MenuClose

A place worth knowing

Beer Tasting Room In The Wildeman

Restaurants · Bar in AmsterdamUpdated

  • Google rating4.6/5
  • Typical visit1-3 hours
  • EntranceFree
Rustic beer tasting room in Amsterdam with craft beer selection and cozy European bar aesthetic
Opening hours all week
Monday
12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday
12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday
12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Thursday
12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday
12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Saturday
12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Sunday
Closed
Features
  • Incredible beer list
  • Historic building
  • Outdoor seating
The short answer

Why it matters

Quirky bar in a former distillery stocking over 250 bottle & tap beers from throughout Europe.

Travel back in time in a city steeped in history. Let’s take you through narrow lanes across stone-paved streets to a hidden gem in the heart of the bustling Nieuwzijds Amsterdam — In de Wildeman.

Brimming with a distinctive charm within the iconic alley of Kolksteeg, In de Wildeman offers its patrons a variety of brews and a snippet of the city’s rich tapestry ingrained into its time-worn walls.

Situated in the city center at Kolksteeg 3, this former distillery, dating back to 1690, now serves as a haven for beer enthusiasts worldwide.

Fast Facts:

  • The beer menu at De Wildeman is constantly changing, showcasing a rotating selection of unique and rare beers.
  • De Wildeman offers a selection of over 300 unique beers from around the world, including rare beers from August Schell’s Brewing in my home state, Minnesota!
  • The average rating of beers served at De Wildeman is 4.6 out of 5.

From Distillery to the Ultimate Beer Lover’s Paradise

Close-up of frothy craft beer in a branded glass with the logo Bier Proeflokaal In de Wildeman Amsterdam in a traditional tasting room in Amsterdam.
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

Step into this quaint tasting room and prepare for a sensory foxtrot. Be it the scent of freshly poured brews or the sight of an extensive beer menu, In de Wildeman ensures a riveting experience. You’ve got a drool-worthy selection of at least 18 types of craft beer on tap and, hold your breath, a stupefying collection of 384 bottled brews.

Meet the Captain of the Ship

Behind the bar, you will find Simon Fokkema, a charismatic personality whose contagious enthusiasm for his craft is almost as famous as the beers he serves.

Originally beginning here during his university days back in 1995, Simon is now the proud owner. He lovingly refers to his journey as “a student job that’s out of control.” He brings life to this historic establishment daily with his unique hospitality brand.

The Crowd Favorite: Jever Pils van de tap

Amongst the cavalcade of beers available here, one that undeniably captures the limelight is Jever Pils on tap. This Northern German beer, known for its zesty hop and bitter flavor profile, is the most consumed drink.

But that’s not all. If you’re not much of a beer person, fret not. In de Wildeman caters to everyone’s preferences. Opt for their other drinks or even a soothing cup of coffee or tea.

More than Just Beers

While the beers consistently steal the show, don’t miss out on this cozy brewery’s delights. Try various games stocked in the closet or participate in their recurrent specials and events like the German Beer Days and sjoel (Dutch shuffleboard) tournaments.

Context

Story and significance

About

Tucked within Amsterdam’s bustling heart on the Nieuwzijds, In de Wildeman is a former 1690 distillery-turned-beer haven. With 18 craft beers on tap and a vast 384-bottle selection, this cozy tasting room captivates with historical charm.

Beer lovers can savor the crowd-favorite Jever Pils, play games, and attend special events. The enthusiastic owner, Simon Fokkema, enhances the experience with warm hospitality.

Historical significance

The Wildeman’s beer tasting room is historically significant as an expression of Amsterdam’s long brewing and beer-trading heritage, connecting contemporary drinkers with regional styles and brewing histories. It is relevant to those studying culinary and social culture in the city and to heritage tourism focused on food and drink traditions.

Historical context

In de Wildeman occupies a building with centuries of commercial use in Amsterdam’s historic centre, and its evolution into a specialist beer bar mirrors the recent renaissance of craft and heritage brewing culture in the city. The venue’s curated beer lists and tastings are part of a broader trend of renewed interest in local and regional beer traditions.

Cultural context

The beer tasting room at In de Wildeman is an established beer-focused venue in Amsterdam that draws craft beer enthusiasts and tourists eager to sample a wide range of Dutch and Belgian brews. It plays a role as a social gathering spot where tasting and beer culture are foregrounded, reflecting the Netherlands’ lively beer scene.

Architecture

Situated in a traditional canal-front structure, the tasting room balances historic interior volumes and exposed timber or brickwork with shelving and display for bottles and taps. The space emphasises conviviality and display rather than monumental architecture, using the building’s historic character as an atmospheric backdrop for tastings.

Local significance

The beer tasting room at De Wildeman is part of Amsterdam’s strong local beer culture and craft-brewing scene, and it functions as a convivial spot where residents and knowledgeable visitors sample Belgian and Dutch beers. For locals it’s valued as an accessible place to explore traditional and artisanal brews, learn from attentive staff, and socialize in a relaxed setting rather than a tourist-focused tavern. Regulars often treat it as a dependable neighborhood bar with a quality selection, contributing quietly to the city’s reputation for good beer.

Updated Data: Editorial research · Google Places ratings