Dutch wine bars: five new spots on the map

The Dutch wine bar has long since evolved beyond a simple place for a good glass of red or white. New spots combine distinctive wines with distinctive interiors, surprising kitchens and distinctive concepts. From ice and natural wine in Amsterdam to a new generation of winemakers and sommeliers: MASTERS presents five recent openings.

1. Wijn Boer – Zwolle

A new generation is taking the helm at Wijn Boer. Isabelle Boer runs the wine bar, where distinctive wines by the glass are paired with small dishes made from Dutch produce, prepared by the team at Brass Boer Thuis. An accessible wine bar with the recognizable culinary signature of the Boer hospitality family.

2. De Boule De Boule – Amsterdam

Wine with ice sounds unusual, but in cities like London and Paris the combination has been gaining ground for some time. Kirsi Rautiainen brought the concept to Amsterdam and opened De Boule De Boule in May at Waterlooplein. Artisanal ice cream and sorbets are served alongside natural wines and bubbles. During the day, coffee and pastries take centre stage, later giving way to wine, music and regular dj sets.

3. Bar Goût – Apeldoorn

It is not only the wine list that catches the eye here. Bar Goût, run by Bram Lesterhuis and Suzan van Asselt, features a distinctive interior with elegant classical details, 70s influences and a touch of glam rock. The wine selection ranges across the Old and New World. For more substantial dishes, the bar collaborates with neighbouring restaurant Mel & Norel.

4. De Pimpelmees – Amsterdam

Three former colleagues from Spaghetteria opened De Pimpelmees in the Staatsliedenbuurt at the end of February. Not a formal wine bar, but a contemporary wine café for the neighbourhood, with good wines, small dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. The owners know the area well: two of them live there themselves.

5. Buitenhuis – Leusden

Restaurant Buitenhuis added a temporary wine bar to its existing concept this summer. Sommelier Demi and chef-owner Bart open the doors on Fridays and Saturdays for wines by the glass and a compact menu featuring tartare, scallop with belly pork, charcuterie and cheese. A seasonal pop-up that shows wine bars are gaining ground beyond the major cities.