Back to Black is the kind of Amsterdam coffee bar locals use—small, warm, and very serious about the beans. They roast their coffee in the city, run two cafés, and bake the cakes themselves. Expect a low-key vibe, meticulous brews, and staff who actually enjoy talking coffee.
The vibe
Think Dutch gezelligheid: compact rooms, wood and brick, the steady murmur of grinders, and a mix of laptop people and neighbors grabbing a flat white. The coffee is roasted by Back to Black themselves, and the cakes come from their bakery—so yes, the apple pie and brownies are exactly as dangerous as they look.
Key features
- In-house roasting
Back to Black has roasted its coffee since 2015 and continues to source expressive single origins. You can drink it in the cafés or order beans online. - Two central locations (same daily hours)
- Weteringstraat (Center) – Weteringstraat 48, 1017 SP
- Van Hallstraat (West) – Van Hallstraat 268, 1051 HM
Hours: Mon–Fri 08:00–18:00; Sat–Sun 09:00–18:00.
- Roastery & bakery (Westpoort)
Address: Nieuw-Zeelandweg 15D, 1045 AL Amsterdam. This is where the beans are roasted and the cakes are made. (Note: older listings still show the previous Sloterdijk address, Poortland 6.) - Subscriptions & gift cards
Flexible coffee subscriptions ship to your door; both digital and in-house gift cards are available. - Workshops & coffee culture
Back to Black hosts beginner barista sessions and has documented journeys to the Dutch Barista Championship—this crew stays active in the scene. - Sustainability mindset
They publish how they minimize waste (reusable buckets, compostable labels) and aim for transparent sourcing via importers that support better practices at origin.
Best time to visit
- Mornings (8–10) for that first, quiet cup and fresh bakes.
- Mid-afternoons if you want a slower crowd and a window seat.
- Weekends are lively; weekdays are calmer.
- Note: these are daytime cafés—they close at 18:00. If you want “open late,” this isn’t that spot.
How to get there (simple & accurate)
- Weteringstraat (Center): a short walk from Vijzelgracht (M52) and Leidseplein; handy to the Museum Quarter and De Pijp.
- Van Hallstraat (West): in the Van Hallbuurt near Westerpark; easy by tram/bike from the center.
- Roastery & Bakery: in Westpoort (industrial area). Go by bike or public transport via Sloterdijk—don’t take the ferry; that’s for Amsterdam-Noord.
Pro tips
- Ask the barista. Tell them how you like your coffee; they’ll steer you toward the right origin and brew method.
- Try the house bakes. The bakery is theirs—pair an espresso brownie or apple pie with your drink.
- Take beans (or a subscription) home. It’s the best souvenir and ships flexibly.
- Check their socials/site before you go. Menus and seasonal coffees change; workshop slots pop up.
- Cards are fine. Specialty cafés here commonly accept cards; no need to carry cash for a coffee.
