Did someone say Brunch in Amsterdam?
So, where to start? Breakfast! Brunch makes even the rainiest days a little brighter, and that's why there’s no better way to start Travel and Taste.
Bakers and Roasters (De Pijp)
The top-rated brunch spot in Amsterdam. This brunch favourite was opened by a Kiwi and a Brazilian man after they met on a night out in Hollywood, and Bakers and Roasters reflects their story. The cafe has a fusion of the New Zealand and Brazilian background in their food, drinks and interior design. They aren’t afraid to say that the popular brunch spot doesn’t come with the cheapest prices, however, this reflects the in-house baked cakes, fresh juices and excellent service. They also partner with sustainable and organic local suppliers whenever they can. They now have two locations, De Pijp and the centre of Amsterdam.
My thoughts:
I have now been here twice and I must admit that both times I have had to get the B&R special. Who can resist two breakfasts in one? Eggs, however you like them, on fresh sourdough bread with maple bacon sounds fab, then you have the addition of 3 fluffy pancakes. Whether you mix it all together or make yourself a two-course breakfast, this is the perfect mix of savoury and sweet for all brunch lovers.
Other highlights on the menu include the Banana Pecan French Toast with amazing slices of fresh banana bread and also the Navajo eggs. One thing to note is that they do have an add on fee for menu changes, which could add up on your bill if you’re a fussy eater.
Despite nearly always being at full capacity, the service was still very speedy. However, be warned that if you are visiting over the weekend you may find that you will have to wait your turn as unfortunately booking here is a no go. But don’t worry about being bored waiting around, you can explore the surrounding area of De Pijp whilst you are waiting for your text to tell you your table is ready.
Bakers and Roasters Reflection:
Price: $$$
Location: Perfect if you want to explore De Pijp or visit the Heineken Experience
Food: ★★★★☆
Insta Worthy: ♥♥♥♥♡
Photo: B&R Special, Iced Latte and Navajo Eggs with Orange and Turmeric Juice
Mr Stacks
Under the mission of reducing the use of lactose products in brunch, Mr Stacks was set up under the JACKS brand. And it is safe to say, that their artistic menu attracts vegans and non-vegans alike. To say the least, at first glance, none of the dishes look healthy, however, their products are made from sustainable and organic products with most being homemade, making them as healthy as possible.
My thoughts:
Wow. That is all I have to say. If you want to know why then just look at the photo... With a giant stack of pancakes, drizzled with Nutella, berries and not to forget homemade candy floss, you sure won’t be hungry for a good few hours (make sure to go with an empty stomach) and good luck even finishing it! Be aware that you will need a sweet tooth, as the pancakes become quite sickly after a while, making a challenge for most to finish.
You will find plenty of vegan-friendly meals such as the plant based-burger stack or banana breakfast stack. Of course, there are alternatives with meat, the BBQ chicken stack seemed a popular choice. Whether you are a savoury or sweet lover, you will be spoilt for choice.
The interior has a modern and laid back vibe, with an open kitchen so you can see food being prepared. As a group of 6, our food did take some time however, the staff were always friendly and hard-working.
Booking is only possible Monday to Thursday so again, if you are visiting over the weekend, be prepared to wait.
Mr Stacks Reflection:
Price: $$$
Location: Perfect if you want to explore De Pijp and avoid the centre of Amsterdam
Food: ★★★☆☆
Insta Worthy: ♥♥♥♥♥ (I don’t think even Instagram is ready for the pancakes)
Photo: Choco Hazelnut Stack
Teds (Utrecht & Haarlem)
With 4 locations across the Netherlands, Utrecht, The Hague, Haarlem and Amsterdam. Teds is a unique place to have Brunch at any time of the day. No one is judging if you have brunch at 4pm or choose to have a cocktail at 9am. Teds was designed with just that in mind. It gets better when you find out the name is inspired by the founders firstborn, Ted the French Bulldog.
My thoughts:
To enjoy Teds you can stay in Amsterdam or, if you can, venture outside of Amsterdam, it gives you the chance to explore other towns and cities. After visiting both Teds Haarlem and Teds Utrecht, I can safely say both had a lovely atmosphere with even their menu making you smile with a fun vibe.
Both venues are very different, making very different experiences. Haarlem has a quirky interior of different styles (all insta worthy) with different backdrops and seating areas. While Utrecht is a 2 storey location with seating downstairs, the low ceiling and muti-rooms creates a cosy area. Both are also close to the waterfront.
With a varied menu of sweet, savoury, alcohol and juices, you are spoilt with choice. The combi menus also offer deals for boozy brunches. The menu includes; Croques, all types of eggs, fried chicken, sandwiches and french toast (my mum couldn’t stop talking about this one and still stands by it being her favourite breakfast).
Other than brunch, you can also find Teds high tea. Although sadly it’s not a British afternoon tea, it consists of sandwiches, bruschettas and banana pancakes so I am not complaining!
Teds Reflection:
Price: $$$
Location: Although Teds (Haarlem and Utrecht) are not in Amsterdam, they offer unique locations in towns I would definitely recommend visiting if you have the time
Food: ★★★★☆
Insta Worthy: ♥♥♥♡♡
Photo: Fruity French Toast, Teds Original French Toast (topped with bacon and banana with a side of scrambled egg) and of course 2 glasses of wine, as why not?
Kazerne88
Under the motto of “for locals, by locals” Kazerne88 is a breakfast and caffeine club, serving breakfast all day every day and brunch Thursday to Sunday. With locally sourced beans, they are as happy to serve their coffee as you are to drink it. This hidden gem used to be an old firehouse, and has been converted into a modern and urban lunch and brunch destination.
My thoughts:
It was quite by luck I stumbled across this amazing brunch place. While exploring De Pijp with friends and wondering where to go for Breakfast that avoids the queues, this was found through the power of marketing. A poster stand in the middle of the market pointed us in the direction. It is safe to say that without this we would have never spotted Kazerne 88 behind the Albert Cuyp Market area.
Unlike many other dining places, it was fairly quiet here, which was a nice change to being able to have a choice of seats in such a prime location. The prices are also very fair for the location in the heart of De Pijp.
With urban and modern decor, the interior is bright with plenty of tropical plants creating a botanical and clean atmospher.
The menu consists of vegan and non-vegan dishes, with smoothie bowls, pancakes and toasts. I had the Raspberry & Cinnamon Pancake Stack, the best pancakes in Amsterdam (so far!). The food was fresh and beautifully decroated with edible flowers.
Out of all of these brunch destinations I would love to go back to try more of their menu. Kazerne88 could also be a great spot for doing work.
Kazerne88 Reflection:
Price: $$$
Location: Although it may be hard to spot, Kazerne 88 is the perfect location for a brunch mid exploring the Albert Cuyp Market
Food: ★★★★★
Insta Worthy: ♥♥♥♥♥
Photo: Raspberry & Cinnamon Pancake Stack, New York City Breakfast Stack with an egg sunny side up and Açaí Bowl.
All in all, all of these brunch spots are certainly worthy, so happy brunching!
P.S. Let me know your thoughts in the comments or if you have any recommendations!