse too? Let me offer you this: spritzers, sea shanties, a slightly absurd gallery wall – and a bathroom climb that will make you feel like you earned that next round.
You can visit Café De Knoop at Prinsenstraat 5
Find Cafe De Knoop online:
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