The best Amsterdam bars and cafés

Avocado is the key to a killer brunch spread, right? So, while we were noncommittal on crowning Amsterdam’s best coffee, you won’t find such hesitation here. If you’re looking for the best brunch in Amsterdam, you’d do well to consider The Avocado Show. This exceptionally Instagrammable restaurant specialises in creative, visually stunning, avocado-centric dishes and – as its website reassuringly states – is a “magical place full of good avocado vibes”. We agree.

Helping us segue effortlessly (ish) from cafés to bars is Canvas. Open throughout the day for breakfast and brunch, but especially great of an evening, Canvas is one of Amsterdam’s most must-see bars. From its spot on the seventh floor of the Volkshotel, this rooftop offers cracking views of the city centre and the River Amstel, and there are few spots better for pairing a panorama with a drink than this. ‘Club Canvas’ is open on Fridays and Saturdays until 4am.

If rooftops aren’t your thing, then head to Amsterdam’s Noord district for a boaty bohemian bar unlike any you’ve seen before. Café De Ceuvel is a (very) quirky establishment located in a former shipyard and made up entirely of old houseboats. Sustainability is the name of the game here, which explains why everything is built out of recycled material and the kitchen serves up a menu filled with organic, locally produced food. While that might make it a good place for a spot of brunch or breakfast in Amsterdam, this riverside hotspot really comes to life as the sun goes down – Café De Cuevel hosts everything from concerts to film screenings and parties.