Utrecht - anyone been recently?

Hey Bierman, I've posted on this place before, but I can't say enough about the esthetic appeal to Cafe' Olivier in Utrecht. The beer selection isn't to the level of a great beer bar, (although decent enough for a couple & the food is good). It is the beautiful interior of this place that makes it worth a visit. The bar is located in a former church that they have left mostly intact. Very easy to find, just a couple blocks from the train station.

Also, if you have time, I would highly recommend taking the short train ride to Bodegraven & visit De Molen. Nice bar, great food, well stocked small to-go beer store, & of course outstanding beer.

I would like to hear what you think of Utrecht. I only had a short time between train rides when I visited Olivier, so I didn't see much of the city. I will be passing through the Netherlands in Dec for one night & would like to venture out somewhere. Amsterdam is great, but I've stayed there a few times & would like to see a different city & beer bars.

Have a great time, trips to NL always make for great beer adventures. Cheers

 

Oh that's right, now I remember reading you were headed to Borefts,(I'm definitely jealous).

Both Amsterdam & Antwerp are great beer cities. Make an effort to visit the Kulminator when in Antwerp, it's truly a one of a kind beer experience, (that unfortunately won't be around or be the same once the current owners decide to call it quits).

Delft is another very nice town to visit. It's much smaller than the other cities, but had 2-3 very good beer bars.

 

I don't know the city as well as I should. But a few tips here.

Cafe Olivier is nice place to visit. The beer list is not impressive but the location is beautiful.
And it is very close to the train station, so easy to find.

Kafé België is cafe that will remind you of a true belgian style cafe. A decent regular list with some interesting local specials. Also located in city center, so only a small walk from Cafe Olivier. And the walk through this beautiful old city is very enjoyable.

Around the corner from Kafe Belgie is De Drie Dorstige Herten. A cosy small cafe with a decent beer menu. Some local and some other good beers. Knowledgeable and friendly staff.

As there are more and more craft brewers in Holland and also in and around Utrecht you will be able to find some local brews. The best known ones are Maximus, Vandestreek and Oproer. Oproer is a brewer that came from a merger of Rooie Dop and RUIG bier.
I have also heard good things of De Kromme Haring but have yet to taste their beers.

Oproer also has a tasting room at their brewery. It is an industrial chiq location a little bit outside of city center.

If you have any more questions, let me know.

 

Café de Rat probably has the best selection and is a great bar

 

Hi Bierman9,

Hit me up via PM. I live in Utrecht and would be more than willing to give you a few tips/pointers or (if possible) show you around.

Cheers,
Pim