Wijnbar Paulus

After being open for over a decade, one can add Wijnbar Paulus to the list of wine classics of Amsterdam. Though situated centrally in the fashionable De Pijp neighbourhood, attention is often given to the more trendy natural winebar GlouGlou just around the corner – undeservedly. Paulus has the look and feel of a cosy living room with a retro seventies interior. It is owned by Paul Kickert, who was born into wine as part of the Kwast family, one of the Netherlands’ most well-known wine importers. But it’s not the Kwast wines that you’ll find at Paulus.

Though not hugely extensive, Paul’s wine list covers most of the well known regions with some good references, even some sought after treasures, at very affordable prices. There’s a large selection by the glass from Europe’s classic regions as well as some interesting finds from Israel, Lebanon and Greece.

Being open six days a week, Paulus is a safe bet if you want to go for a nice glass or bottle in town. Plus, there’s a large array of snacks. It is a homey, warm, unpretentious, almost student-like place that has become one of Amsterdam’s wine classics for a reason. It’s like your grandmother you visit too little, but you’re both so happy when you do.