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Tales & Spirits
★ 4.0(1 review)Restaurant
intimatequirkylively
About the Vibe
Tucked away in a narrow Jordaan alley, Tales & Spirits is a multi-level cocktail bar that feels like stepping into a friend's eclectic antique-filled living room. The drinks list is playful and creative—think "Pear Necessities" with Irish whiskey and pear liqueur—while the food menu runs late for those post-drink bites. It's intimate and often packed, so arrive early or be prepared to wait, but the warm, quirky vibe and top-tier bartenders make it worth the squeeze.
Known For
- •creative cocktail menu
- •antique-filled interior
- •late-night food
- •multi-story layout
Best For
cocktail enthusiastsdate nightsmall group drinks
1 review
City InsidersEditorialMarch 30, 2026
Quirky Cocktail Den with Creative Drinks
Tales & Spirits is one of Amsterdam's most characterful cocktail bars, hidden in a tiny Lijnbaanssteeg passage in the Jordaan. The space is a delight—packed with antiques, vintage curios, and warm lighting that makes it feel like a secret den. The cocktail menu is where the real magic happens: it's witty, inventive, and full of surprising flavor combinations like the Jungle Book-inspired "Pear Necessities." The bartenders are skilled and personable, happy to guide you through the extensive list or craft something off-menu.
The food menu is a pleasant surprise, serving substantial dishes well into the night—perfect for balancing out those strong cocktails. It's a popular spot, so expect it to get crowded, especially on weekends. The multi-level layout means you might find a cozy nook upstairs if the main bar is packed. While it can feel a bit cramped and the prices are on the higher side, the quality of the drinks and the unique atmosphere make Tales & Spirits a standout in Amsterdam's already impressive cocktail scene.