Description
On Amsterdam’s Reguliersdwarsstraat, Coffeeshop The Otherside has been serving cannabis and good company since the 1980s. It has a cosy feel and a cast of characters that makes you feel at home, whether you live nearby or are just passing through.
Step inside and you’ll catch the mix of freshly brewed coffee and cannabis straight away. The decor is eclectic, with vintage posters, mismatched furniture and warm lighting that makes it tempting to settle in for a while.
The people are a big part of the appeal. Staff are friendly and happy to answer questions about the menu, and the crowd brings together locals and visitors from all over. You might even spot someone familiar, though there are no guarantees.
Whether you want to buy something to take away or sit down for a smoke, The Otherside has both options. Their cake is popular, too, and well worth asking about.
Key Features
Key features and highlights include:
1. Prime Location: Right in Amsterdam’s “Secret Village,” it’s a handy spot to start or end a night out.
2. Historical Vibes: The coffeeshop occupies a historic building, giving you a glimpse of old Amsterdam while you enjoy your refreshments.
3. Top-Notch Product Selection: The menu ranges from classic strains to newer hybrids, with plenty to ask the staff about.
4. Chill Atmosphere: The relaxed setting makes it easy to chat with other visitors and meet people from around the world.
5. Awesome Tunes: The music sets a good mood without taking over the room.
6. Delicious Snacks: The cake is a favourite, and there are other snacks on hand if you get hungry.
7. Reasonable Prices: A visit to The Otherside needn’t put too much of a dent in your wallet.
8. Take-Away Option: Not in the mood to stay? You can pick up your order to go.
9. Non-Smoker Friendly: Coffees, teas and soft drinks give non-smoking friends something to enjoy, too.
10. Local Hotspot: Tourists come through, but plenty of Amsterdam locals visit as well (pun intended).
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on the kind of atmosphere you’re after. Here’s a rough guide.
Mornings (10 AM – 12 PM): If you’re up early, or still awake from the night before, mornings tend to be quiet. Order a coffee and a slice of cake, and you might find a window seat for people-watching.
Afternoons (12 PM – 5 PM): Things pick up around lunchtime, with a mix of locals on breaks and visitors stopping in for a rest. It’s a good time to get a feel for the place.
Evenings (5 PM – 1 AM): The room gets livelier as the evening goes on, with music and plenty of conversation. Some people stop by before heading to nearby clubs; others call in after a day of sightseeing.
Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekdays are usually more relaxed, while weekends can get busy. For a quieter visit, try a weekday afternoon. If you want more of a nightlife feel, come by on a weekend evening.
Special Events: Keep an eye out for events at The Otherside. They sometimes host live music or themed nights.
Cannabis Cup Season: If you’re in Amsterdam during the Cannabis Cup, usually held in November, the coffeeshop can get busier. It’s a chance to meet cannabis enthusiasts visiting from elsewhere.
How to Get There
Getting to The Otherside is straightforward if you’re already in central Amsterdam. The walk through the surrounding streets is part of the appeal, too.
By Foot:
If you’re in the centre, walking is often easiest. The shop is on Reguliersdwarsstraat, close to several landmarks. From Dam Square, allow about 10 minutes: walk south along Rokin, turn right onto Spui, then take your first left onto Reguliersdwarsstraat.
By Bike:
Renting a bike is a very Amsterdam way to get around, and the centre is easy to explore on two wheels. Just don’t cycle after using cannabis.
By Public Transport:
Amsterdam’s public transport can get you close to The Otherside without much fuss.
Tram: Take tram 2, 11, or 12 to the “Keizersgracht” stop. From there, it’s a short walk.
Metro: The closest metro station is “Rokin.” From the station, it’s about a 5-minute walk.
By Taxi or Uber:
Taxis and Ubers are easy to find, especially late at night. Give the driver Reguliersdwarsstraat as your destination.
From Schiphol Airport:
Heading straight into town from the airport? You have a couple of options:
1. Take the train to Amsterdam Centraal Station (about 20 minutes), then follow the directions above.
2. Take an airport taxi or Uber directly to The Otherside (about 30 minutes, depending on traffic).
Pro Tip: Download the “9292” app before your trip. It’s useful for planning journeys on Dutch public transport.
Tips for Visiting
Whether you’re familiar with Amsterdam coffeeshops or visiting one for the first time, a few simple tips can make your visit to The Otherside easier.
1. Bring Cash: Many places in Amsterdam accept cards, but having some cash on hand is useful. It also makes it easier to buy a round for new friends.
2. Check the Menu: The selection can feel like a lot at first. Ask the staff for recommendations based on what you like and your level of experience.
3. Pace Yourself: Start slowly, especially if you’re new to cannabis. You can always have more, but you can’t undo what you’ve already consumed.
4. Try the Cake: The cake is a popular choice. Even if you don’t want cannabis, you can still ask whether a regular slice is available.
5. Bring ID: You need to be 18 or older to visit Amsterdam coffeeshops, and staff may check your ID. Bring it along.
6. Mind the Tobacco: If you don’t smoke tobacco, ask for a pure joint. Some pre-rolled options in Amsterdam contain tobacco.
7. Respect the Space: The Otherside has a shared, cosy feel. Be considerate of other customers, keep your voice down and don’t occupy a table if the shop is busy.
8. Stay Hydrated: The drinks menu gives you plenty of options. Cottonmouth is real.
9. Don’t Take Photos Inside: People generally don’t appreciate being photographed in coffeeshops. Respect their privacy and keep your camera away.
10. Explore the Neighborhood: Reguliersdwarsstraat is worth a wander. Take some time to explore the street before or after your visit.
11. Don’t Rush: The Dutch word “gezellig” describes a cosy, friendly atmosphere. Take your time and settle into the easygoing pace.
12. Strike Up a Conversation: A friendly chat with someone at the next table can be part of the fun. If the moment feels right, say hello.
13. Know the Rules: You can’t smoke tobacco inside, and you mustn’t take cannabis products out of the country.
14. Visit During Off-Peak Hours: If you prefer fewer people around, try a weekday afternoon.
15. Leave a Tip: Tipping isn’t required, but staff appreciate it when you’ve had good service.
