Description
Taboo Bar Amsterdam is a proper gem in the city’s gay scene. I found it on a recent visit and, honestly, it turned out to be a lovely spot to spend an evening.
It’s more than your standard gay bar: Taboo has both a bar and a restaurant, right on Reguliersdwarsstraat, Amsterdam’s main gay street. There are two big terraces, too, where you can sit outside with a cocktail and watch the street go by.
I’m always glad to find a good drinks deal, and Taboo offers discounts on selected cocktails. The food leans towards comfort-food favourites, the kind of thing that hits the spot after a day out in the city.
There’s plenty happening beyond the food and drinks. Expect music, games to break the ice, and drag shows that’ll have you laughing. It’s a fun mix, whether you’re out with friends or hoping to meet a few new ones.
Taboo is open every day, from the afternoon into the early hours. So whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you’ll likely find a time that suits.
Key Features
Here’s what makes Taboo Bar Amsterdam worth a visit.
First, the location: it’s right on Reguliersdwarsstraat, in the middle of Amsterdam’s gay scene. You’ll find plenty of other bars nearby, so it’s easy to make a night of it.
Then there are the cocktails. Taboo runs deals on selected drinks, and the menu has a good range of options to try. Just mind your step if you’ve had a few.
If you’re hungry, the comfort-food menu covers everything from snacks to full meals. I personally recommend their bitterballen – they’re so good, they should be illegal.
The atmosphere has plenty of energy, and the music ranges from pop hits to disco classics. It’s a good place to settle in, whether you’re there for a quick drink or a longer night out.
The drag shows are a highlight, with queens who know how to put on a show. Taboo also runs games that make it easy to start chatting or have a laugh with your mates.
And the terraces are spacious, with room to enjoy a drink and watch the crowds on Reguliersdwarsstraat. On a warm Amsterdam evening, an outdoor table is a lovely place to be.
The staff are friendly and happy to help with a recommendation if you’re undecided about what to order. That makes settling in all the easier.
Best Time to Visit
Wondering when to visit Taboo Bar Amsterdam? It’s open every day, though the feel of the place changes a little from one night to the next.
For a quieter evening, try Monday through Thursday. The bar opens at 4 PM and stays open until 3 AM, so it works for after-work drinks or a midweek night out. It’s usually less crowded, which makes catching up with friends a bit easier.
Friday and Saturday are better if you want a busier night. Taboo opens at 3 PM and closes at 4 AM, and the music and crowd tend to bring the energy up. It can get packed, so arrive early if you want to choose your spot.
Sunday has its own appeal: the bar is open from 3 PM to 3 AM, so you can ease into the evening with a drink and see where the night takes you.
Keep an eye out for special events, too. Taboo hosts themed nights, drag competitions, and holiday parties. I went to a Halloween bash once, and the costumes were so good I could’ve been watching RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Pride season is another lively time to visit. Amsterdam Pride usually falls in late July or early August, and Taboo gets especially busy. The atmosphere is celebratory, so expect a crowd.
Amsterdam weather can change quickly, but Taboo has both indoor and outdoor spaces. In summer, the terraces are a great place to sit and people-watch; when it’s cold, the interior offers a cosy spot to enjoy the night.
If you’re keen to catch a drag show, check the schedule before you go. Performances usually happen later in the evening, and they’re well worth timing your visit around.
How to Get There
Getting a little lost in Amsterdam can be part of the fun, but Taboo Bar is easy enough to find once you know where to go.
Taboo is on Reguliersdwarsstraat, right in the centre of Amsterdam’s gay district. The name takes a bit of practice, but you’ll soon recognise the street.
If you’re flying in, you’ll arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. From there, you have a few straightforward ways to reach the city centre.
The train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal Station runs frequently and takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Once you arrive at Centraal, you’re well placed to head towards Taboo.
From Centraal Station, you can walk for about 20 minutes through the city centre. Head south along Damrak, continue onto Rokin, then turn right onto Reguliersdwarsstraat.
If you’d rather save your legs, take tram 4 or 14 from Centraal Station and get off at Rembrandtplein. Taboo Bar is a short walk from there.
You can also rent a bike if you’re comfortable cycling in Amsterdam. It’s a great way to see the city, but watch out for the tram tracks; they can catch you off guard if you’re not used to them.
If you’re staying at a hotel, ask the concierge for directions. They can point you the right way and may have a few useful local tips.
It’s also handy to download an Amsterdam map to your phone before you head out. The streets can be confusing, especially after a couple of cocktails, and you’ll be glad to have it.
Give yourself time to explore along the way. You might wander down a side street or stop for a stroopwafel; that’s part of the pleasure of getting around Amsterdam.
Once you reach Reguliersdwarsstraat, you’ll be right in the middle of the action. Look for Taboo and head in for a drink, a meal, or a night of entertainment.
Whether you walk, cycle, or take the tram, getting to Taboo Bar is straightforward. Enjoy the trip, and have a good night.
