Description
Picture this: You’re wandering through the bustling streets of Amsterdam, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. Suddenly, you stumble upon a hidden gem – the Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar. Let me tell you, this place is something special!
As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The decor is quirky and eclectic, with comfy sofas, funky artwork, and even a couple of adorable white cats lounging around (Iâm not kidding – they actually live there! ). It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, which is probably how it got its name.
Now, I must be upfront with you – Lost in Amsterdam isnât just your average cafe. It’s actually Amsterdam’s first smoking lounge, and it’s been a favorite hangout spot for locals and tourists alike for over 15 years. But donât worry if that’s not your thing – there’s plenty more to enjoy here.
The star of the show has to be their cocktails. These guys know how to mix a mean drink, and they’ve even published their own recipe book called âThe Little Lost Book of Cockailsâ. Trust me, you’ll want to try one (or three) of their signature concoctions. And donât even get me started on their milkshakes – I’ve heard people say they’re the best in the city!
But what really sets Lost in Amsterdam apart is the vibe. It’s relaxed, it’s fun, and it’s 100% Amsterdam. You can chill out with a drink, chat with friendly staff and fellow travelers, or groove to the beats of their live house DJs. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing or to kick off a night on the town.
Key Features
Alright, let’s break down what makes Lost in Amsterdam such a special spot:
1. Unique Atmosphere: The moment you walk in, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a secret hideaway. The eclectic decor, cozy seating, and laid-back vibe create an ambiance that’s hard to find anywhere else in the city.
2. Cocktail Paradise: These folks take their mixology seriously. With a wide range of creative cocktails on offer, you’re sure to find something that tickles your tastebuds. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try one of their boozy shakes?
3. Live Music: Get ready to groove! Lost in Amsterdam hosts live house DJs regularly, adding an extra layer of energy and excitement to your visit. It’s like having your own private party right in the heart of Amsterdam.
4. Friendly Staff: The team here is top-notch. They’re always ready with a smile and a chat, making you feel right at home. Donât be shy to ask for recommendations – they know their stuff!
5. Feline Friends: Okay, this might seem like a weird one, but hear me out. The resident white cats add a unique charm to the place. It’s like visiting a friend’s house. .. if your friend happened to own a super cool lounge in Amsterdam.
6. Prime Location: Situated on Nieuwendijk, right in the city center, Lost in Amsterdam is perfectly placed for a pit stop during your Amsterdam adventures. It’s easy to find, but still feels like a hidden treasure.
7. Extended Hours: Open late (till 1 am on weekdays and 3 am on weekends), it’s a great spot for night owls or those suffering from jet lag. Trust me, I’ve been there!
8. Smoking Lounge: If that’s your thing, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more comfortable and welcoming environment in Amsterdam. If it’s not, no worries – there’s plenty more to enjoy.
9. Charging Stations: In this day and age, this is a lifesaver. You can juice up your phone while you relax with a drink. No more panic about losing battery mid-Instagram story!
10. The Little Lost Book of Cocktails: If you fall in love with their drinks (and trust me, you probably will), you can take a piece of Lost in Amsterdam home with you. Their cocktail recipe book is the perfect souvenir for budding mixologists.
Best Time to Visit
Now, when’s the best time to hit up Lost in Amsterdam? Well, that really depends on what you’re after. But lemme give you my two cents based on personal experience and what I’ve heard from other travelers.
If you’re looking for a chill, laid-back vibe, I’d recommend swinging by in the afternoon or early evening. It’s usually quieter then, so you can really soak in the atmosphere, chat with the staff, and maybe even snag a prime spot on one of those comfy sofas. Plus, this is a great time to try out their famous milkshakes – trust me, they’re the perfect pick-me-up after a day of exploring the city.
But if you’re after more of a party atmosphere, evenings are where it’s at. The place really comes alive as the sun goes down, especially on weekends. The cocktails start flowing, the music gets pumped up, and you might even catch one of their live DJ sets. It’s a fantastic spot to start your night out in Amsterdam or to while away the hours if you’re not in the mood for club-hopping.
During peak tourist season (usually summer and around major holidays), Lost in Amsterdam can get pretty busy, especially in the evenings. If you’re not a fan of crowds, you might want to visit during shoulder season (spring or fall). The weather in Amsterdam is still decent, and you’ll have a better chance of nabbing a good spot without having to wait.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: if you’re visiting Amsterdam in the springtime, Lost in Amsterdam is an absolute must-visit. The city comes alive with tulips and that fresh spring energy, and there’s something magical about sipping a cocktail here while watching the world go by. I spent almost every evening here one spring, and let me tell you, it was time well spent!
Just keep in mind their opening hours: they’re open from 10 am to 1 am Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 am to 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays. So whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, there’s plenty of time to get lost in Lost in Amsterdam!
How to Get There
Alright, let’s get you to Lost in Amsterdam! The lounge is located at Nieuwendijk 19a, right in the heart of Amsterdam’s city center. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Amsterdam Centraal Station, which makes it super convenient if you’re coming in by train or tram.
If you’re arriving at Amsterdam Centraal (and let’s face it, most visitors do at some point), you’re in luck. Lost in Amsterdam is literally a 5-minute walk from the station. Here’s what you do:
1. Exit the station on the city center side (south side).
2. Walk straight ahead down Damrak, the main street leading from the station.
3. After about 3 minutes, you’ll see Nieuwendijk on your right. Turn onto this street.
4. Walk down Nieuwendijk for about 2 minutes, and you’ll find Lost in Amsterdam on your left at number 19a.
Easy peasy, right? Just keep your eyes peeled – the entrance is a bit understated, which adds to that ‘hidden gem’ feel.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in the city, you’ve got a few options:
By Tram: Take any tram that goes to Amsterdam Centraal Station (1, 2, 5, 13, 17), get off at the last stop, and follow the walking directions above.
By Metro: Take any metro line to Centraal Station and again, follow the walking directions.
By Bike: If you’re brave enough to cycle in Amsterdam (and many visitors are! ), you can easily bike to Nieuwendijk. There are plenty of bike racks nearby to park your ride.
On Foot: Amsterdam’s city center is very walkable. From Dam Square, it’s about a 5-minute walk north on Damrak, then left onto Nieuwendijk.
By Uber or Taxi: While this is an option, it’s often quicker (and definitely cheaper) to walk or take public transport, especially if you’re already in the city center.
One thing to keep in mind – Amsterdam’s city center can get pretty crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Give yourself a little extra time to navigate the throngs of people, especially if you’re walking down Damrak or Nieuwendijk.
And here’s a final tip from someone who’s gotten lost more times than I’d like to admit: don’t be afraid to ask for directions! Amsterdammers are generally friendly and most speak excellent English. Just ask for “Lost in Amsterdam on Nieuwendijk” and they’ll point you in the right direction.