Amsterdam is home to famous beers such as Heineken and Grolsch. These beers are known all around the world, so you can be sure that the Dutch are proud of their beers. Although most breweries have moved production outside the city of Amsterdam, once in a while a cloud of malt and hop vapors still envelops the city in its rich aroma. The Dutch are also very fond of their pilsner, a light golden lager usually served with a large head. Amsterdam residents claim their pils tastes much better if sipped through the foam. There are stronger beers, usually referred to as bokbier; most of the time these are seasonal and are made with warming spices in winter. In the summer, witte bier (white beer) like Hoegarden, are a local favorite, but it's a little too yeasty for some. You'll find it served cool with a twist of lemon.

Amsterdam Liquor Stores

Amsterdam is home to quite a few liquor stores, mostly small family run convenience stores and a chain of liquor stores called Gall & Gall.The Albert Heijn and Super de Boer grocery stores also carry beer, wine and coolers, although the selection is somewhat limited. Six packs of Heineken and Grolsch can be found for as little as 3 Euros.

Gall and Gall Liquor Stores were established in 1884 but joined the international company Ahold in 1989 to quickly become the market leader in The Netherlands' wine and spirit retail sector. You can find them on about every corner in most Amsterdam neighborhoods. Gall and Gall try's to focus on informing customers how to pair soft drinks, wines and liquors with appropriate food pairings. Gall & Gall will occasionally hold in store tasting's, and publishes a monthly magazine that includes wine of the month suggestions. The prices are competitive and the selection of brands is decent, including some fine French wines and champagnes. Gall and Gall offers three different retail formats, Wijn & Whiskey, the Slijterij (Liquor Store) and the ‘Site’. Be warned: most liquor stores close at 6-8PM. www.gall.nl