This historic drinking establishment dating back to 1916, is one of the most distinctive places to capture the spirit of Utrecht and drink like a local. Morgenster’s standout canal-side spot is just outside the city center, making for a more relaxed and leisurely atmosphere to enjoy a drink than the more crowded spots. They specialize in international craft beers, wines by the glass, whisky and fine spirits, including jenever ‘Dutch gin’—juniper-flavored spirit produced in the Netherlands.
Wijnbar Hemel & Aarde
This exquisite wine bar is attached to Hemel & Aarde restaurant in The Nox Hotel, boasting a selection of sommelier-picked wines worldwide. The wine menu changes seasonally, taking in classic regions and smaller undiscovered growers, including a host of speciality Champagnes like Jacquesson. Its stylish interiors are adorned with artworks by artist Eirik Jahnsen, and the inventive bar snacks include local charcuterie, BBQ duck wings, and ponzu-dressed oysters.
Graaf Floris
One of the most popular spots in Utrecht, Graaf Floris is located in the bustling Vismarkt on de Oudegracht. It’s a lively spot to enjoy a Dutch beer, wine, or cocktail, along with their speciality Dutch bar snacks including local cheese croquettes, frikandel sausage, and bitterballen. Graaf Floris is also famous for its warm apple dumpling, a whole apple encased in crispy dough with caramel liquor, which also comes in cocktail form as an apple dumpling spritz.
Café Concours Wine & Foodbar
Located on the opposite side of the road from its fine-dining sister restaurant, Concour, this cosy spot is a great place for an evening drink, snack platters, and small plates. The menu has over 70 still and sparkling wines to discover, selected by sommelier Nils Regien. They also host a calendar of wine tasting masterclasses and live music on Sundays.
LE:EN
This hidden funky warehouse building, just south of the city center, is a cocktail bar and Asian-fusion restaurant in one, with a lively terrace that comes to life in the evenings. LE:EN has an extensive sake and Asian liqueurs menu and a unique cocktail list that includes creations like a miso whiskey sour, yuzu mimosa, and five-spiced port and tonic. The bar hosts weekly DJ nights, live music and drag shows to really get your weekend started.
