Bars in Utrecht

Established in 1984 and one of the most beloved bars in Utrecht. A canal-side institution known for an extraordinary selection of around 200 international and local craft beers, constantly changing and including IPAs, lagers, stouts, and Belgian beers. Service is exceptional with knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide detailed recommendations. Board games available. Hot homemade meals throughout the day.

The historic castle bar and brewery on the Oudegracht, with the brewery in the medieval cellar below. The combination of castle architecture, own-brewed beers, canal views, and a dramatic interior makes Oudaen one of the most distinctive bar experiences in the Netherlands.

Utrecht’s most celebrated craft brewery with a bar on the Oudegracht. Famous for the non-alcoholic Playground IPA among other excellent brews. Shared dining food pairs well with the beer. Regular quizzes and comedy nights make it a genuine community hub. Knowledgeable staff make this the go-to craft ale destination for a younger Utrecht crowd.

An outstanding collection of beers on tap and in bottles in a cool vaulted bar and restaurant space with a canal-side terrace. A reliable and excellent craft beer destination with a consistently praised selection and good food. Popular with both locals and expats.

A cosy pub and cafe along the Oudegracht offering a warm atmosphere and a good selection of beers for a relaxed drink or light meal. One of the more low-key options on the Oudegracht strip, ideal for those who want atmosphere without the higher prices of the more prominent venues.

One of Utrecht’s most extraordinary bar spaces, housed in a spectacular former church with high vaulted ceilings hidden in the heart of the city. An extensive Belgian beer selection alongside Dutch and international beers. Hearty pub food including Flemish beef stew and mussels. Discovering it for the first time is one of Utrecht’s great bar experiences. Live music evenings on a podium.

A sustainable brewery and vegan restaurant offering organic craft beers in a vibrant communal urban setting. One of the most progressive brewing operations in the Netherlands, combining excellent craft beer with a genuine commitment to sustainability and plant-based food. Regular events and a strong community atmosphere.

A historic Utrecht brewery producing 100 percent organic beers, known for its popular waterside tasting room. De Leckere has been producing organic beers in Utrecht for decades and the tasting room is a relaxed and enjoyable place to work through the range.

A highly regarded craft beer bar consistently recommended by Utrecht’s beer community for its excellent and rotating selection of Dutch and international craft beers. Knowledgeable staff who are happy to guide you through often unfamiliar offerings.

Utrecht’s most celebrated cocktail bar, offering creative cocktails and an extensive selection of Japanese whiskies in a vibrant atmosphere. Consistently listed as one of the finest cocktail bars in the Netherlands with expertly crafted drinks. The Japanese whisky collection sets it apart from any other cocktail bar in the city.

A cocktail and whisky bar where masterful mixology meets charming ambiance. A serious spirits destination that draws a loyal following of cocktail and whisky enthusiasts. The charming and intimate setting makes it ideal for a sophisticated evening with knowledgeable bar staff.

A tropical-inspired bar and restaurant with vibrant decor and outdoor seating next to the canal. Known for exquisite cocktails, delightful tapas, and a unique beach-like atmosphere. Signature cocktails, mixers, shots, and alcoholic slushies in a canalside setting.

A cosy and inviting wine bar where wine lovers gather for a thoughtfully curated selection of wines by the glass and bottle. Every glass tells a story and the staff knowledge is consistently praised.

A charming neighbourhood bar offering a warm atmosphere and extensive drink selection. Described as a very cool little neighbourhood bar full of locals, the place to go for a chill bar experience with a genuinely local crowd. Exactly what a good Dutch brown cafe should be.

A friendly small bar with chatty locals, a warm welcome, and good beer. Consistently praised for atmosphere and the quality of the welcome. A classic Dutch brown cafe that expats discover quickly and return to regularly.

A beloved Utrecht institution in a wharf cellar on the Oudegracht combining cafe, bar, and live music venue in a space entirely unique to Utrecht. Live music most evenings across a range of genres. One of the great music bars in the Netherlands.

A vibrant bar offering delightful small plates alongside a good drinks selection. Popular with a mixed crowd of locals, students, and expats for its lively atmosphere and central location.