Description
LOT61 Coffee Roasters is a favourite with Amsterdam coffee lovers, and it’s easy to see why. I’ve been more times than I can count; each visit feels like a warm hug for my taste buds. This isn’t your average coffee joint. It’s a proper coffee experience that might make you rethink your morning brew.
Walk in and the aroma hits you straight away. The roastery has an industrial-chic feel, but don’t let that distract you: LOT61 puts the coffee first. It’s a lovely spot to settle in, whether you’re after a quick espresso or a longer chat.
The team takes coffee seriously, from sourcing beans around the globe to choosing each roast. But they’re not snobs about it. The staff are friendly and happy to talk about what they’re roasting, like coffee-obsessed friends who also happen to make a mean espresso.
And that espresso? Smooth as silk, with enough of a kick to wake you up faster than a cold shower. If espresso isn’t your thing, no worries: they also serve pour-overs, cold brews and just about every other coffee you can think of.
Key Features
Key features and highlights include:
1. Roastery on-site: You can watch the roasting process right in front of you. It’s a little backstage pass to the world of coffee.
2. Tasting room: This is where you can sample different brews and figure out what you like. Think wine tasting, only you won’t leave with a hangover.
3. Barista training: Fancy yourself as the next coffee king or queen? LOT61 offers classes that cover the basics of making a great cup. I took one once, and it was genuinely eye-opening. Who knew there was so much to learn about grinding beans?
4. Retail shop: Take a piece of LOT61 home with you. They sell beans, brewing equipment and merch that’ll make your coffee-loving friends jealous.
5. Seasonal menus: The team changes up the offerings with the seasons, so there’s often something new to try.
6. Sustainability focus: LOT61 backs up its eco-friendly talk with action. From packaging to sourcing, the team keeps sustainability in mind.
7. Community events: From latte art throwdowns to coffee cuppings, there’s often something fun going on. It’s a good chance to meet other coffee nerds and geek out together.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit LOT61 depends on what you’re after.
If you’d like a quieter visit and a chance to chat with the baristas about coffee, try mid-morning on a weekday. You’ll have more time to ask questions and explore the menu.
Weekends are busier, with locals and visitors stopping in for a caffeine fix. It’s a good time to soak up the atmosphere and, if you’re in the mood, strike up a conversation with someone nearby.
LOT61 opens at 8 AM every day, so early birds can get there before the rush. There’s something rather lovely about being among the first customers, with freshly roasted beans in the air and the grinder starting up.
If you want to see the roasting in action, try visiting in the afternoon. That’s usually when the team fires up the roaster. It’s a great thing to watch, though you may find yourself staying longer than planned.
Visiting in the warmer months? LOT61 has a small outdoor seating area where you can sip your coffee and watch Amsterdam go by. A well-made cup in the sunshine is hard to beat.
How to Get There
LOT61 is easy to reach from the city centre, with a few options depending on where you’re staying.
If you’re staying in the city centre, you can get there in a few ways:
1. On foot: LOT61 is about a 15-20 minute walk from Dam Square. Head west along Raadhuisstraat and you’ll be there before long. It’s a pleasant stroll, and you can work up an appetite for the baked goods.
2. By bike: This is Amsterdam, after all. Rent a bike and you’ll get there in no time. Just remember to lock it up while you’re inside.
3. Public transport: Take tram 13 or 17 and get off at the Westermarkt stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the café.
4. Uber or taxi: If you’re in a hurry, or just really need that coffee, you can grab a ride. It’s quick, though you’ll miss the walk.
Coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station? Consider taking the scenic route along the canals. It’ll take a little longer, but the canal houses make for a lovely walk on the way to LOT61.
And don’t worry too much about getting lost. Amsterdammers are friendly, and most speak English. Ask for directions if you need them; you might even get a personal coffee recommendation along the way.
Tips for Visiting
A few handy tips can make a visit to LOT61 even better. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Come hungry: LOT61 serves some seriously good treats alongside its coffee. The banana bread is hard to resist, and the croissants are excellent too.
2. Bring your camera: The roastery and latte art make for lovely photos. Just don’t let your coffee go cold while you’re trying to get the perfect shot.
3. Ask questions: The staff know their stuff and are happy to share it. Ask about the roasting process, where the beans come from or how to brew them at home. They’re like coffee encyclopedias, with better hair.
4. Try something new: Your usual order is great, but LOT61 regularly experiments with roasts and brewing methods. You might find a new favourite.
5. Buy some beans: If you want to recreate the LOT61 experience at home, pick up a bag of freshly roasted beans. Your future self will thank you.
6. Check their social media: LOT61 shares details about special events and limited-time offerings on Instagram and Facebook. Give them a follow to keep up with what’s on.
7. Bring cash: They accept cards, but it’s handy to have some cash on you, especially if you plan to tip. The baristas put real care into their work.
8. Be patient: Good coffee takes time, particularly when the café is busy. Use the wait to chat with other customers or take in the atmosphere.
9. Consider a subscription: If you fall for LOT61’s coffee, have a look at their subscription service. You can get a little piece of Amsterdam delivered to your door every month.
10. Respect the space: LOT61 can get busy, so be mindful of other customers. Free up your table when you’re done, and keep your voice down if you’re discussing the finer points of single-origin beans.
11. Try the nitro cold brew: In the warmer months, this smooth, creamy drink really hits the spot. It’s strong, though, so maybe don’t order one right before bed unless you’re planning to stay up late.
12. Bring a friend: Coffee’s even better shared with a friend. You can split a pastry, too, and feel a little less guilty about it.
