De Brabantse Aap is a cozy cafe and restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam. It sits on the bustling Spui square, just a short walk from Central Station. This charming spot offers visitors authentic Dutch cuisine and culture in a lively atmosphere.
Locals and tourists flock to De Brabantse Aap to enjoy cold beers and traditional Dutch snacks on the outdoor terrace. The cafe’s prime location in the trendy Nine Streets shopping area makes it a perfect pit stop while exploring the city. Visitors can soak up the sun and people-watch as they sip their drinks and nibble on bitterballen.
De Brabantse Aap has earned a reputation as a beloved Amsterdam institution. Its name, “The Brabant Monkey,” comes from an old local legend about a mischievous monkey that once roamed the city streets. This playful spirit lives on in the cafe’s warm and welcoming vibe, where both young and old gather to share good times and great food.
History and Significance
De Brabantse Aap has a rich past tied to Amsterdam’s Spui area. This establishment has evolved from its historical roots to become a beloved fixture in the city’s social scene.
Historic Spui Location
The Spui in Amsterdam has a colorful history dating back centuries. In the early 1600s, Brabant’s organ grinder entertained passersby with a small dancing monkey. The monkey collected coins in a hat, delighting crowds. This amusing sight became part of local lore.
Over time, the Spui developed into a bustling cultural hub. Bookshops, cafes, and markets sprang up. The area attracted artists, students, and intellectuals. Its central location made it a natural gathering place for Amsterdam’s residents and visitors alike.
Evolution of De Brabantse Aap
De Brabantse Aap cafe opened its doors on the historic Spui, paying homage to the area’s monkey legend. It started as a small Belgian beer bar, offering a cozy spot for drinks and conversation. The cafe quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists.
As years passed, De Brabantse Aap expanded its offerings. It now serves a wider selection of beers and food. The cafe’s interior retains a charming, old-world feel. Patrons can enjoy their drinks while people-watching on the lively Spui.
Today, De Brabantse Aap is a beloved Amsterdam institution. It blends history with modern hospitality. The cafe continues to draw crowds seeking good beer and a taste of local culture. Its success reflects the enduring appeal of Amsterdam’s cafe scene.
Location and Accessibility
De Brabantse Aap is in a prime spot in Amsterdam’s city center. Its central location makes it easy for both locals and tourists to find and visit, exploring the vibrant Dutch capital.
Proximity to Centraal Station
De Brabantse Aap is about a 15-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. On their way to the pub, visitors can stroll through charming streets lined with shops and cafes. The scenic route takes guests past iconic canals and historic buildings, offering a taste of Amsterdam’s beauty.
For those who prefer not to walk, a quick 5-minute taxi ride brings visitors to De Brabantse Aap’s doorstep. This option is handy for travelers with luggage or on rainy days.
Tram Connections
Several tram lines stop near De Brabantse Aap, making it simple to reach from different parts of Amsterdam. Trams 2 and 12 have stops within a 2-minute walk of the pub. These frequent services connect De Brabantse Aap to popular areas like Leidseplein and Museumplein.
Visitors can buy tram tickets at stations or on board. A day pass is a good choice for those planning to explore more of Amsterdam before or after visiting De Brabantse Aap. The pub’s staff can help with directions and tram information if needed.
Atmosphere and Ambience
De Brabantse Aap offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Amsterdam. The pub’s prime location and inviting ambiance make it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Perfect for People Watching
In the heart of Amsterdam’s Centrum, De Brabantse Aap provides an ideal vantage point for observing the bustling city life. Large windows frame the vibrant street scenes, allowing patrons to soak in the energy of the surrounding area.
Visitors can enjoy their drinks while watching a colorful parade of locals, tourists, and cyclists pass. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular during warmer months, offering an up-close view of Amsterdam’s charming streets and canals.
The pub’s interior is cozy and inviting. Warm lighting and rustic decor create a comfortable, relaxing, and social space.
Impressive Beer List
Beer enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise at De Brabantse Aap. The pub boasts an extensive selection of local and international brews, catering to a wide range of tastes.
From crisp Dutch pilsners to rich Belgian ales, the beer menu offers something for everyone. Knowledgeable staff members are always ready to recommend the perfect pint based on individual preferences.
The pub regularly rotates its tap selections, ensuring there’s always something new to try. This commitment to variety keeps regulars returning and allows tourists to sample unique local flavors.
De Brabantse Aap hosts occasional beer tasting events, allowing patrons to expand their beer knowledge and discover new favorites.
Menu and Offerings
De Brabantse Aap offers a delightful mix of Dutch pub fare and refreshing beverages. This cozy Amsterdam spot offers tasty snacks and hearty meals alongside an impressive selection of drinks.
Food and Snacks
The menu at De Brabantse Aap features classic Dutch pub grub and international favorites. Patrons can munch on traditional bitterballen, crispy deep-fried meatballs served with mustard. For a heartier option, the kitchen whips up savory burgers and sandwiches.
Cheese lovers will appreciate the kaasplankje, which is a Dutch cheese board that is perfect for sharing. Those craving something sweet can indulge in apple pie, a beloved Dutch dessert. The pub also offers vegetarian choices to cater to different dietary needs.
During busy times, guests might wait a bit for their food. But the tasty results are worth the wait.
Beverage Selection
De Brabantse Aap boasts an impressive beer list that keeps locals and tourists returning. The pub serves a variety of Dutch and Belgian brews on tap, including popular lagers and craft options. Beer enthusiasts can sample local favorites or try new flavors.
For non-beer drinkers, the bar stocks a range of spirits and wines. Patrons can sip on jenever, a traditional Dutch gin, or opt for a refreshing cocktail. On chilly days, warm up with a mug of rich Dutch coffee.
The knowledgeable staff can help guests navigate the drink menu and suggest pairings with food items. Happy hour specials offer great value for those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Visiting De Brabantse Aap
De Brabantse Aap offers a charming spot to relax and enjoy Dutch snacks in Amsterdam. Visitors can soak in the lively atmosphere while sipping a cold beer and watching the world go by.
Operating Hours
De Brabantse Aap welcomes guests daily, with extended hours on weekends. From Sunday to Wednesday, the café opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM. This schedule allows plenty of time for lunch, afternoon drinks, or dinner.
On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, De Brabantse Aap stays open later. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere until 1:00 AM on these nights. The extended hours make it a perfect spot for a night out with friends or a relaxing end to a busy day of sightseeing.
Best Times to Visit
Mornings at De Brabantse Aap tend to be quieter, ideal for those seeking a peaceful start to their day. The café comes alive during lunch, with locals and tourists dropping in for a quick bite.
Afternoons are perfect for people-watching, especially on sunny days when the outdoor seating fills up. Evenings bring a lively crowd, with the buzz peaking on weekends. For a more relaxed experience, weekday afternoons or early evenings are recommended.
During popular events in Amsterdam, De Brabantse Aap can get quite busy. Visitors might want to arrive early or make a reservation to secure a spot.
Customer Experiences
De Brabantse Aap in Amsterdam draws mixed reactions from visitors. People share varied impressions of the food, service, and atmosphere at this popular spot in the city center.
Guest Reviews
Many travelers have shared their thoughts about De Brabantse Aap on review sites. Some guests praise the bar’s lively atmosphere and a prime location for people-watching. They enjoy sipping drinks while taking in the bustling Spui Square scene.
Other reviewers expressed disappointment with the customer service. A few mention encounters with rude staff members, especially bartenders. The food quality also receives mixed feedback. Some diners find the Dutch and European dishes tasty, while others describe them as mediocre.
The restaurant’s prices are in the mid-range for Amsterdam. Visitors should expect to pay around €€ —€€€ for meals and drinks here.
Local and Tourist Impressions
De Brabantse Aap attracts both Amsterdam locals and tourists exploring the Centrum area. Its central spot makes it a convenient meeting place or rest stop during sightseeing.
Tourists often stumble upon the restaurant while wandering the charming streets near Spui Square. Many appreciate the outdoor seating for observing Amsterdam.
