Description
Ah, Luuk’s Coffee Noordermarkt. Now there’s a spot that’ll make any coffee lover’s heart skip a beat. Set in Amsterdam’s Jordaan, this cozy little café is one I came across on a recent trip through the city. It feels like a secret hideaway, even though it’s right there in plain sight.
Walk in and you’ll catch the smell of freshly roasted beans straight away. It’s enough to make you hungry for coffee before you’ve even ordered. The interior mixes modern and rustic touches, with exposed brick, wooden beams and sleek metal accents. It’s got a hip feel without trying too hard, which is always nice.
But the coffee is the main event. Luuk’s takes its brews seriously, and you can taste the care in each cup. They source beans from some of Europe’s best roasters, then the baristas make everything with real attention. Whether you fancy a velvety flat white or a punchy espresso, you’re in for a treat.
And the pastries are worth saving room for. You’ll find homemade treats like flaky croissants, gooey cinnamon rolls and Dutch stroopwafels. Grab one (or three) to go with your coffee; you won’t regret it.
Key Features
Here’s what makes Luuk’s Coffee Noordermarkt stand out:
1. Top-notch coffee: The team knows its beans and has a rotating selection of single-origin coffees worth trying.
2. Cozy atmosphere: It’s a lovely place to settle in with a book or catch up with friends. The relaxed, welcoming feel makes it easy to linger.
3. Prime location: Right on the Noordermarkt, with a view of one of Amsterdam’s prettiest squares. Saturdays bring the market and plenty of activity.
4. Friendly staff: The baristas know their stuff and are happy to talk about the latest brews or suggest something to suit your taste.
5. Outdoor seating: When the weather cooperates (never a sure thing in Amsterdam), grab a table outside and settle in for some people-watching.
6. Ethical sourcing: Luuk’s focuses on sustainability, so you can enjoy your latte knowing they’re making an effort to reduce their impact.
7. Homemade treats: The pastries deserve another mention. Really, don’t leave without trying one.
8. Wifi: Digital nomads can use the free wifi. Just be considerate and don’t hold onto a table during the rush.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on what you’re after.
If you’re an early bird who likes a quiet start, aim for around 8 AM, when they open. You’ll beat the morning rush and get first pick of the pastries.
By about 10 AM, things start to pick up. It’s a good time to soak up the atmosphere and watch the square, though groups may have to wait for a table.
Lunchtime can get hectic, especially on weekdays, so skip it if you’d rather avoid crowds. If you don’t mind the bustle, grab a sandwich and watch local office workers on their break.
My favorite time is late afternoon, around 3 or 4 PM. The lunch crowd has usually cleared out, so you can enjoy coffee and cake without feeling rushed. The light through the windows can be lovely then, too, if you’re after a photo.
Weekends are a different story. Saturday mornings get lively when the Noordermarkt is in full swing. It’s busy, but there’s a lovely energy to the square. Sunday afternoons tend to feel more relaxed, with locals and visitors taking their time over brunch.
One local tip: if you’re in Amsterdam in summer, keep an eye out for Luuk’s occasional evening events. They sometimes stay open late and serve cocktails alongside the usual coffee menu. It’s a different side of the café and a nice way to start a night out in the Jordaan.
How to Get There
Getting to Luuk’s Coffee Noordermarkt is easy, and the walk through the Jordaan is part of the pleasure. Take your time and let yourself build up an appetite for that coffee.
Coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station? You have a few options:
1. On foot: It’s about a 20-minute walk. Head west along Prins Hendrikkade, then turn left onto Singel. Follow it to Brouwersgracht, turn right and keep going until you see the Noordermarkt on your left.
2. By tram: Take tram 5 from Centraal Station and get off at Westermarkt. From there, it’s about a five-minute walk. Head north on Westerstraat and you’ll reach the Noordermarkt.
3. By bike: This is Amsterdam, after all. Rent a bike and pedal through the city streets. It takes about 10 minutes from Centraal Station, and you’ll find bike parking around the Noordermarkt.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in the city, Nieuwmarkt is the nearest metro station, about a 15-minute walk away. Honestly, though, a bike or a leisurely stroll is a better way to see the area. Amsterdam rewards a bit of wandering, and you might come across somewhere unexpected along the way.
One more tip: if you’re using Google Maps, search for “Luuk’s Coffee Noordermarkt” rather than just “Luuk’s Coffee”. That should take you to the right location. Their other cafés are nice too, but this one has the Noordermarkt on its doorstep.
Tips for Visiting
A few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Luuk’s Coffee Noordermarkt:
1. Try the specials: Luuk’s often serves seasonal drinks and limited-edition roasts. Ask the barista what’s new; they’re usually happy to talk coffee.
2. Bring cash: They accept cards, but it’s handy to have a few euros on you in case you need them for a small purchase.
3. Be patient on busy days: The café can fill up, especially at weekends. If you’re in a hurry, choose a quieter time. Otherwise, settle in and enjoy the wait.
4. Explore the market: Visiting on a Saturday? Browse the Noordermarkt before or after your coffee. You’ll find local produce, flowers and crafts.
5. Bring your camera: The café and the surrounding streets make for lovely photos. You might want to capture a few memories while you’re there.
6. Try the local treats: Pair your coffee with a Dutch specialty. The “appeltaart” (apple pie) is delicious with a cappuccino.
7. Bring a book or journal: Luuk’s has a laid-back feel that suits a quiet read or a bit of writing. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here.
8. Chat with the locals: Amsterdammers are generally friendly, and you might pick up a useful tip for the rest of your trip.
9. Consider takeaway: If the café is packed or you’d rather explore, take your coffee to go and stroll along the nearby canals.
10. Visit more than once: You may find yourself coming back for another coffee during your stay.
11. Learn a little Dutch: The staff speak excellent English, but a “Dank je wel” (thank you) or “Lekker! ” (delicious) is always appreciated.
12. Respect the space: Luuk’s is fairly small, so be mindful of other customers. If you’ve finished your coffee and the café is busy, consider freeing up your table.
