As many people begin to mourn the summer that has just ended, those of us who are personality type: autumn celebrate the arrival of cooler air and the wonderful changing of the leaves. Thoughts of Cocktail Spots, pumpkin spice lattes, and the annual rewatch of Gilmore Girls fill our minds as we stroll through the cobblestone streets of Haarlem, clad in boots and raincoats.
Haarlem itself embodies the essence of autumn; if it were a season, it would undoubtedly be fall. With its countless charming cafes, distinctive boutiques, and outstanding restaurants renowned for their exquisite seasonal dishes, our lovely city is also undergoing a seasonal transformation.
So, let’s take a wander and see what’s on the menu for us all this fall in five of my favorite places in Haarlem to grab an autumnal aperitif!
Nestled in the heart of Haarlem Centrum at Riviervismarkt 5, Bar Number 5 is a cozy and vibrant gem, renowned for its diverse cocktail selection, lively atmosphere, and talented bartenders who can craft any drink your palate desires.
As someone who embraces autumn in all its flavors, I simply couldn’t pass up the Butterscotch Apple Pie Martini. This cocktail is the perfect embodiment of fall, served with a cinnamon stick for that extra seasonal touch. One sip feels like a warm embrace—expertly balancing the sweetness of butterscotch with the spice of cinnamon. Just when you think it can’t get better, a burst of fruity apple sneaks in—so quintessentially Dutch!
The aroma is like that of a candle I'd instantly add-to-cart, and its smooth drinkability makes it the ideal prelude to a Friday night out, setting the tone for an evening of exploring the city's charms.
Bar Number 5 is open from Wednesday to Sunday, ready to satisfy your cocktail cravings.
Not too far of a tipsy stumble from our starting point, The Governor is located at Oude Groenmarkt 18-20 and is the bar of the Ambassador City Centre Hotel.
Shades of teal blue with a beautiful bar in the center of the room greet you as you take shelter from another blustery October evening. Offering a welcoming smile from Jan, a wide selection of drinks, bites and more, the Governor is a firm favorite of mine for so many reasons. At this time of year however, the highlight for me is their perfectly crafted Salted Caramel Espresso Martini. Infused with Bailey’s Salted Caramel and topped with decadent chocolate shavings and toffee, it's the ultimate post-workday indulgence. Take a seat on one of their plush barstools, relax, and enjoy some prime people-watching. But be warned: once the irresistible aromas from the open kitchen drift your way, your cocktail hour may easily turn into a comforting dinner...
You can enjoy a caffeinated cocktail at The Governor any day of the week.
Very fittingly self-described as “de huiskamer van Haarlem” (that’s “the living room of Haarlem” for us less capable at Dutch), Bar Boeff can be found at Small Houtstraat 58.
This gezellig spot has earned its reputation for its upscale American dive-bar vibe and impressive selection of craft beers, board games, and exceptional team. If you haven’t already met Randy, you’re missing out—he's something of a modern-day wizard when it comes to matching you with the perfect drink. I once tried to put him to the test, asking for a beer to complement my outfit, and of course, he nailed it. But what you might not know is that Bar Boeff also boasts an ever-changing, inventive cocktail menu that’s the source of many a memorable (and blurry) night. Whether you're craving a classic or something a bit offbeat, there’s always something exciting to try.
On my most recent visit, I had the pleasure of being introduced to the “Hazelrum Rita,” a cocktail that tastes like dark rum huddling under an umbrella sheltering from the Dutch rain with red wine. Add a splash of lime and the result is a warming, unexpected blend that leaves you craving more—and, bonus points are given as it matched my autumnal nails perfectly!
Dog-friendly and full of charm, Bar Boeff is the perfect spot to unwind from Wednesday to Saturday.
On a rainy evening, Bar Wigbolt, tucked away in the heart of Haarlem at Smedestraat 41, offers the perfect refuge with its cozy lighting and intimate atmosphere. Stepping inside, you instantly forget about whatever the Dutch weather threw at you on your journey. Known for its casual and relaxed vibe, it's always a popular spot among locals. Here, the cocktail menu has something to suit all tastes, and their extensive G&T selection is sure to please gin lovers.
How could I not opt for the Haarlem Mule, a Dutch take on the Kyiv Mule, when it is infused with jenever and the traditional ginger beer, making it a refreshingly seasonal choice. Well-known as a great date night spot, this charming bar also hosts fantastic cocktail workshops for groups of one to eight—an ideal way to spend a crisp autumn evening with friends!
Bar Wigbolt is open Wednesday to Sunday for whatever concoction you crave.
On Zijlstraat 21 you can find a taste of New Orleans culture in our very own city. With a mouth-watering menu that brings a taste of the Bayou to our doorstep, this creative location has a lot to offer. Along with weekly live music, gloriously indulgent soul food and of course, lobster rolls, the most wonderful and unique beverages also live here.
For the perfect remedy on a gloomy day, try the Flaming Hurricane—an irresistible rum-based cocktail that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour. Feeling adventurous? Embrace the American vibe with a Pickleback, the ideal companion while waiting for your fried pickles. It’s a bold shot, and somehow, I’m both amazed and a little surprised by how much I love it.
The Louisiana Lobster Shack is open Fridays through Sundays, offering a chance to escape to the American South without leaving the city.
We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the vibrant life of Haarlem. For more stories, tips, and local insights, keep exploring HaarlemToday. Don’t forget to share your favorite articles with friends and join the conversation on our social media channels. Until next time, keep discovering the unique flavors and experiences that make our city special.
