Amsterdam

Posted on: juni 9, 2023

Cafe Aen ‘t Water Amsterdam

“Aen’t Water” is essentially Dutch slang for “At the water” and it was an appropriate name given the bars location at the canal.

Great Cafe in the Red Light District!

It has a view which is truly stunning! Probably the best view of Amsterdam’s Red Light District. Just next to the water, you can enjoy the beautiful architecture, boats cruising by and people who’re enjoying life. It’s great! Sitting on the terrace of Cafe Aen ‘t Water will make you forget about time.

This place is a bit hidden, it sits on a corner – on the oldest canal in town. You have to walk by to see it. Therefor, it’s usually too crowded.

The terrace is really great. Where one sees boats of all sorts go by and try to go through a lock. I see one having a black flag with skulls and bones. Another tiny one is loaded with too many people: 10 persons cannot move a pinky, so stashed is the boat, which almost sinks!

The view at Cafe Aen ‘t Water is absolutely amazing!

Just steps away from the busy world, it’s very relaxing to sit here under elm trees, being amused by what one sees. Looking up at your other side, you see a frontage stone in the 17th century house depicting a barrel. Cafe Aen ‘t Water doesn’t accept cards, at least not on the terrace, which is a bit disappointing. But hey, who cares when having a great view, enjoying nice drinks and good service. We would definitely recommend you to go to this cafe!

Ambiance: 9/10
View: 10/10
Service: 7/10
Drinks: 8/10
Food: 7/10
Romantic: 6.5/10

What else is good about Cafe Aen ‘t water?

Some people like to sit in the sun, other prefer the shadow. This cafe offers that both! The terrace is located beneath a big tree which offers shade during the hottest hours of the day.

This place is located in the oldest part of Amsterdam: De Wallen. Here’s a picture of what it used to look like, a couple decades ago:

Amsterdam, Red Light District, ’70’s.  J. Stam, Collectie Stadsarchief Amsterdam.

Cafe Aen ‘t Water is a real oasis in Amsterdam and without a doubt one of the best places to enjoy life in this wonderful city! Next to Cafe Aen ‘t Water you can find Cafe De Haven van Texel en de Majoor Bosshardt statue.

Learn more about Amsterdam, Dutch culture and world’s famous Red Light District during our walking tours with locals.