Café de Duivel

Rembrandtplein, Amsterdam –

Although Café de Duivel is located in a square once known as Devil’s Corner – which was also the site of witch burnings – the owner of this classic hip-hop bar claims the bar’s name is simply a coincidence.

Once inside, however, it’s clear that the décor carries on the devilish theme with its red and black walls, bar, lounge seats, and lighting, all complemented by the works of local street and graffiti artists that give the place a touch of Amsterdam’s subculture.

Café de Duivel has become a hotspot for the city’s hip-hop culture, due in no small part to the owner’s reputation as a passionate and bona fide hip-hop guru, which has certainly helped him create this party setting for beat-loving souls.

With a maximum capacity of only a hundred, the bar can fill up quickly, but the fluid tunes of authentic and underground hip-hop – spun by local cream-of-the-crop DJs – keep things moving and grooving despite the tight space.

The sociable, mellow vibe, smooth tracks, and overall character of the bar and its denizens combine to give the impression that maybe the devil ain’t all that bad.