Brouwerij Troost

I’ve been telling people about Brouwerij Troost for about two years now, and it’s honestly become my go-to spot for a laid-back afternoon or a chill Friday evening. My roommate discovered it a couple of years ago and it’s basically become her second living room. Every sunny afternoon, every Friday after work — Troost is where she ends up. And I get why. It’s not just the beer, though that’s solid. It’s the vibe. The place is tucked into a former monastery on Cornelis Troostplein in De Pijp, so there’s this quiet, almost spiritual feel to it. High ceilings, exposed brick, communal tables — it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a while. And the beer? They brew everything on-site. Their core range is always there — a nice blonde, a hoppy IPA, a smooth amber, and a rich porter. My roommate loves the IPA, but I’m more of a porter person, and theirs hits that chocolate-coffee note in the best way. If you’re not sure what to try, get the beer flight. It’s a great way to sample a few different brews, and I know a guy who only drinks Heineken and tried a flight here and now orders the tripel every time. The food is better than it has any right to be at a brewery — I’m talking about the Troost burger, which is one of the best in Amsterdam. It’s not just a beer garden, it’s a full-on experience. In summer, the terrace on the quiet square is where it’s at. It’s not just a spot, it’s a place. My coworker Tom always says he’d rather go here than the big touristy spots, and I agree. It’s relaxed, local, and not trying too hard to be anything other than itself. The only real downside is that it gets packed on sunny weekends, especially on the terrace. If you want a seat, show up by 2 PM on Saturday or Sunday. I know a few people who’ve missed out because they waited too long. The Westergas location in Westerpark is bigger and more event-y, but for a regular afternoon or evening, this one is it. If you’re in De Pijp, check out the menu — they’re not just serving beer, they’re serving a vibe. You’ll want to try the burger. And yes, you should get the flight if it’s your first time. I know someone who was skeptical, but now she’s a regular. It’s not fancy, but it’s real. It’s the kind of place that feels like home, even if you’re just passing through. If you’re visiting and want to try a real Amsterdam local spot, this is it. And if you’re in town, check if that deal’s still on — I’ve seen the terrace reservations get booked out early for weekends.