Rainy-day terraces
We can't always rely on the Dutch weather but we can rely on the terrace culture. Sit outside without getting soaked with this weather-proof roundup of covered bars, cafes and restaurants in Amsterdam.
Café Fonteyn
There’s a cluster of delightful cafés in Nieuwmarkt square that all have enough coverage to get you through a classic Amsterdam cloudburst, relatively drip-free. Café Fonteyn is a local favourite, known for its warm atmosphere, heated terrace and simple brown-bar menu focussing on beers and bites. Order a IJwit van Brouwerij ’t IJ and a plate of bitterballen to soak up the Dutch vibes.
Café Fonteyn | Nieuwmarkt 13-15, Nieuwmarkt
WestergasTerras
A long awning shelters a big chunk of the giant terrace at WestergasTerras. On drizzly days, head here to listen to the rain splash into the water outfront as you take in the view of the former gasworks. Filling fare including pancakes, burgers and sandwiches, will provide plenty of fuel to charge up your exploration of Westergas and the surrounding Westerpark.
WestergasTerras | Klonneplein 4-6, Westerpark
IJver
Situated at the buzzy NDSM Wharf, this industrial-chic restaurant has two terraces: a hybrid 100m2 indoor/outdoor warehouse terrace with towering 20-metre high ceilings and a partially covered outdoor space, making it a truly weather-proof option for an al fresco tipple. There are 18 beers on tap and their robust ale offering even makes its way into the food menu — try the poussin stewed in Weizenbeer.
IJver | Scheepsbouwkade 72, NDSM Wharf
Cafe 't Paardje
’t Paardje's large bustling terrace in the centre of De Pijp boasts some great covered outdoor space that will shield you from the elements, beer in hand. This modern bruin cafe is a favoured haunt for locals, serving up a great selection of bistro dishes, hot snacks and warming drinks.
't Paardje | Gerard Douplein 1, De Pijp
De Biertuin
The clue is in the name at De Biertuin (the beer garden) where the enclosed roadside terrace has tables outside all year round. It’s a top spot for friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, pub-style food and of course a large selection of great beers - whatever the weather!
Biertuin | Linnaeusstraat 29, Oost
TonTon Club West
American and Japanese cultures collide into a neon paradise at TonTon Club West. This exciting paradise of retro arcade games is spread across indoor and outdoor areas, making for a suitably competitive first date location in all seasons.
TonTon Club West | Polonceau-kade 27, Westerpark
Brouwerij ‘t IJ
Beer-lovers at brewery-bar Brouwerij ‘t IJ have the option to cosy up under a proper Dutch windmill and some sturdy umbrellas which shelter the sprawling terrace. On tap, enjoy an impressive selection of home brewed, organic beers to warm you up on those wet days.
Brouwerij ’t IJ | Funenkade 7, Oost
Louie Louie
Oversized square umbrellas provide protection from the elements at this atmospheric all-day cafe in Amsterdam Oost. The terrace is right across from the Tropenmuseum and a great spot to snag a picnic table, kick back and sip a Dutch & Stormy (Union Spice & Sea Salt rum, ginger beer, lime, Angostura bitters) while you stay dry and toasty.
Louie Louie | Linnaeusstraat 11, Amsterdam Oost
Waterkant
A Surinamese bar set on the Singelgracht, Waterkant is a summertime favourite that’s just as delightful in the cooler months. It boasts a dangerous drinks menu that includes beer and cocktails by the pitcher. Luckily, the hearty food will fortify you, with stick-to-your-bones dishes like banana deep fried in parbo beer batter and served with peanut sauce.
Waterkant | Marnixstraat 246, Centrum
Jonge Dikkert
Nestled under a Dutch sawmill that was built in 1672, Jonge Dikkert is an Amstelveen all-star. They have a spacious outdoor dining area under a covered gazebo, so you won’t get drenched if it starts to pour. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients in global cuisine. Get started with the Greveling oysters, plucked right from Lake Grevelingen and served with white asparagus, white grape, fermented garlic and hazelnut.
Jonge Dikkert | Amsterdamseweg 104a, Amstelveen
't Blauwe Theehuis
Parked in the very centre of Vondelpark, Het Blauwe Theehuis is a striking modernist pavilion that resembles something like a giant teacup crossed with a spaceship. The large terrace boasts some covetable covered seats with outdoor heaters making it the perfect spot for a warming coffee or some freshly-poured beers for anyone caught in the park during a downpour.
’t Blauwe Theehuis | Vondelpark 5, Oud-Zuid
