“Opeens hadden we een kroeg.” That’s what the eleven friends who now own the Rijnbar in Amsterdam thought. Here at the Rijnbar, we’re standing at a spot steeped in history. More than a hundred years ago, this building became a hub for intellectuals in the 1930s. During World War II, the Rijnbar even served as the headquarters for the resistance group De Jong.
After the war, the Rijnbar transitioned into more of a neighborhood café. It is located on the corner of the Rijnstraat and the Amstelkade. This café is an authentic Amsterdam experience for everyone. The Rijnbar is part of Berlage’s Plan Zuid from 1920. Architect Gerrit Jan Rutgers built the complex in 1922.
Notice the art-deco style. It’s not just the building. The interior of the Rijnbar also reflects this. The original bar, the stained-glass windows, the tiled walls in the ladies’ room, and the floor in the tap area all showcase the Amsterdam School style. The café bistro Rijnbar sits on the border of two vibrant neighborhoods. These are the Pijp and the Rivierenbuurt.
In 2022, eleven friends took over the Rijnbar. They renovated it. They respected the original style of the neighborhood from the 1920s. The building has a beautiful curved facade from architect Rutgers. The Rijnbar is now a café bistro bar.
The Rijnbar opens its doors all day long. You can come for a coffee on the terrace. Or you can have lunch. Later, enjoy a drink, dinner, or a party. The menu is simple but high-quality. It features oysters, steak tartare, oeufs durs mayonnaise, and fresh dorade.
Locals love to watch Ajax matches here. The Rijnbar creates a cozy atmosphere. The owners didn’t have hospitality experience. However, they worked in the industry during their student days. The old Rijnbar had its charm. It had become an art-deco museum. It had bear skins and scales.
The renovation maintained the feel of a bruin café. It now has a contemporary twist. The original granite floor was restored. The large bar was designed in the Berlage style. The eleven owners have diverse backgrounds. They can handle purchasing, planning, finances, and social media.
The owners want the Rijnbar to be a lively spot. They want it to be welcoming to everyone. The Rijnbar hosts book presentations, pub quizzes, Ajax games, and birthday parties. In 1935, Herman Middendorp wrote “The Murder in the Rijnbar.” It was a detective novel. He was a friend of the writer Willem Kloos.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Rijnbar welcomes you. Enjoy the history and the gezellig atmosphere.