Discover the Hidden Gem of Amsterdam: De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar

When it comes to experiencing a taste of Dutch culture in the heart of London, De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar is the place to be. Located in the bustling and historic neighborhood of Soho, this iconic establishment has been serving up traditional Dutch food, drinks, and hospitality for over 125 years. Step inside and you’ll instantly be transported to the lively streets of Amsterdam, with its charming decor and friendly atmosphere. But De Hems is more than just a pub – it holds a rich history and has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will delve into the story behind De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar and discover why it continues to be a must-visit spot in London’s vibrant nightlife scene.

The History of De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar

De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar has a rich history dating back to the early 1890s. Originally known as the Swiss Hotel, it was a popular gathering spot for sailors and dockworkers in the bustling port city of London. However, during World War II, many of these patrons were interned and deported, leaving the Swiss Hotel largely abandoned.

In 1948, Henk de Vries took over the establishment and renamed it “De Hems” in honor of his home country, the Netherlands. As an immigrant himself, de Vries wanted to create a welcoming place for other Dutch immigrants to gather and feel at home.

Over the years, De Hems became a focal point for the Dutch community in London, serving traditional Dutch food and drinks and hosting cultural events. It also attracted a wider clientele with its unique atmosphere and authentic offerings.

Despite changing ownership multiple times throughout its history, De Hems has remained true to its roots as a beloved Dutch cafe bar in London. Today, it continues to be a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a taste of Dutch culture in the heart of Soho.

The Concept of De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar

De Hems is not your typical cafe or bar. Instead, it is a unique blend of both worlds – offering traditional Dutch cuisine alongside an extensive selection of beers and spirits. The concept behind De Hems was to create a space where people can socialize over good food and drinks without feeling rushed or pressured.

The interior design of De Hems reflects this concept with its warm wooden decor, cozy seating areas, and dim lighting that encourages customers to relax and stay awhile. The bar itself is well-stocked with various beers from different regions of the Netherlands as well as specialty liqueurs like Advocaat (Dutch eggnog). They also offer a variety of Dutch snacks and dishes, such as bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) and pannenkoeken (thin Dutch pancakes).

In addition to the food and drinks, De Hems also hosts events that celebrate Dutch culture, such as live music performances, pub quizzes, and special holiday celebrations like King’s Day. This adds to the overall experience of De Hems, creating a sense of community and camaraderie among patrons.

The Experience at De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar

Walking into De Hems is like stepping into a traditional Dutch pub in Amsterdam. From the warm and inviting atmosphere to the friendly staff dressed in traditional Dutch attire, every aspect of this cafe bar is designed to transport customers to the Netherlands.

One of the highlights of the experience at De Hems is their extensive drink menu. With over 100 different types of beer on offer, including popular Belgian Trappist beers and rare Dutch brews, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The staff are also knowledgeable about their selection and can make recommendations based on personal tastes.

The food menu showcases classic Dutch dishes as well as some modern twists on traditional favorites. All dishes are made using fresh ingredients and are cooked to perfection. Customers rave about the bitterballen – a must-try snack when visiting De Hems.

The overall vibe at De Hems is laid-back but lively, with groups of friends chatting over drinks or solo customers enjoying a meal while watching sports on TV. It’s an ideal spot for any occasion – whether it’s a casual catch-up or a celebration with friends.

De Hems’ Contribution to the Community

As mentioned before, De Hems has always been more than just a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat. It has been an integral part of London’s Dutch community for over 70 years.

Aside from hosting cultural events, De Hems also supports local Dutch artists and musicians by showcasing their work and offering a stage for their performances. They have also been known to collaborate with other businesses in the area to promote Dutch culture and cuisine, such as hosting a joint “beer and cheese” tasting event with a nearby cheese shop.

Moreover, De Hems is committed to sustainability and being environmentally responsible. They source their ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible, and all of their packaging is compostable or biodegradable. They also make an effort to recycle and reduce waste behind the scenes.

In addition to its contributions within the local community, De Hems has also received recognition from various organizations. It has been named one of London’s best pubs by publications such as The Guardian and TimeOut London.

The Future of De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar

As it enters its eighth decade in business, De Hems remains dedicated to keeping the traditions of Dutch culture alive in the bustling city of London. With a loyal customer base and continued interest in international cuisines, there is no doubt that De Hems will remain a staple in the London food and drink scene for many years to come.

Looking ahead, De Hems plans to continue evolving by offering new menu items featuring traditional Dutch street

History of De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar

De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar holds a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. It was originally founded as a merchant’s home in the heart of Chinatown, London, and was known as ‘The Vine’. In the 19th century, it was transformed into a pub and gained popularity among the Dutch sailors who docked nearby. However, it wasn’t until 1890 when a Dutchman named Herman Pieter de Hem took over the establishment and renamed it to what we know today as De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar.

Under de Hem’s ownership, the bar flourished and became a hub for the growing Dutch community in London. During this time, many changes were made to the interior of De Hems, including the addition of traditional Holland-style tile decoration and other cultural elements. It became a popular spot for sailors, artists, writers, and even members of royalty who were fascinated by the unique Dutch atmosphere.

Throughout the years, De Hems witnessed several owners and renovations but managed to maintain its authentic charm. Today, it is considered one of London’s oldest Dutch bars and continues to honor its heritage by serving traditional Dutch drinks and food.

The Unique Atmosphere of De Hems

One step inside De Hems is like taking a journey to Amsterdam without ever leaving London. The bar’s decor is a mix of traditional Dutch elements such as Delftware tiles, wooden clogs, windmill figurines with modern touches like neon lights and funky artwork on the walls. These contrasting elements create a lively yet cozy atmosphere that appeals to people of all ages.

The bar is divided into two sections – downstairs is typically bustling with chatty locals catching up over drinks while upstairs offers more intimate seating arrangement perfect for groups or couples looking for a quieter setting. Both areas are always buzzing with energy and create a warm and welcoming ambiance for visitors.

Furthermore, the bar staff at De Hems are known for their friendliness and knowledge of Dutch culture. They are always eager to share stories about the bar’s history and recommend traditional drinks and dishes to try.

The Drinks Menu at De Hems

De Hems is renowned for its extensive selection of Dutch beers, many of which are brewed by renowned Dutch breweries. These include favorites such as Heineken, Amstel, Grolsch, and many more. In addition to these popular choices, the bar also offers a range of lesser-known but equally delicious beers that represent different regions of the Netherlands.

For those who are not beer lovers, De Hems also serves an array of traditional Dutch cocktails and spirits like Genever – a juniper-flavored liquor that is considered to be the predecessor of gin. Pair your drink with some Bitterballen (deep-fried beef croquettes) or other bar snacks for an authentic Dutch experience.

The Food Menu at De Hems

De Hems not only offers a great selection of drinks but also boasts a mouthwatering food menu that will satisfy any craving. The menu is primarily focused on traditional Dutch cuisine with dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), poffertjes (small fluffy pancakes), and kroketten (croquettes). All dishes are made using fresh ingredients and authentically prepared by skilled chefs.

In addition to the main menu, De Hems also serves a selection of seasonal specials that highlight different aspects of Dutch cuisine. These include dishes such as hachee (slow-cooked beef stew) in the winter months and salads with fresh produce from Holland’s tulip fields in the summer.

Events and Entertainment at De Hems

De Hems takes pride in hosting events that celebrate Dutch culture and bring people together. Throughout the year, the bar organizes various events such as live music performances, beer tastings, and cultural celebrations like King’s Day – a national holiday in the Netherlands.

The bar also screens important sports events on their TVs, making it a go-to spot for watching football and other sports with friends. The friendly atmosphere at De Hems makes it an ideal place to socialize and meet new people while enjoying good food and drink.

Location and Accessibility

De Hems is located in the bustling area of Chinatown, just a short walk from Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. It is easily accessible by public transportation with several bus stops and tube stations nearby.

As De Hems is a popular spot, it can sometimes get crowded especially on weekends. However, the staff manages the flow of customers effectively, ensuring everyone has a pleasant experience.

De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar is not just another pub in London but a unique destination that offers an authentic Dutch experience. With its rich history, warm atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and regular events – it’s no wonder why this bar has been thriving for over 100 years. So if you’re looking for a

1. What type of cuisine does De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar serve?
De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar serves traditional Dutch cuisine, including dishes such as bitterballen, kroketten, and stroopwafels.

2. Can I make a reservation at De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar?
Yes, reservations can be made through our website or by calling our restaurant directly. We highly recommend making a reservation, especially during peak hours.

3. Is De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar suitable for large groups or events?
Yes, our restaurant is able to accommodate large groups and events. Please contact us in advance for more information and to make arrangements.

4. Does De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar have a dress code?
We do not have a strict dress code, however we ask that diners avoid wearing overly casual attire such as flip-flops or workout clothes. We strive for a casual but stylish atmosphere.

5. Are children welcome at De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar?
Yes, families with children are welcome at our restaurant. We have a kids menu available and can also accommodate special dietary restrictions or allergies.

6. Does De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar have any vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, we offer several vegetarian dishes on our menu and can also accommodate vegan options upon request. Please inform your server of any dietary restrictions when ordering.

In conclusion, De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar is a well-known and beloved establishment that has been serving delicious food and drinks for over 300 years. It has a rich history and cultural significance as one of the oldest Dutch pubs in London. Through its traditional menu and warm atmosphere, De Hems successfully brings a piece of Dutch culture to the heart of England.

Throughout this discussion, we have explored the origins of De Hems, its unique interior design and architecture, as well as its famous dishes and drinks. We have also touched upon the pub’s role in Dutch naval history and its transformation into a popular hangout spot for locals, tourists, and expats alike. Additionally, we have highlighted how De Hems has adapted to changing times while still maintaining its authentic charm.

One key takeaway from our exploration is the importance of preserving cultural landmarks like De Hems. As our world becomes increasingly globalized, it is crucial to hold onto places that provide a sense of heritage and tradition. With its centuries-old legacy, De Hems serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between different cultures and their contributions to each other.

Furthermore, De Hems serves as more than just a pub but also as a cultural hub that brings people together over good food and drinks. Its welcoming atmosphere