BeerTemple

Description

The Beer Temple is a place that beer lovers will adore. This American-style beer bar is in the heart of Amsterdam. I found it during my last trip to the Dutch capital, and it was love at first sip.

Picture this: you’re wandering down Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, maybe a bit thirsty after sightseeing, when suddenly you spot it – the Beer Temple, beckoning you with the promise of golden, frothy goodness. As you step inside, you’re hit with that unmistakable brewery aroma – a heady mix of hops, malt, and pure magic.

The place opened its doors in 2009, and since then, it’s been serving up some of the best brews this side of the Atlantic. With 50 beers on tap, you’re spoilt for choice. And let’s not even get started on their bottle selection – we’re talking 100 to 150 different types! It’s like Christmas morning for beer enthusiasts.

But here’s the kicker—it’s not just about American beers (though they’ve got plenty of those). The Beer Temple also has a solid selection of European brews, plus its own house beers from its brewery, Poesiat & Kater. Talk about keeping it local!

Now, I know what you’re thinking -” But what if I’m not a beer fan?” Well, fear not, my friend. They’ve got you covered with soft drinks, wine, and cider. And for those watching their alcohol intake, there are plenty of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol options too. See? Everyone’s welcome at the Temple!

And let’s not forget about the grub. Their New York-style chicken strips are to die for – perfect for soaking up all that beer. They also have chicken wings, onion rings, corndogs, and even vegan options. Trust me, you won’t go hungry here.

Key Features

Alright, let’s break down what makes the Beer Temple so darn special:

1. Massive Beer Selection: With 50 beers on tap and up to 150 bottled varieties, you could visit every day for months and still not try everything. It’s like a never-ending beer festival!

2. American Beer Focus: If you’re hankering for a taste of the States, this is your spot. They’ve got 30 American tap beers that’ll transport your taste buds across the pond faster than you can say” cheers” .

3. Local Brews: Not to be outdone by their American cousins, the Beer Temple also showcases their house beers from Poesiat & Kater brewery. It’s a great way to taste some authentic Dutch craft beer.

4. Diverse Options: Whether you’re a hardcore beer geek or just along for the ride, there’s something for everyone. Wine, cider, soft drinks, and even non-alcoholic beers are all on the menu.

5. Mouth-Watering Snacks: Let’s face it, beer makes you hungry. Their New York-style snacks are the perfect complement to your brew. And they’ve got vegan options too – how thoughtful!

6. Knowledgeable Staff: The folks behind the bar really know their stuff. Don’t be shy about asking for recommendations – they’re always happy to help you find your perfect pint.

7. Cozy Atmosphere: Despite its name, the Beer Temple isn’t some cavernous hall. It’s got a warm, inviting vibe that makes you want to settle in for the long haul.

8. Part of the Morebeer Tour: If you’re feeling adventurous, the Beer Temple is stop number two on the Morebeer Tour. Complete the tour and you’ll even score a free t-shirt. Now that’s what I call a souvenir!

9. Central Location: Smack dab in the middle of Amsterdam, it’s easy to include in your sightseeing itinerary. Just don’t blame me if you end up spending more time here than at the museums!

10. Regular Events: Watch for special tastings, meet-the-brewer nights, and other beery events. It’s a great way to dive deeper into craft beer.

Best Time to Visit

Here’s the million-dollar question: when should you hit up the Beer Temple? Well, my beer-loving friends, that depends on what kind of experience you’re after.

If you’re looking for a chill, laid-back vibe where you can really dive into the beer list and chat with the bartenders, I’d recommend dropping by in the afternoon or early evening on a weekday. The place opens at 2 PM, so why not make it a late lunch stop? You can sample a few brews, munch on some chicken strips, and plan out the rest of your Amsterdam adventure.

But hey, if you’re after a livelier atmosphere, weekends are where it’s at. Friday and Saturday nights can get pretty bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists all united in their love for good beer. It’s a great opportunity to mingle, share tasting notes, and maybe make some new friends. Just keep in mind that it might be a bit harder to snag a seat during these peak times.

Here’s a pro tip for all you early birds: the Beer Temple opens at noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Getting there right as they open means you’ll have first dibs on seating and the staff’s full attention. It’s the perfect time to try that rare brew you’ve been eyeing or get some in-depth beer education from knowledgeable bartenders.

If you visit Amsterdam during the summer, the Beer Temple can be a refreshing oasis from the heat. Nothing beats ducking in for a cold one after wandering around the canals under the hot sun. Just remember that this is peak tourist season, so it might be a bit more crowded.

Winter visitors, don’t worry – the Beer Temple is just as appealing when it’s chilly outside. In fact, it’s the perfect spot to warm up with a rich, malty stout or a high-ABV barleywine. The cozy interior feels extra inviting when it’s grey and drizzly out there.

If you’re a real beer aficionado, keep an eye out for special events. The Beer Temple occasionally hosts tap takeovers, meet-the-brewer nights, and special tastings. These events usually happen on weekday evenings and can be a fantastic way to learn about specific breweries or beer styles.

Lastly, if you plan to participate in the Morebeer Tour (and why wouldn’t you? ), remember that the Beer Temple is stop number two. You might want to time your visit accordingly, depending on how many other stops you plan to hit that day. Just pace yourself – remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint!

How to Get There

Alright, folks, let’s talk about how to find this hoppy haven in the heart of Amsterdam. Trust me, it’s easier than pronouncing “Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal” after a few strong Belgian ales!

First things first, the Beer Temple is located at Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 250. It’s smack dab in the center of Amsterdam, which means it’s pretty darn accessible no matter where you’re coming from.

If you’re already exploring the city center, you’re in luck! The Beer Temple is within walking distance of many major attractions. It’s just a stone’s throw from Dam Square – about a 5-minute walk. So if you’ve been checking out the Royal Palace or doing some shopping, you’re practically there already!

For those of you relying on public transport (and let’s face it, that’s a smart move in Amsterdam), you’ve got plenty of options:

1. Tram: The closest tram stop is “Dam, ” which is served by lines 2, 12, and 17. From there, it’s just a short walk up Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal.

2. Metro: The nearest metro station is “Nieuwmarkt, ” served by lines 51, 53, and 54. It’s about a 10-minute walk from there.

3. Bus: Several bus lines stop near Dam Square, including 170, 172, and 174.

If you’re coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station, you’ve got a couple of choices. You can hop on a tram (lines 2 or 12) for a quick 5-minute ride to Dam Square. Or, if you’re feeling energetic, it’s about a 15-minute walk. Just head south down Damrak, and when you hit Dam Square, turn right onto Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal.

For the cyclists among you (and if you’re in Amsterdam, why wouldn’t you be? ), there’s plenty of bike parking near the Beer Temple. Just remember to lock up securely – and maybe save the stronger beers for after you’ve returned your rental bike!

If you’re taking a taxi or using a ride-share app, just give them the address (Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 250) and they’ll know where to go. It’s a well-known spot in the city.

One word of caution – the streets in central Amsterdam can be a bit of a maze, especially after a few beers. I may or may not have gotten turned around a time or two while searching for the Beer Temple. So don’t be afraid to use your smartphone’s GPS or ask a friendly local for directions.

And here’s a final tip from someone who learned the hard way – make sure you know how you’re getting back to your accommodation before you start sampling those high-ABV imperial stouts! The last thing you want is to be trying to figure out the tram system after a long night at the Beer Temple.