Haarlem is a pretty cool city, and if you’re like me, you probably can’t explore it without a good cup of coffee. I’ve been to quite a few cafés around town, and honestly, some of them are real hidden gems. While researching spots here, I actually came across a guide about an Eindhoven coffeeshop, and it reminded me how every Dutch city has its own unique café culture.
Haarlem is no different. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or a cozy spot to hang out, this list of the best cafes in Haarlem has got you covered. So grab your favorite mug, and let’s dive into some seriously good coffee.
Key Takeaways
- Haarlem has a surprising number of great specialty coffee spots for its size.
- Many cafes focus on quality beans, often sourced from top roasters in Amsterdam and beyond.
- Beyond coffee, you can find delicious pastries, cakes, and even light meals at these cafes.
- Some cafes offer a unique atmosphere, from cozy and rustic to modern and minimalist.
- Whether you need a quick coffee to go or a place to relax, these cafes cater to different needs.
1. AX Specialty Coffee
AX Specialty Coffee is a small but mighty spot that really focuses on the craft of coffee. It’s the brainchild of someone who spent years as a barista and traveled to Australia, a place known for its coffee scene. They work with local businesses to make sure everything is top-notch and sustainable. For instance, they get their beans from Stooker Specialty Coffee in Amsterdam and their pastries are from Bakkerij MAMA. It’s a cozy place, perfect for anyone who really appreciates a good cup of coffee.
Here’s what makes AX stand out:
- Focus on Quality: They partner with respected local roasters and bakers.
- Sustainable Practices: They aim for quality and sustainability in their operations.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Despite its size, it offers a warm and inviting space.
AX Specialty Coffee is a testament to how passion and attention to detail can create a memorable coffee experience, even in a compact setting. It’s a place where the quality of the brew is clearly the top priority.
2. Coffee Habits Specialty Coffee
Right near Haarlem’s main square, you’ll find Coffee Habits, a spot that feels like a little haven. They’ve teamed up with Manhattan Coffee Roasters, which means the coffee here is seriously good. I’ve had their cappuccino, and honestly, it’s one of the smoothest I’ve tried in the city. It’s not just about the coffee, though. They have two welcoming locations, and both serve up tasty treats like cinnamon buns and vegan banana bread. If you’re not feeling coffee for some reason, they also have nice teas and chai from a local supplier.
- Cappuccino: Silky smooth and a city favorite.
- Pastries: Freshly baked, including vegan options.
- Drinks: Premium teas and chai are also available.
This place really lives up to its name, focusing on making your coffee experience a good habit.
3. Jules Coffee & Concept
Jules Coffee & Concept is a spot that really grew on me. It’s a cozy little place right by the river, and they serve up some seriously good coffee. They use beans from DAK Coffee Roasters out of Amsterdam and A Matter of Concrete from Rotterdam, which are both top-notch roasters. You can tell they care about the quality here.
What’s cool is that they also have a bakery just around the corner, Jules Bakery, where they whip up all sorts of delicious things. I tried a cruffin once – yeah, I didn’t know what that was either – and it was amazing. They also do great croissants and breads.
The baristas here are super friendly and make you feel right at home, which is always a plus. It’s a great place to just sit and enjoy a well-made cup of coffee.
It’s definitely a place worth checking out if you’re looking for a good brew and maybe a tasty treat. You can find them at Turfmarkt 2. It’s a nice addition to the Haarlem coffee scene, and I always make sure to stop by when I’m in town. You can find more about Jules Coffee & Concept and their offerings online.
4. Mica Coffee Bar
Tucked away on a little street not far from the main drag, Mica Coffee Bar is a really sweet spot run by two sisters. They’ve got a real passion for good coffee, and it shows. They’re serving up beans from Blommers Coffee Roasters, a Dutch company that really knows how to get the best out of their sustainably sourced beans. You can taste that quality in every sip.
What’s also great is that everything they serve is vegan. Yep, from the pastries and snacks to the milk they use in the coffees, it’s all plant-based. So, if you’re looking for a delicious coffee and a tasty treat without any animal products, this is definitely the place to check out. The sisters are super friendly too, always happy to chat about their coffee or anything else.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Specialty coffee from Blommers Coffee Roasters
- All vegan pastries and snacks
- Friendly service from the owner-sisters
- Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
Mica is a great example of a small business putting a lot of care into what they do. It’s not just about serving coffee; it’s about creating a welcoming space and offering quality, ethical choices.
5. Maeva Cafe
Tucked away from the usual tourist paths, Maeva Cafe offers a little slice of Tahitian charm right here in Haarlem. It’s the kind of place you find when you’re really looking for it, and honestly, that’s part of its appeal. You won’t stumble upon it by accident; everyone here seems to know exactly where they’re going.
What really stands out is the owner’s dedication to keeping the coffee selection exciting. They feature staples from well-known roasters like Friedhats from Amsterdam and Single Estate Coffee Roasters from The Hague, but they also consistently bring in something new and interesting to try. It’s a great way to discover different specialty coffee profiles.
Beyond the excellent coffee, the atmosphere is super cozy. There’s a vinyl record player spinning tunes that just seem to fit the mood perfectly, whatever time of day it is. It makes the whole experience feel really personal and relaxed.
The vibe here is genuinely welcoming, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a quality cup without the usual city buzz.
If you’re looking for a coffee spot that feels a bit more like a local secret, Maeva Cafe is definitely worth seeking out. They’ve got a great mix of familiar favorites and exciting new finds, all served up in a wonderfully chill environment.
6. Native Haarlem
Tucked away on Breestraat in the charming Vijfhoek neighborhood, Native Haarlem is a real gem. It’s a cozy spot that really knows its coffee, sourcing beans from Amsterdam’s White Label Coffee Roasters. This means you’re in for a well-balanced, flavorful cup, whether you’re after a quick espresso or a more leisurely pour-over. The vibe inside is pretty rustic, with lots of green plants adding a fresh touch.
They also have a nice selection of pastries that pair perfectly with their coffee. If you’re looking to escape the usual city buzz for a bit, Native Haarlem is the place to go. And when the weather’s nice, their terrace is honestly one of the best spots in town to just chill.
- Coffee Sourcing: White Label Coffee Roasters (Amsterdam)
- Atmosphere: Cozy, rustic with greenery
- Specialty: Espresso, pour-over, pastries
This cafe is a great escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a relaxed environment and quality brews.
7. Mogador Cafe
Mogador Cafe has been a fixture in Haarlem for over a decade, and it’s easy to see why it’s a local favorite. Stepping inside feels like entering a cozy living room, a really comfortable spot to just hang out. They serve up specialty coffee, with beans sourced from Common Greens, a roaster based right in Amsterdam. It’s the kind of place where you can really appreciate a good cup of coffee.
Beyond the brews, Mogador offers a nice selection of fresh juices and breakfast items. But honestly, the cakes are where it’s at. They’ve got options for everyone, including vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free choices. Seriously, don’t leave without trying one of their cinnamon buns; they’re pretty legendary.
Mogador is located on the Botermarkt, making it a convenient stop if you’re exploring the city center. The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the staff are friendly, adding to the overall relaxed vibe. It’s a great spot to recharge.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Specialty Coffee: Sourced from Common Greens.
- Food Options: Fresh juices, breakfast dishes, and a variety of cakes.
- Dietary Choices: Vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free cakes available.
- Must-Try: Their famous cinnamon buns.
If you’re looking for a place that feels like home but serves seriously good coffee and treats, Mogador Cafe is definitely worth a visit. It’s a spot that truly captures the charm of Haarlem, much like the unique offerings you might find at NOMAD restaurant in Marrakech.
8. Kohi Specialty Coffee Bar
Kohi Specialty Coffee Bar might be a little off the beaten path, but it’s definitely worth seeking out. Tucked away in the historic De Greiner building, this spot is a cool blend of community vibes and serious coffee quality. Founded by Anne, a certified barista, Kohi uses organic beans from Gosling Coffee and local milk. The name itself, ‘Kohi,’ means coffee in Japanese, a nod to the historical coffee connections between Japan and the Netherlands. They’re also big on sustainability, even turning surplus ingredients into tasty treats.
What they offer:
- Organic coffee from Gosling Coffee
- Local milk from Haarlem’s meadows
- Repurposed surplus produce into snacks
- A focus on sustainability
Kohi is a place where you can really feel the passion for coffee, from the sourcing of the beans to the final cup. It’s a small but mighty spot that brings people together.
9. La Maru
La Maru is a spot that really gets the whole coffee and bread thing right. Located smack dab in the city center, it’s a convenient stop for a quality brew and a bite. They’re using beans from Five Ways Coffee Roasters out of Amsterdam, which is a solid choice. Whether you’re after a classic espresso drink or something a bit more involved like a pour-over, they seem to have it covered. The real star here, though, might just be their freshly baked artisan bread. Seriously, it’s good enough to buy a whole loaf to take home. They also have a decent selection of pastries if bread isn’t your main focus. It’s a nice place to hang out, and they even have a large table set up for people who want to get some work done, though the wifi isn’t the fastest. Still, for lighter tasks or just enjoying a coffee, it works. It’s a great addition to the Haarlem coffee scene, and definitely worth checking out if you’re exploring the city center. You can find more great spots like this in a curated guide to Europe’s best coffee destinations.
La Maru focuses on the simple, yet perfect, combination of good coffee and excellent bread, making it a go-to for many.
They’ve got a good setup for a quick stop or a longer stay. The coffee is good, the bread is better, and the atmosphere is generally pretty chill. It’s a place that doesn’t try too hard but succeeds in delivering a really satisfying experience for anyone looking for a quality coffee and a tasty treat.
10. Maeva Coffee
Maeva Coffee is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away in a part of Haarlem that locals tend to know best. It’s not on the main tourist drag, which is part of its charm. You really have to intend to go there to find it, and that makes it feel special.
What I really like about Maeva is how they keep things interesting. Sure, they have reliable roasters like Friedhats from Amsterdam and Single Estate Coffee Roasters from The Hague, but they also often have something new and exciting to try. It’s a good place to discover a new favorite bean.
The atmosphere is really cozy, helped along by a record player spinning tunes that just fit the mood. It’s the kind of place where you can just settle in for a while.
The vibe here is definitely more local, less hustle and bustle. It feels like a genuine neighborhood spot where people come to relax and enjoy good coffee.
So, What’s the Verdict?
Haarlem really does have some fantastic spots for a good cup of coffee. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix on the go or a cozy place to sit and relax for a while, this city has you covered. We’ve looked at a bunch of great cafes, each with its own vibe and tasty drinks. It’s been fun exploring them, and honestly, it makes me want to go back and try them all again. So next time you’re in Haarlem, grab one of these cafes and enjoy a great coffee experience. Let us know if you found a new favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Haarlem a great city for coffee lovers?
Haarlem might be a smaller city, but it’s packed with awesome coffee shops! You can find lots of places that really care about making good coffee, using beans from great roasters and making each cup with skill. It’s the perfect spot to explore with a tasty coffee in hand.
Are there many coffee shops in Haarlem?
Yes, for its size, Haarlem has a surprising number of specialty coffee places. You can easily hop from one cool cafe to another, discovering new favorites along the way.
What kind of coffee can I expect at these cafes?
These cafes focus on ‘specialty coffee,’ which means they use high-quality beans and prepare them with a lot of care. You’ll find everything from smooth espressos and creamy cappuccinos to carefully brewed pour-overs. Many also work with top coffee roasters from places like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
Do these cafes offer anything besides coffee?
Absolutely! Most of these coffee spots also serve yummy treats like pastries, cakes, and sometimes even breakfast or lunch items. Some offer fresh juices or premium teas if you’re not in the mood for coffee.
Are there vegan or special diet options available?
Many cafes are mindful of different dietary needs. You can often find vegan pastries, vegan milk options for your coffee, and sometimes even gluten-free or sugar-free treats. It’s always a good idea to ask the staff if you have specific requirements.
Can I find these cafes easily?
Most of these cafes are located in or near the city center, making them easy to find as you explore Haarlem. Some might be a little tucked away, but they’re usually worth the search for their unique atmosphere and great coffee.
